Are you encountering the frustrating “LoadLibrary failed with error 126” message on your Windows system? This error typically occurs when a program or application is unable to load a dynamic link library (DLL) due to missing or corrupted files. While it can be vexing, fear not! There are several methods you can try to resolve this issue and get your system back to working order. In this blog post, we’ll explore seven effective solutions to tackle this problem head-on.
- Update Graphics Drivers
One common cause of the “LoadLibrary failed with error 126” is outdated or faulty graphics drivers. To fix this, navigate to the website of your graphics card manufacturer (NVIDIA, AMD, Intel, etc.) and download the latest drivers compatible with your system. Install them and restart your computer to see if the error persists. - Run System File Checker (SFC)
Windows includes a built-in tool called System File Checker that scans and repairs corrupted system files. To use it, open Command Prompt as an administrator and type the following command:sfc /scannow
Press Enter and let the scan complete. If any corrupted files are found, SFC will attempt to repair them automatically. - Perform a System Restore
If the error started occurring recently, performing a system restore to a point before the issue began might resolve it. To do this, type “system restore” in the Windows search bar and select “Create a restore point.” In the System Properties window, click on “System Restore” and follow the on-screen instructions to revert your system to a previous state. - Check for Windows Updates
Microsoft frequently releases updates to address various system issues, including DLL errors. Make sure your Windows operating system is up-to-date by going to Settings > Update & Security > Windows Update, and clicking on “Check for updates.” Install any available updates and restart your computer. - Reinstall the Problematic Program
If the error occurs only when running a specific program, try reinstalling it. Uninstall the program from your system, restart your computer, and then reinstall it from the original installation source or download a fresh copy from the official website. - Scan for Malware
Malware infections can sometimes corrupt system files, leading to DLL errors. Run a thorough scan of your system using a reputable antivirus or antimalware software. Quarantine or remove any detected threats and restart your computer. - Perform a Clean Boot
A clean boot starts Windows with minimal drivers and startup programs, which can help identify if a third-party application is causing the “LoadLibrary failed with error 126” message. To perform a clean boot, type “msconfig” in the Windows search bar and open the System Configuration utility. Go to the Services tab, check the box next to “Hide all Microsoft services,” then click “Disable all.” Next, navigate to the Startup tab and click “Open Task Manager.” Disable all startup items, close Task Manager, and restart your computer.
After trying these solutions, the “LoadLibrary failed with error 126” issue should hopefully be resolved on your Windows system. If the problem persists, you may need to seek further assistance from a professional or consult online technical forums for additional guidance. Remember to always back up your important files before making any significant changes to your system.