Excel is a very popular & useful application of Microsoft Office. Similarly, DLL is essential in the Windows Operating system. DLL files play a vital role as they include multiple codes and the procedures that are used for Windows programs. This allows Excel or other programs to use its relevant data at the same time. But sometimes, you may experience an error in loading DLL Excel when trying to access the MS Excel application.

In this blog, I will explore the details of this error, its causes, and most significantly how to fix it effortlessly.
To fix corrupt Excel file, we recommend this tool:
This software will prevent Excel workbook data such as BI data, financial reports & other analytical information from corruption and data loss. With this software you can rebuild corrupt Excel files and restore every single visual representation & dataset to its original, intact state in 3 easy steps:
- Try Excel File Repair Tool rated Excellent by Softpedia, Softonic & CNET.
- Select the corrupt Excel file (XLS, XLSX) & click Repair to initiate the repair process.
- Preview the repaired files and click Save File to save the files at desired location.
What Is DLL File And the Purpose Of Using It?
DLL stands for dynamic link library this file is used for keeping several procedures and codes for the Windows programs. You can consider this file as an essential part of Windows OS.
When any Windows OS version gets installed along with that massive numbers DLL files also automatically get loaded. After this, DLL files are being used by other application programs.
All these DLL files are counted as integral parts of the system’s Windows registry. There are some DLL files available that are specifically used by the programs that install them. Whereas, some DLL files are merged with Windows OS for easy sharing with other applications. These DLL files contain data and functions are used by different applications programs to work smoothly.
It takes up very little space in your PC memory. Though DLL files have so many benefits it has several setbacks too.
Why Do DLL Errors Occur?
Usually, runtime error 48 error in loading DLL Excel arises when due to the installation of any software the new DLL files overwrite the previously existing DLL file.
Apart from this, many other reasons can lead to this problem including:
- In the specified path location DLL file is missing.
- At the installation time, some DLL files are skipped.
- Hardware damage leads to DLL file damages.
- Presence of some orphan keys within the registry.
- DLL files are potentially damaged because of spyware infection.
How to Fix Error in Loading DLL Excel?
Resolving DLL errors in Excel requires a systematic approach. Here are some effective strategies to fix such situations:
1# Restore Missing DLL Files
It might happen due to the missing DLL file users are facing issues while opening Excel files. So here it is recommended to go into tools menu in the VBA environment > check if anything DLL is missing.
If it says DLL is missing then it is missing and tries to restore it. Check in the Recycle Bin or download it from the manufacturer’s website.
Also Read: Fix Error Loading Excel Solver Add-In
2# Copy DLL Files from the Working Computer
Here is also a trick to resolve error in loading DLL VBA. Try copying the DLL file from the working computers to the non-working computers and after that choose it in the references.
3# Program Reinstallation
If after following the above-given fixes still getting the error in Excel, it is suggested to reinstall the Excel program which is showing the error message.
So first uninstall the program and after that reinstall the program again. Also make sure that the program is sharing DLL files with any other program or not. if it did so, they avoid reinstalling the program.
4# Repair And Clear The Registry
When the DLL error appears, the Windows registry also changes at the same time. The Window registry registers every action that occurs in the system, cleaning the Window registry helps to fix the error. But before following the process it is recommended to backup the data carefully.
You can make use of the Registry Repair Tool; this is the best utility to repair damaged, corrupted, and other errors in registry entries. Apart from that the DLL error always comes with data loss or data inaccessibility. So it is important to fix the error as soon as possible.
5# System Restore
- Start your PC in the safe mode. Press the F8 key when your PC is booting and choose the safe mode option.
- Try to open the Command Prompt, and hit the Windows +R key simultaneously. After that type the following text “rstrui.exe” into the Command prompt and hit the enter button.

- This will open the Windows System Restore wizard from which you have to click the “Next” option to proceed further.
- After that choose the date up to which you need to restore your data. Check the box present next to “Show more restore points” to see the list of older restore points. Choose the restore points previous to the point of time when DLL error begins and hit the “Next” button.

- To confirm the chosen restore point you have to hit the “Finish” button.

- Log in back to your PC Windows normally.
Also Read: Excel This Value Doesn’t Match The Data Validation Error
FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)
Can I Manually Replace a Missing DLL File in MS Excel?
Yes, you can replace a missing DLL file in Excel. However, it is not recommended to do so as it can lead to further issues.
How to Fix Missing or Corrupted DLL Files?
To fix missing or corrupted DLL files in the operating system, try these tips:
- Reboot PC.
- Check your Recycle Bin Folder.
- Use the System Restore.
- Run SFC or DISM Scan.
- Reinstall the Software.
Why Does MS Excel Display DLL Errors After a Software Update?
Updating Excel software can inadvertently introduce compatibility problems or overwrite critical DLL files, resulting in DLL errors.
How to Check If DLL Is Corrupted?
By running the Windows in-built SFC (System File Checker), you can identify the lost or corrupted files within your operating system.
Final Thoughts
In conclusion, DLL errors in Excel can be disruptive but are handled with the right solution. However, by understanding the common causes and applying the effective methods mentioned in this blog, you can resolve runtime error 48 error in loading DLL Excel and prevent future occurrences.
Please Note– Timely resolution & defensive measures are key to maintaining efficiency and minimizing interruptions in Excel usage.
