How to Fix shlwapi.dll Missing Error – Step by Step

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How to Fix shlwapi.dll Missing Error (Solved)

How to Fix shlwapi.dll Missing Error (Solved)

What is shlwapi.dll?

shlwapi.dll or Shortcut Property Handler Library is a Dynamic Link Library (DLL) file that provides various functions to the applications running on Microsoft Windows operating systems. This essential system file helps manage shortcuts and handles certain operations like URL parsing path manipulation and other utility tasks.

Why is shlwapi.dll missing?

The shlwapi.dll file may become missing due to several reasons: accidental deletion during system maintenance malware infection that corrupts or removes essential files or incomplete installation of software that relies on this DLL.

Step-by-Step Fixes:

Method 1: Reinstall Visual C++ Redistributable

Many applications rely on the Visual C++ Redistributable packages to run correctly. Since shlwapi.dll is also a part of these packages reinstalling them could help resolve the issue:

  1. Visit the official Microsoft Download Center (Link)
  2. Download the latest version of Visual C++ Redistributable for your system (x86 or x64).
  3. Run the downloaded installer and follow the on-screen instructions to complete the installation.

Method 2: Run SFC /scannow command

The System File Checker (SFC) is a built-in Windows utility that scans for missing or corrupted system files and attempts to repair them:

  1. Open Command Prompt as an administrator. To do so search for “Command Prompt” in the Start menu right-click on it and select “Run as administrator”.
  2. Type the following command and press Enter:
    3. sfc /scannow
  3. Wait for the scanning process to complete. This might take several minutes.

Method 3: Update System Drivers

Updating system drivers can help resolve any compatibility issues that may be causing the shlwapi.dll error:

  1. Press Windows key + X and select “Device Manager” from the menu.
  2. Expand the categories in the Device Manager and locate your system’s drivers.
  3. Right-click on a driver select “Update driver” and choose “Search automatically for updated driver software”.
  4. Follow the on-screen instructions to update all the drivers one by one or use third-party tools like Driver Easy (Link)

Conclusion

When encountering a shlwapi.dll missing error try the above-mentioned solutions to resolve the issue quickly and efficiently. Regular system maintenance such as updating drivers and installing Windows updates can help prevent similar problems from happening in the future.

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