Dll vs. exe file

A file refers to a container that is used to store information in a computer system. If you would like to learn to program, you should understand the common files used. Some of them include dll and exe files.

A programmer can tell a PC to behave in a particular manner. Such professionals write codes that instruct a computer. One can then export their final project to an Exe or DLL. We will discuss how such files differ to give you a better understanding of each of them. Read on!

What are the differences between dll file and exe file?

 Dll vs. exe file- How do they compare?

Definition

Exe refers to a file extension of an executable file. This can perform different tasks based on the encoded instructions. On the other hand, dll refers to the file extension of the Dynamic Link Library. This has procedures and functions that different programs can utilize.

Dependency

Dll files are utilized by other applications. While dll files do not run individually exe files run independently. Apart from dependency, these files also differ in that an Exe file has a fixed entry point while a DLL file does not. A DLL file has different entry points. In a DLL file, no single point can be defined as the starting point.

Required memory space

Exe files need lots of memory space. They create their own separate memory space and process. These differ from dll files that require minimum memory space in a system. A DLL file can share the same memory space and process as the calling application. An exe file, therefore, needs more memory space than a DLL file.

Dll vs. exe file- A comparison overview

DLL file overview

This refers to a dynamic link library file. The file has procedures and functions that different programs can use to do particular things. A library refers to a collection of software that is availed for different programs to utilize.

A DLL file cannot be run directly. It has to be loaded by an already running program. Since such a file is loaded when it is utilized, it minimizes the required memory and load time. Dll files are shared among different programs. This means that various programs can utilize similar files without copying them. Due to the capability of Dll files, they are great for distributing drivers.

A DLL file allows a program to separate its components into modules that can be removed or added to exclude or include particular functionalities. It also promotes updating a part of the program without the need to rebuild the entire program.

When shutting down or starting Windows, you may come across DLL errors. If you try to utilize dynamic linking during the load time, the program is likely to be terminated. You will then receive an error message. If you experience such issue, you should find troubleshooting information that can help you solve that specific DLL problem.

Pros

• It diminishes code duplication
• Saves memory and disk-space
• Ideal for large scale-scale development of software
• It reduces page switching
• Support multi-language programs

Cons

• The application program that utilizes DLL is not self-contained

Exe file overview

When opening software programs on Windows operating system, you may come across a file that has the Exe extension. This is an executable file that is used in different operating systems to install programs and execute commands required by the OS.  This executes certain instructions when the file is opened. Exe files can either be scripts or compiled programs.

It is often compiled into a binary machine code from a source code. A script refers to an uncompiled executable file. You can open such a file to view the code in text editors. Scripts need an interpreter for them to run.

Exe files can cause harm to a computer since they are often used to transport malicious software. The infection can occur when a program you assume to be legit launches and introduces a code that runs on a computer. You should therefore avoid opening exe files that you don’t understand on a computer.  Such files do not need a program to open since Windows can handle them. They can, however, become unusable when infected by a virus.

Some exe files can be extracted automatically to a certain location, while others ask you where you would like to decompress their contents. You can open an Exe file that is self-extracting using a file unzipper.

Though such files are designed for specific operating systems, it is possible to convert an excel file to a different format that makes it usable on another platform. You can, for instance, use a program such as CCleaner if you want to convert an executable file.

Pros

• You don’t have to use a certain program to open them
• They are self-extracting

Cons

• They are not always safe
• Exe files need more memory

Verdict: So, which is better? Dll or exe file

After comparing these two files, we discovered that dll is better since it is reusable. Such a file can be utilized in other applications while an Exe file cannot. A DLL file also requires minimal memory space, while an exe file requires lots of space.

FAQs

Are dll files the same as exe files?

No. Exe refers to an extension that is utilized for executable files. It is different from a DLL file which refers to an extension for a dynamic link library.

Should I delete DLL files?

No. This is not advisable since different programs share dll files. When you delete a DLL file, it can cause issues in your system. Some programs may stop functioning properly after this.