How to fix
Winhttp.dll Not Found or Missing Error
on Windows

For some reason, I received a "Winhttp.dll not found” error. What can I do about it?

Winhttp.dll is a dynamic link library file (DLL) which is associated with MSDN Disc 1836. It’s a component of Windows operating system. If something goes wrong with this file, the error might pop-up. The most common types of the error message are:

• "Winhttp.dll not found.”
• "The file winhttp.dll is missing.”
• "Cannot register winhttp.dll."
• "Cannot find [PATH]\winhttp.dll.”
• "Cannot find C:\Windows\System32\\winhttp.dll."
• "Cannot start MSDN Disc 1836. A required component is missing: winhttp.dll. Please install MSDN Disc 1836 again.”
• "This application failed to start because winhttp.dll was not found. Re-installing the application may fix this problem.”

Most of the time these errors show up when using a particular program and starting or shutting down a computer. The Winhttp.dll errors might bother all Windows users, starting from Windows 2000 and finishing with Windows 10. Numerous DLL files are located on the system and allow different programs to use the same functionality. For this reason, these external files can be easily corrupted or deleted. As a result, users encounter errors like "Winhttp.dll not found.” The main reasons why this error appears is corrupted registry entry, overwritten version of the file, accidental deletion of the file. However, the error might be triggered because of outdated drivers or programs. In this case, helps re-installation of the software or updating old programs. Besides, virus attack might also be a reason of this error. Dangerous cyber infections are usually capable of damaging system files, and Winhttp.dll might be one of them. If you suspect that your computer might be infected with a virus, you should scan the device with [rev id=“Reimage”].

Fixing Winhttp.dll Not Found or Missing Error

Nevertheless, various websites offer to download Winhttp.dll itself, and for free, you should not do that. One of the reasons why is that these sites are questionable and might be insecure. Thus, instead of installing DLL file, you might download a virus. Apart from this risk, you should also know that this file is developed and distributed by software developers. Thus, the safe and working copy of the file you can get only from them. Even if you manage to do so, it may be just a temporary solution. If a corrupted program caused this error, you might soon receive more similar errors. Fixing each of the program’s components is not wise. It’s better to re-install the program.

1. Reinstall the program that causes Winhttp.dll error

If you receive one of those warnings that identify the program that cannot work properly or causes the error, you should simply uninstall and install it again. Go to Control Panel, open Add/Remove Programs (or Programs and Features - the name might different due to the version of Windows OS) -> find in the list a program -> double-click on it and follow uninstallation guide. Once the application is uninstalled, you may need to reboot your device. Then you should re-install the program, and the error should be fixed.

2. Scam the system with security program

Various cyber infections might be capable of damaging DLL files after the attack. Thus, if you notice other signs of possible cyber attack, such as sluggish computer’s performance, noticing strange programs running in the background, etc., you should scan device with malware removal program immediately. We highly recommend choosing to complete this task using [rev id=“Reimage”] and with the help of it clean the computer with the help of it. However, if virus infection was not the case, you should try other tips to fix Winhttp.dll Not Found or Missing Error.

3. Run System File Checker

In order to replace a corrupted DLL file, you can employ a System File Checker tool. This program is pre-installed on Windows. Thus, you can access it by following these steps:

1. Open Command Prompt as an administrator by going to Start, typing cmd in the search box and choosing the right option from the results.

2. In the Command Prompt copy the following command and press Enter button:

sfc /scannow

3. The System File Checker starts verifying files on the operating system. Once the scan is over, you will see search results. If Winhttp.dll has been fixed, you will see it in the window.

4. If some files were fixed, reboot your computer.

4. Install Updates

Sometimes Winhttp.dll errors might be fixed by installing Windows or software updates. Developers always replace outdated files, and it might be the issue. Follow the steps below to check available updates:

Windows 10: Start menu -> Settings -> Update & Security -> Windows update (on the left) -> Check for updates button.

Windows 8: Start -> Control Panel -> Windows Update -> Check for updates button. If updates do not start automatically, click Install updates button.

Once all updates are installed open the program that might be responsible for this error and check if it was fixed.

5. Update hardware drivers

Outdated drivers might be one of the reasons why Winhttp.dll error has occurred. Thus, updating them may solve the problem. You should look up for the necessary driver updates on the developer's website, for instance, Microsoft.