Advapi32 is one of the DLL files installed with the Windows Application Programming Interface (API) to load specific programs. It works in executing Advanced Windows32 core APIs with various common controls in the DLL library. Being a component that works with multiple programs, this file has a high tendency of encountering errors due to being corrupted or after uninstalling programs.
WM note: advapi32.dll (Advance Application Program Interface 32-bit Dynamic Link Library) is a required part of the Windows Operating System and is used by many programs to provide security for the system and to make registry calls.
Fortunately, resolving these issues is easy through numerous workarounds like the following:
Knowing the Probable Causes
DLL-related issues like the advapi32 process idle tasks can have numerous causes. Users won't usually know the reason, but it's probably caused by installing new but incompatible programs or hardware. Since the newly installed components are incompatible, there's a high chance that the installation process corrupted or deleted the file. Uninstalling hardware and software may also cause these errors, especially if users uninstalled the components using certain uninstaller programs that delete registry entries.
Understanding the possible causes of these errors is crucial because doing so would enable you to troubleshoot the problem more efficiently and determine the best courses of action in no time.
Restore Computer at an Earlier State
In case uninstalling or reinstalling hardware and software doesn't solve the issue, the next best step is to restore your computer's settings to its previous state using System Restore. This means undoing changes that probably caused advapi32 related errors.
Accessing System Restore is different depending on the operating system. In XP, this tool can be found under System Tools, but can be accesses easily by clicking Run and typing "rstrui.exe" on the dialog box. Rstrui.exe is the executable file that loads System Restore.
The process is easier in fixing the errors in Windows 7 considering its design. Its Start Menu has a text box where you can search for the program. Type System Restore and click to load the utility.
Once on the program, choose a restore point before making changes in the computer. Wait for the program to do its job and if the errors are brought by changes you made to your system after the specified restoration points, it will fix the issue.
Download advapi32 from the Developer's Website
Restore points may be unavailable in System Restore, but repairing is still possible by replacing the original file. Search for "Advapi32" file on its developer's website and download to replace the original file. Also, verify the folder where you would need to place the replacement file.
Update Operating System and Drivers
Operating system updates come with numerous new components including bug fixes. These fixes include solutions for DLL issues often experienced by users. Experts recommend installing these updates to enhance system protection and instant fixes for various problems.
OS updates for Windows come in two types. First is by installing Windows Updates, which you can configure to install automatically or select the updates you prefer to install. Look for these updates and install them to enhance your computer's configuration.
Another way is by installing newer service packs like in the case of Windows XP. Installing updated OS essentials included in service packs can resolve inconsistencies with the DLL file.
Scan for Malware
Malware can delete files on its own, which will lead to DLL errors. Run a deep scan using a full antivirus program to clear your hard drive for possible malwares lurking in the system and affecting the registry. Clean and remove detected threats and replace a copy of the dll file obtained from its developer.
Reinstall the Operating System
At the end of the day, many of these procedures may not solve the problem and will require you to reformat hard drive then reinstall the operating system. Formatting process is faster in Windows 7 and Windows 8, which will completely erase the possible advapi32 errors' causes. For Windows XP users, be sure to settle with the slower formatting procedure than Quick Format to deeply clean your hard drive from these inconsistencies.
Reinstall the OS and it should solve the problem and keep the computer from showing these DLL inconsistencies.
Check for Possibilities of Hardware Problems
If errors still occur after reinstalling your OS, there's a high chance that the problem lies on a failing hard drive. Most of the time, files installed in bad sectors or chunks tend to not work properly. The best way to troubleshoot hardware issue is by using a different hard drive. Reinstall the OS in the new drive then install the program that triggers the issue. If the error didn't display, there's a high chance that your hard drive is starting to fail. Scan your drive for bad sectors and take this as an opportunity to replace your drive before more serious problems occur.
Solving error messages related to advapi32 is all about knowing the causes and proper repair procedures. Follow these procedures upon encountering these error messages and back up your files in case OS reinstallation is necessary.
If you are looking for a free disk cleaner to restore missing corrupted files, you can download for free on DLL Tool
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