How to Force Close a Dll

A dynamic link library, or DLL, is a collection of smaller applications that can be called by an executable, or .exe, file. Occasionally, a DLL does not close properly, and some DLLs may also contain malicious code such as malware or viruses. To force close a DLL that is not closing normally, use the Windows Task Manager utility that's available in all versions of the Microsoft Windows operating system.

Instructions

1. • 1
     Right-click on the Windows task-bar to launch the context menu.
   • 2
     Click the "Task Manager" option from the context menu. The Windows Task Manager utility opens.
   • 3
     Click the tab labeled "Processes." All running processes are listed.
   • 4
     Locate and click on the DLL that is not closing normally.
   • 5
     Click the "End Process" button at the bottom of the window. The DLL process is shut down and the DLL is closed.