How to fix DSOUND.dll is missing or not found error in Windows?

Getting a “DSOUND.dll is missing” or “DSOUND.dll not found” error within Windows can be a real pain, especially when an application or a game refuses to work because of it. The problem usually occurs when some application utilizing DirectSound – which is part of Microsoft DirectX – cannot find the necessary DSOUND.dll file. If that file is missing, all processes that involve sound may cease to operate, thus disturbing your user experience.

This error commonly appears at the time of running any game or multimedia application that requires extensive audio processing. Users may also encounter the error when their system has an outdated or corrupt installation of DirectX, or if the installation is incomplete. The missing DSOUND.dll issue can also arise due to malware-related problems, faulty system configuration, or accidental removal of relevant files.

Symptoms of this problem vary in different applications but mostly include an error message at the opening of an application or trying to use it. Sometimes, the application will just crash, won't show any audio output, or won't open at all. Typical error messages include:

• The program can't start because DSOUND.dll is missing
• DSOUND.dll not found. Reinstalling the program may fix this problem

Resolving the DSOUND.dll error involves addressing the underlying cause. Often, this means restoring the missing file, repairing a corrupt DirectX installation, or ensuring your system's software and drivers are up to date. It's crucial to avoid downloading the DSOUND.dll file from untrusted websites, as these sources can expose your system to further risks.

The FortectMac Washing Machine X9 repair tool will identify system-level issues by itself and make the required repairs a quicker than any manual method.

Fix 1. Update Windows

Outdated Windows components or DirectX files are common culprits for missing DLL errors. Ensure your operating system is updated, as updates often include fixes for such issues.

• Type Updates in Windows search and hit Enter.
• If updates are available, click Install updates.
• Otherwise, click Check for updates.
• If optional updates are available, install them as well.
• When all the update processes are complete, restart your computer.

Fix 2. Update DirectX

Make sure you also run an update for DirectX:

• Visit the official Microsoft DirectX End-User Runtime Web Installer download page.
• Download the setup file to your computer.
• Once the download is complete, open the setup file.
• Follow the on-screen instructions to install the latest version of DirectX.
• Complete the installation and restart your computer.
• After restarting, launch Steam and try to run the game again.

Fix 3. Reinstall the affected application

When the error is tied to a specific program or game, reinstalling it can restore the required files.

• Type Control Panel in Windows search and press Enter.
• Select Uninstall a program under Programs section.
• Scroll down and find the app you are having the problem with.
• Right-click on it and select Uninstall.
• Follow on-screen instructions to remove the app, then reboot your device.
• Re-download the app and install it again.

Fix 4. Repair system files with SFC and DISM

Corrupt or missing system files can lead to DSOUND.dll errors. Running the System File Checker (SFC) and Deployment Image Servicing and Management (DISM) tools together can repair these issues.

• Type cmd in Windows search.
• Right-click on Command Prompt and pick Run as administrator.
• User Account Control window will show up – click Yes when prompted.
• Then, copy and paste the following command, pressing Enter after:
  sfc /scannow
• Wait till the scan is finished. If Windows finds system file integrity violations, it will attempt to fix them. After this, use the set of the following commands, pressing Enter each time:
  DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /CheckHealth
  DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /ScanHealth
  DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /RestoreHealth
• Close down the Command Prompt and restart your system.

Fix 5. Update audio drivers

Corrupt or outdated drivers for your sound hardware can disrupt DSOUND.dll functionality. Update your drivers to ensure compatibility.

• Right-click on Start and select Device Manager.
• In Device Manager, find and expand the Sound, video, and game controllers section.
• Right-click on the listed audio device (RealTek audio, Synaptics HD audio, or similar) then select Update driver.
• Select Search automatically for drivers and follow the prompts.
• Restart your computer.

Fix 6. Perform a Clean Boot

Background programs or conflicting services can interfere with DirectSound and related DLLs. A clean boot helps identify if any third-party software is causing the problem.

• Type msconfig in Windows search and press Enter.
• Go to the Services tab.
• Mark Hide all Microsoft services and select Disable all.
• Go to the Startup tab and click Open Task Manager.
• In the Task Manager, right-click on each of the items and select Disable, then close the Task Manager.
• Go to the Boot tab, tick Safe Boot, then click Apply and OK.
• If the problem is gone, re-enable services and startup items one by one to identify the problematic software.
• You can then update or uninstall software causing the game fail to start.

Fix 7. Repair DirectX

If simply updating DirectX doesn't resolve the error, repairing it may help.

• Open your browser and navigate to the official Microsoft website.
• Download Microsoft .NET Framework Repair Tool from the link provided and launch the installer.
• When the UAC window shows up, click Yes.
• Mark the I have read and accept the license terms and then click Next.
• Follow on-screen instructions to finalize the process.

Fix 8. Scan for Malware

Malware infections can corrupt or delete essential system files like DSOUND.dll so make sure your device is clean. You can use Microsoft Safety Scanner or the built-in Windows Defender:

• Type Windows Security in the Windows search bar and hit Enter.
• Select Virus & threat protection.
• Pick Scan options.
• Choose Microsoft Defender Offline scan and click Scan now.
• Your computer will immediately reboot and begin a deep scan.

Fix 9. Perform an in-place upgrade

As a last resort, performing an in-place upgrade can restore all system files without affecting your personal data. Use the Windows installation media to upgrade and repair your system.

• Visit the official Microsoft website and download Windows 10 installation media (Windows 11 version).
• Double-click the installer and select Yes when UAC shows up.
• Agree to terms.
• Select Upgrade this PC now and select Next.
• Windows will now download all the necessary files – it might take a while.
• Agree to terms once again and click Next.
• Before installing, make sure that you are happy with your choices (otherwise, you can click the Change what to keep option).
• Click Install to begin the upgrade process.

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