How to Edit DLL Files

Preparing to Edit a DLL

1. Understand where to find DLL files. DLL files—which are binary files used by Windows in order to perform basic tasks—are usually found deep within your computer's system folders. Because of this, it's usually a good idea not to mess with them; if you're positive you want to edit a DLL file, though, you may have to unhide your computer's hidden folders and files.

   1. You'll typically find DLL files in the C:WindowsSystem32 path, which can be found by opening This PC, double-clicking your hard drive, double-clicking the "Windows" folder, and double-clicking the "System32" folder.
   2. If you want to edit the DLL files for a specific program (typically a program you installed yourself), you'll usually find the pertinent files in the installation folder.

2. Open File Explorer

   . Click the File Explorer app icon, which resembles a yellow and blue folder, in your computer's taskbar. A pop-up window will appear.

   1. You can also press ⊞ Win+E to open the File Explorer.

3. Click View. It's a tab at the top of the File Explorer window. You should see a toolbar appear at the top of the window.

4. Check the "Hidden items" box. This box is in the "Show/hide" section of the toolbar. Placing a checkmark in this box ensures that your computer will show hidden files and folders.

   1. You can exit File Explorer at this point.

5. Consider making a copy of the DLL. Since DLL files are often crucial to the performance of your computer or a specific program,

   1. Find the DLL you want to edit and click it once.
   2. Press Ctrl+C to copy the DLL.
   3. Go to your desktop or a similarly easy-to-access folder.
   4. Press Ctrl+V to paste the copied DLL here.