Tips & Tricks

Computing Terms

DLL Files -

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).

Great Deals Just For You!