Computer errors, such as rundll and shell32 errors bring a smile on the face of computer maintenance professionals across the world. These errors mean money in their pockets, as most PC users are not equipped with the knowledge on how to resolve these errors and instead just call the experts.  These types of errors have the potential of causing huge information and money loss for the computer owner. In order to save time, money and important data it is therefore recommended that all computer users should have basic knowledge of resolving errors that they frequently encounter.

The DLL error is one such error that appears on computers running the Windows operating system. The name itself may sound scary to any computer user but these errors can be easily resolved once the user understands their nature and causes.

The term DLL is the short form for Dynamic Link Library. This library was created by Microsoft in order to reduce memory and hard disk space that the programs and operating system take up while running, thereby improving the overall efficiency of the computer. This was crucial in the days when the memory and hard disk space were limited. So, whenever a common process was required by multiple programs, its programming code was placed in a separate file that was referred to as DLL or Dynamic Link Library. So, instead of uploading the process separately for different programs, the operating system uploads the DLL file only once.

DLL files have been acclaimed as a good idea but like all things related to technology, it may develop problems or sometimes malfunction. Some of the reasons why a DLL error occurs are:

1. A user may unknowingly uninstall a DLL file.
2. A user may be trying to install a DLL file which is already corrupt
3. Problems in the hard drive may cause damage to a DLL file.
4. Malware infection may corrupt a DLL file.

A computer user can prevent DLL errors by following the tips given below:

1. Be careful while uninstalling a program and do not let it uninstall any DLL file before making sure that DLL file is not required by other programs on the computer.
2. Avoid installing programs unless they are absolutely required. Rampant installation of applications and programs is a common cause of DLL errors.
3. It is a good idea to first install a new program in a backup PC if it is available. This would ensure that the program is safe to install and will not cause errors.
4. Computer owners must install a good anti-virus software as well as anti-spyware. In addition to preventing viruses and other malware from entering the system, they will help prevent DLL errors.
5. A user can opt to use services of websites that offer to scan DLL errors in your computer for free. However, the user may be required to purchase the software as only scanning is free and not the repair.
6. If a user has come across the DLL error while trying to install a new program, one should uninstall the program and check to see if the error is removed. It may be a good idea to contact the manufacturer of that program for a resolution to the error.
7. Registry cleaner software are great tools that automatically prevent and remove DLL errors.  These tools save the user from the cumbersome task of manually searching for DLL errors.