How to fix
Urlmon.dll missing or not found error
on Windows

Hello. I keep receiving an error message that says Urlmon.dll is missing in Windows when I try to open certain applications. How do I fix this?

The Urlmon.dll missing or not found error is a common problem for Windows users. When the Urlmon.dll file is corrupted, missing, or damaged, this error occurs. Urlmon.dll is a Windows Dynamic Link Library (DLL)[ref en-1] file that contains functions and codes used by programs to access internet protocols such as FTP, HTTP, and HTTPS. These are required for programs to communicate with the internet and access web resources.

DLL files are important in general because they allow programs to share the same codes and functions, reducing program size and increasing program efficiency. DLL files also make program updates and maintenance easier because shared code can be updated once and automatically reflected in all programs that use it.

The Urlmon.dll missing or not found error can prevent users from accessing the internet or specific web resources, as well as crashing or failing to launch programs. This error can also pose a security risk because it allows malicious software to take advantage of vulnerabilities in the affected system.

Possible solutions to this issue include reinstalling the affected program, running a system file checker to repair missing or damaged system files, and registering the Urlmon.dll file using the Command Prompt.

In this guide, you will find 6 steps that should help you fix Urlmon.dll missing or not found error in Windows. You can also try using a maintenance tool like [d1] that can fix most system errors, BSODs,[ref en-2] corrupted files, and registry[ref en-3] issues. Otherwise, follow the step-by-step instructions provided below.

Solution 1. Install Windows Updates

• Press the Windows key + R to open the Run box
• Type ms-settings:windowsupdate in the text box and press Enter
• Click the Check for updates button

• If a new update is available, click the Download & Install all button.
• Restart your computer after the process is finished and check to see if the problem is fixed

Solution 2. Fix Corrupted System Files

Use Command Prompt commands to repair system file corruption:

• Open Command Prompt as administrator
• Use the following command and press Enter:
  sfc /scannow

• Reboot your system
• If SFC returned an error, then use the following command lines, pressing Enter after each:
  DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /CheckHealth
  DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /ScanHealth
  DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /RestoreHealth

Solution 3. Perform a Malware Scan

It is possible that a malware infection may be the cause of Urlmon.dll missing or not found error in Windows. It is important to run a comprehensive security scan to rule out this possibility and ensure that the computer is not infected. This can help to prevent further issues with the Windows operating system and ensure that it is functioning properly.

If you have access to a security scanner, or if your organization pays for one, you can use it to scan your entire system to check for a virus infection. Otherwise, you can use Windows Defender to scan your system:

• Click on the Windows Start menu or press the Windows key on your keyboard
• Type Microsoft Defender in the search bar and click on Microsoft Defender Antivirus to open the application
• Click on the Virus & threat protection option in the left-hand menu
• Click on the Quick scan or Full scan option, depending on your preference

• If you choose Quick scan, Microsoft Defender Antivirus will scan the most vulnerable and commonly infected areas of your computer
• If you choose Full scan, Microsoft Defender Antivirus will scan your entire computer, including all files, folders, and programs
• Click on the Scan now button to start the selected scan type and wait for the scan to complete
• The time it takes will depend on the size of your hard drive and the number of files being scanned
• Once the scan is complete, you will be informed of any detected threats, and you can choose to quarantine or remove them
• If no threats are found, Microsoft Defender Antivirus will inform you that your device is secure

Solution 4. Re-register Urlmon.dll

• Right-click on the Start button.
• Click on the Command Prompt (Admin) option.
• The Command Prompt window will appear.
• Type regsvr32 urlmon.dll and hit the Enter key.

• Wait for the command to execute.
• Once the command is executed, restart your computer to complete the process.

Solution 5. Use System Restore

System Restore is a feature in Microsoft Windows that allows users to revert their computer's state to a previous point in time. This can be helpful if you have made changes to your system that are causing problems.

• Press the Windows key + R on your keyboard to open the Run box.
• Type SystemPropertiesProtection and press Enter.
• Go to the System Protection tab.
• You will see the System Restore… button. Click it to run System Restore.

• Follow the prompts until you can select a restore point.
• Select the one you want (ideally before the issue started occurring) and go ahead with the process.

Solution 6. Repair Install Windows

• Visit the official Microsoft website to download Windows 11 or Windows 10 Installation Media

• Run the Media Creation Tool and select Create Installation Media for another PC
• Select your USB drive
• Let the Process complete of writing the Installation files to the USB drive
• Click Finish
• On the PC you wish to upgrade, Press Windows + E to open the File Explorer
• Open the Removable drive and click Setup.exe
• Accept the license terms on the next screen
• Confirm the Upgrade options – Files, apps and Settings are kept
• Click Install, and the upgrade should start