When Windows loads a program or runs a system-level task it makes use of Ole32.dll, a core system library. It is responsible for the working of Object Linking and Embedding (OLE), a Microsoft technology that enables Windows to copy and paste across different apps, perform drag-and-drop operations & app embedding features.
When the Ole32.dll file goes missing, gets corrupted, or becomes unreadable, the OS fails to maintain proper connection between different apps and shows error message: Ole32.dll missing or not found. The purpose of this blog is to uncover the causes behind this error and provide you with suitable fixes.
Why is Ole32.dll Important for Windows?
To get an idea of Ole32.dll, you first need to understand two basic technologies that moderate how Windows handles everyday tasks: Object Linking and Embedding (OLE) and Component Object Model (COM).
OLE allows one program to place live content from another program within a document. COM on the other hand, handles how different software components interact with each other, request actions, and share data. Ole32.dll sits in the middle and makes this communication possible.
What Triggers the Ole32.dll Missing Error on Windows?
From what we have seen and read on various debugging forums, some common reasons behind the Ole32.dll missing or not found error are:
- Missing or corrupted DLL files
- Incomplete or failed Windows update
- Presence of bad sectors on the storage drive
- Presence of malware or other malicious software
- Windows registry corruption
How Do I Fix Ole32.dll Not Found on My PC?
Sometimes Windows is unable to load a library during startup, especially after sudden power loss or an incomplete update. A simple restart can fix this. Some users have had experiences where Ole32.dll warnings disappeared soon after a clean reboot.
1. Run SFC and DISM
The SFC or DISM commands repair missing or corrupted system files, including Ole32.dll.
- Type CMD in the search bar.
- Click Run as administrator.
- Now execute the following commands one after another:
- sfc /scannow
- DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /ScanHealth
- DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /RestoreHealth
2. Undo Recent Changes
When you run into a low-level crash on Windows, first notice what changed right before the problem began. A new driver installation or update can cause sudden instability.
- Open Device Manager.
- Right-click the driver you want to roll back and click Properties.
- Go to Driver tab and hit Roll Back Driver.
- Click OK to confirm.
- Update outdated drivers using the same method.
To roll back the last Windows update:
- Go to Windows Update.
- Click Update History and select Uninstall updates.
3. Scan Your PC for Virus or Malware
The Ole32.dll error can also occur if a virus or malware corrupts, modifies or replaces the DLL files on your PC. Scan your computer for these threats and eliminate them.
- Press Win + S and launch for Windows Security.
- Click Virus & threat protection > Scan options.
- Click Windows Defender Offline Scan > Scan Now.
Let the process complete. The Windows Defender will scan your computer for existing threats.
4. Check for Disk Errors
As stated above, disk errors due to improper shutdowns, or wear and tear can also lead you to run into the Ole32.dll error on your Windows PC. Use the Windows built-in utility: CHKDSK command. It will scan your drive for errors and automatically fix them.
- Search for Command Prompt and hit Run as Administrator.
- Type chkdsk and press Enter.
- If the scan detects drive errors: type chkdsk /r in the Command Prompt and press Enter. It will repair and recover damaged hard drive sectors.
5. Restore Your PC
If you’re not sure about what actually caused the Ole32.dll missing or not found issue, restore Windows to a previous state before the DLL corruption happened.
- Search for Create a restore point and open it.
- A System Properties dialog box will appear.
- Under the System Protection tab, click System Restore.
- Choose a restore point before the Ole32.dll missing or not found error and click Next.
- Confirm the restore point by clicking Finish and you’re good to go.
Recover Data After the Ole32.dll Missing or Not Found Error
If your PC refuses to boot after the Ole32.dll error or you notice signs of disk corruption, securing your files becomes utmost important. This is where a Windows data recovery software – Stellar Data Recovery Standard can help. It scans corrupt, inaccessible, or damaged partitions and recovers your files with ease, even when Windows fails to boot.
Wrapping Up
Ole32.dll error often looks alarming but it can very well be fixed. With proper troubleshooting – checking and repairing file corruption, disk errors, reinstalling problematic drivers & updates, and getting rid of malware – you can regain access to your PC in no time. When crashes recur, or your drive begins to slow down, take those signs seriously and secure your data beforehand.
