The program can't start because d3dcompiler_43.dll is missing from your computer

Missing DLL Files: A Comprehensive Guide

DLL (Dynamic Link Library) files are essential components of Windows operating systems. They contain various functions and data that can be used by multiple programs, thus reducing the overall size of individual applications.

However, sometimes these crucial files may go missing from your computer's system folder or registry due to various reasons such as:

1. Corrupt or damaged DLLs

2. Malware infections (viruses, Trojan horses)

3. Accidental deletion during software removal processes

4. Registry errors caused by improper program installations/uninstallations

If you encounter an error message like 'the program can't start because 'DLL name'.dll is missing from your computer,' don't panic! This article will walk you through some effective troubleshooting steps to resolve this issue and get your programs running smoothly again.

Why are DLL Files Important?

Before diving into the solutions, let's quickly understand why these files are so vital:

1. Program Functionality: Many Windows applications rely on specific DLLs to function correctly. If one or more of these essential libraries are missing, you may encounter various errors and problems when trying to launch certain programs.

2. System Stability: Missing or corrupted DLLs can lead to system crashes, Blue Screen Of Death (BSOD) errors, and other stability issues if left unaddressed for an extended period.

Common Causes of Missing DLL Errors

To effectively address this problem, it's essential first to identify the root cause:

1. Corrupted System Files: Sometimes, critical Windows components like .dll files can become damaged or corrupted due to hard drive errors, power failures during system shutdowns/starts etc., leading them unable for use by applications requiring their presence at runtime whereupon users will see message saying 'the 'application name' has stopped working.'

Troubleshooting Steps

Now that we've covered the importance of DLL files and some common causes behind missing .dll errors, let's move onto practical solutions:

### Step 1: Run System File Checker (SFC)

The first thing to try when faced with a 'missing .dll' error is running Windows' built-in System File Checker tool. This utility will scan your system for any corrupt or damaged files and replace them if necessary.

1. Press the Windows + X keys on your keyboard.

2. From the menu, select File Explorer (or simply type 'file explorer' in the search bar).

3. In File Explorer, navigate to: `C:\Program Files` or `C:\ProgramData`

4. Look for a folder with an underscore '_' followed by 'Microsoft' and then your operating system's version number (e.g., '_x86_64').

5. Inside this directory, double-click on cmd.exe.

6. In the Command Prompt window that opens, type: `sfc /scannow` and press Enter.

### Step 2: Run Disk Cleanup

If running SFC didn't resolve your issue, try performing a disk cleanup to remove any temporary files and system items you no longer need:

1. Press Windows + R on your keyboard.

2. In the RUN dialog box, type `cleanmgr` and press Enter.

3. Follow the prompts in the Disk Cleanup wizard to select which files and folders you want to delete.

### Step 3: Use a Registry Cleaner

Sometimes, registry errors can cause DLL-related issues:

1. Download and install CCleaner from its official website (free version).

2. Launch CCleaner and navigate to Registry > Malware & Fix.

3. Select all options under ' Malware' and click Fix All'.

### Step 4: Update Your Graphics Drivers

Outdated graphics drivers can also lead to missing .dll errors:

1. Press the Windows + X keys on your keyboard again.

2. From the menu, select Device Manager (or type 'device manager' in Search).

3. Expand 'Display Adapters' and double-click on your graphic card driver entry.

### Step 5: Roll Back or Reinstall Graphics Drivers

If none of the above steps resolve your issue:

1. In Device Manager, right-click on your graphics card driver.

2. From the context menu, select Properties.

3. Click on the Driver Tab and then choose either 'Roll Back Driver' (if available) or click on 'Uninstall device & restart my computer now'.

### Step 6: Perform a System Restore

If all else fails:

1. Press Windows + R again to open RUN.

2. In the dialog box, type `rstrui.exe` and press Enter.

From here, follow the prompts in the System Restore wizard to restore your system to an earlier point when you know .dll files were present without any errors.

Missing DLL files can be a frustrating experience for Windows users. By following these step-by-step instructions and troubleshooting guides outlined above, you should be able to identify and resolve common causes behind 'the program can't start because 'DLL name'.dll is missing from your computer' error messages once and for all!

The program can't start because d3dcompiler_43.dll is missing from your computer