When Windows displays the message “OpenHardwareMonitorLib.dll Not Found”, it can prevent certain programs—especially hardware monitoring, gaming, or system utility applications—from launching properly. This issue typically appears when the required DLL file is missing, corrupted, or blocked by the system. Fortunately, the problem can usually be resolved with a few targeted troubleshooting steps. Understanding what causes the error and how to fix it helps restore stability and prevents it from happening again.
TL;DR: The “OpenHardwareMonitorLib.dll Not Found” error usually occurs because the DLL file is missing, corrupted, or blocked by antivirus software. Reinstalling the affected program, restoring the file from quarantine, or running system repair tools often resolves the issue. Avoid downloading DLL files from random websites, as this can introduce security risks. Following structured troubleshooting steps ensures a safe and long-term fix.
What Is OpenHardwareMonitorLib.dll?
OpenHardwareMonitorLib.dll is a dynamic link library file associated with Open Hardware Monitor, an open-source tool used to monitor system temperature, voltage, fan speeds, and hardware load. Many third-party applications integrate this library to access real-time hardware data.
DLL (Dynamic Link Library) files store shared code and resources that multiple programs can use. If Windows cannot locate the DLL file or if it is damaged, applications that rely on it will fail to launch and display error messages such as:
- OpenHardwareMonitorLib.dll is missing
- The program can’t start because OpenHardwareMonitorLib.dll is missing from your computer
- Error loading OpenHardwareMonitorLib.dll
Common Causes of the Error
Before applying a fix, it is important to understand why the error occurs. The most common causes include:
- Accidental deletion of the DLL file.
- Corruption due to improper shutdowns or disk errors.
- Antivirus quarantine mistakenly flagging the file as suspicious.
- Incomplete software installation.
- Outdated or incompatible software versions.
Identifying the root cause can help determine the most effective solution.
How to Fix OpenHardwareMonitorLib.dll Not Found
1. Reinstall the Affected Application
The simplest and most reliable fix is to reinstall the program that triggered the error. Reinstallation replaces missing or corrupted files, including the required DLL.
- Press Win + R, type appwiz.cpl, and press Enter.
- Locate the affected software in the list.
- Click Uninstall and follow the prompts.
- Restart the computer.
- Download the latest official version of the software and reinstall it.
This method ensures that the correct version of OpenHardwareMonitorLib.dll is restored.
2. Restore the DLL from Antivirus Quarantine
Sometimes antivirus programs mistakenly identify DLL files as threats and move them to quarantine. To check:
- Open your antivirus or Windows Security.
- Navigate to Protection History or Quarantine.
- Look for OpenHardwareMonitorLib.dll.
- Restore the file if it was quarantined.
- Add an exception for the program if necessary.
Be cautious and confirm the file came from a legitimate software source before restoring it.
3. Run System File Checker (SFC)
System file corruption can trigger DLL errors. Windows includes a built-in tool to repair damaged system files.
- Type cmd in the Windows search bar.
- Right-click Command Prompt and select Run as administrator.
- Type the following command and press Enter:
sfc /scannow
Wait for the scan to complete. If corrupted files are found, Windows will attempt to repair them automatically.
4. Run DISM Tool
If SFC does not resolve the issue, the DISM (Deployment Image Servicing and Management) tool may help.
- Open Command Prompt as administrator.
- Enter the following commands one by one:
DISM /Online /Cleanup Image /RestoreHealth
After completion, restart the computer and check if the error persists.
5. Check the Recycle Bin
If the file was accidentally deleted, it might still be in the Recycle Bin.
- Open the Recycle Bin.
- Search for OpenHardwareMonitorLib.dll.
- If found, right-click and select Restore.
This restores the file to its original location.
6. Update Windows
Outdated system components can create compatibility problems.
- Open Settings.
- Click Windows Update.
- Select Check for updates.
- Install available updates and restart the PC.
Keeping Windows updated ensures compatibility with newer software libraries.
7. Avoid Downloading DLL Files from Random Websites
While it may be tempting to download OpenHardwareMonitorLib.dll from a third-party DLL website, this practice is risky. Such files may:
- Contain malware or malicious code.
- Be outdated or incompatible.
- Cause further system instability.
It is always safer to reinstall the original software instead of downloading standalone DLL files.
8. Manually Register the DLL (Advanced Users)
In rare cases, the DLL file exists but is not properly registered.
- Open Command Prompt as administrator.
- Navigate to the directory containing the DLL file.
- Type:
regsvr32 OpenHardwareMonitorLib.dll
If successful, a confirmation message will appear.
9. Perform a System Restore
If the error started appearing recently, restoring the system to a previous point may help.
- Search for Create a restore point.
- Click System Restore.
- Choose a restore point from before the issue began.
- Follow on-screen instructions.
This reverts system settings without affecting personal files.
Preventing Future DLL Errors
Prevention is often easier than troubleshooting. To minimize the risk of DLL errors:
- Keep software updated.
- Run regular malware scans.
- Avoid unsafe downloads.
- Shut down Windows properly.
- Maintain disk health using built-in tools like CHKDSK.
Regular maintenance ensures system stability and reduces unexpected interruptions.
When to Seek Professional Help
If none of the solutions above resolve the problem, deeper system corruption or hardware failure could be involved. In such cases, consulting an IT professional or performing a clean Windows installation may be necessary.
Persistent DLL errors should not be ignored, as they may signal underlying operating system issues.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. Is OpenHardwareMonitorLib.dll a virus?
No, OpenHardwareMonitorLib.dll is a legitimate file used by hardware monitoring applications. However, malicious software can disguise itself using similar file names. Always verify the source of the file.
2. Can I download OpenHardwareMonitorLib.dll separately?
While it is technically possible, it is not recommended. Downloading DLL files from unofficial sources can introduce malware or compatibility problems. Reinstalling the associated software is safer.
3. Why does my antivirus delete the DLL file?
Some antivirus programs may produce false positives and flag the file as suspicious. Reviewing quarantine settings can clarify whether it was removed automatically.
4. Will updating Windows fix the error?
In some cases, yes. Windows updates can resolve compatibility issues and repair corrupted system components that may be causing the DLL error.
5. Does System Restore delete my personal files?
No, System Restore does not remove personal documents. It only reverts system files, installed programs, and settings to a previous state.
6. What if the error appears after installing new software?
The new program may have overwritten or conflicted with the existing DLL. Uninstalling or reinstalling that software typically resolves the issue.
7. Can hardware problems cause this DLL error?
Rarely, yes. Failing storage drives can corrupt files, including DLL libraries. Running disk diagnostics can help identify such issues.
By systematically applying the solutions outlined above, most users can resolve the “OpenHardwareMonitorLib.dll Not Found” error quickly and safely. Careful maintenance practices and safe software installation habits significantly reduce the chances of encountering similar problems in the future.