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Computers 101

Q:
What are DLL files?

A:
I've been getting this question a lot lately, so:

DLL files (Dynamic Link Library), are basically "support" files for some types of software. They are generally (but not always) found in your Windows System directory.

They work like this. Let's say a program needs to perform an operation. Rather than all the coding being built into the program, it uses a particular DLL file that, with a simple call, can perform the operation for it. Saves lots of programming time, especially since many of the common DLL files are installed with Windows.

I've also had lots of people ask about deleting these files. Well, the best advice is not to, since many of your DLL files are used by more than one program. Going through and deleting the ones you *think* aren't being used anymore is a lot like getting under the hood of your car and yanking wires that don't look important.

If you're really concerned about stray DLL files, make sure you run uninstall programs. Most programs include an uninstall program that will (should) take out all the extra DLLs.

Most of the time if you hit the Start button, Programs, then go to the program's listing, you'll find an uninstall program. You can also click the Start button, Settings, Control Panel, and open the Add/ Remove programs icon. A screen will pop up that uninstalls the software for you (again, it's not foolproof, but it's better than playing guessing games with your DLLs).

Tip of the Day

E-mail Folders

Web link - http://www.worldstart.com/tips/emailfolders.htm

Amanda's Cool Site of the Day

Kaleidoscope Painter

Ever want to be an artist? Well this is a neat little site that lets you do just that. Wait for the applet to load and then drag your mouse along the applet, and you can even change brush sizes as you are creating your masterpiece. This can provide hours of fun, I know cause I got distracted by playing with it. Definitely worth checking out and tons of fun.

http://www.permadi.com/java/spaint/spaint.html

Do you have a cool site that you want to share? Send it to Amanda! Here's her address:

amanda@worldstart.com

Oh, and we're looking for non-commercial sites. We generally don't run sites that are strictly for shopping.