Fix shell32.dll Error - Explorer crash
Experiencing Windows Explorer keeps crashing related to shell32.dll? Here's how to fix it.
Table of Contents
About shell32.dll
Stopped by Fix shell32.dll Error - Explorer crash? We will walk you through the solution.
Solution 1: Install Visual C++ Redistributables
Most DLL errors are caused by missing Visual C++ runtime files.
### Downloads
- Visual C++ 2015-2022 x64 - Visual C++ 2015-2022 x86
### Steps
Step 1: Download both x64 and x86 versions
Step 2: Run the x64 installer first
Step 3: Run the x86 installer
Step 4: Restart your computer
Step 5: Try the application again
Solution 2: Install DirectX Runtime
For games and multimedia applications, DirectX is often required.
### Download
### Steps
Step 1: Download the DirectX installer
Step 2: Run the installer as Administrator
Step 3: Follow the installation wizard
Step 4: Restart your computer
Solution 3: Repair System Files
Use Windows built-in tools to repair corrupted system files.
### Run System File Checker
Open Command Prompt as Administrator:
``batch
sfc /scannow
`
Wait for the scan to complete.
### Run DISM Repair
If SFC found issues:
`batch
DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /RestoreHealth
``
Restart your computer after both commands complete.
Solution 4: Reinstall the Application
A clean reinstall often resolves DLL issues:
Step 1: Open Settings �?Apps �?Installed apps
Step 2: Find and uninstall the affected application
Step 3: Restart your computer
Step 4: Download a fresh installer from the official website
Step 5: Install the application
### Preventing Future Issues
1. Keep Windows Updated: Regular updates patch known issues 2. Use Official Sources: Only download software from trusted websites 3. Maintain Runtime Libraries: Keep Visual C++ and DirectX current 4. Create System Restore Points: Before installing new software 5. Run Regular Maintenance: Use built-in Windows tools monthly
### Advanced Troubleshooting
If basic solutions don't work:
``batch
:: Run these commands in Administrator Command Prompt
DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /CheckHealth
DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /ScanHealth
DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /RestoreHealth
sfc /scannow
``
These commands repair Windows system image and scan for corrupted files.