Windows 10 uses the Rundll32 process to execute 32-bit DLL (dynamic-link library) files. These files contain functions that are shared across multiple applications. However, conflicting software, improperly configured settings, or corrupted system files can cause Rundll32 to break down, hence the reason for the error. The “Rundll32 has stopped working” error has been plaguing Windows users for years, but there are several fixes that can help you get rid of it. We recommend working through the troubleshooting methods below in the order that they appear. Feel free to skip those that don’t apply.
Disable Thumbnail Previews
Disable Thumbnail Previews
Do you keep running into the “Rundll32 has stopped working” error while using File Explorer? Turning off thumbnail previews can help.
Run File and Folder Troubleshooter
Run File and Folder Troubleshooter
If File Explorer still keeps throwing out the “Rundll32 has stopped working” error message despite disabling thumbnail previews, try running the File and Folder Troubleshooter.
Update, Reinstall, or Uninstall Programs
Update, Reinstall, or Uninstall Programs
Did the issue occur after installing a particular application on your computer? For example, programs such as Nero and the K-Lite Codec Pack have a history of causing the “Rundll32 has stopped working” error. If so, try updating or reinstalling the program. In case that doesn’t work, you may want to consider removing it from your computer entirely.
Disable Services and Startup Programs
Disable Services and Startup Programs
Third-party background services and startup programs can also result in the Rundll32 error. Check if disabling these helps. You can then go through a process of elimination to figure out the exact item causing the issue.
Disable Third-Party Services – System Configuration
Disable Startup Programs – Task Manager
Roll Back Audio/Video Drivers
Roll Back Audio/Video Drivers
The “Rundll32 has stopped working” error can crop up after updating audio or video drivers. For example, drivers by Realtek, Sound Blaster, and NVIDIA can cause that in rare instances. Use the Device Manager in Windows 10 to roll them back.
Update Audio/Video Drivers
Update Audio/Video Drivers
If rolling back the audio and video drivers didn’t help (or if you couldn’t roll them back earlier), try updating them instead.
Update Windows 10
Update Windows 10
An outdated version of Windows 10 can result in all sorts of issues. If you haven’t updated your computer in a while, try doing that now.
Disable Data Execution Prevention
Disable Data Execution Prevention
Data Execution Prevention (DEP) is a Windows 10 feature that monitors and protects the system memory from malicious attacks. However, it can stop the Rundll32 process from working properly. Check if disabling DEP helps.
Scan for Malware
Scan for Malware
Malicious programs can masquerade as DLL files and end up causing “Rundll32 has stopped working” errors. Try using Windows Security to scan your computer for malware.
Run an SFC Scan
Run an SFC Scan
An SFC (System File Checker) scan allows you to detect and repair corrupted system files that prevent the Rundll32 process from running properly.
Run a DISM Scan
Run a DISM Scan
If the SFC scan failed to find and fix any issues, run a DISM (Deployment Image Servicing and Management) scan instead.
What Else Can You Do?
What Else Can You Do?
If none of the fixes above resolved the “Windows host process (Rundll32) has stopped working” error, you may want to perform a Windows 10 factory reset by heading over to Start > Settings > Update & Security > Recovery. You can choose between keeping or removing your files and programs during the reset procedure. You can also try re-installing Windows 10. There could be a deep underlying issue that only a complete reinstallation of the operating system can fix. Just remember to create a complete backup of your data beforehand.
