According to Microsoft, crypt32.dll (also called Crypto API32) is the module that implements many of the Certificate and Cryptographic Messaging functions in the CryptoAPI. In some cases, crypt32.dll errors could indicate a registry problem, a virus or malware issue, or even a hardware failure. Some problems surrounding this file have also been caused by issues with RealPlayer updates.
Crypt32.dll Errors
There are several ways crypt32.dll errors can show up on your computer, either while using or installing certain programs, or when Windows starts or shuts down. Here are some examples:
Crypt32.dll Not FoundThis application failed to start because crypt32.dll was not found. Re-installing the application may fix this problemCannot find [PATH]\crypt32.dllThe file crypt32.dll is missingCannot start [APPLICATION]. A required component is missing: crypt32.dll. Please install [APPLICATION] againThe procedure entry point…could not be located in the dynamic link library C:\WINDOWS\System32\crypt32.dll
The context of the error is an important piece of information that will be helpful while solving the problem.
How to Fix Crypt32.dll Errors
Follow these steps in the order they’re given below to try the simpler solutions first.
Need More Help?
If you’re not interested in fixing this problem yourself, see How Do I Get My Computer Fixed? for a full list of your support options, plus help with everything along the way like figuring out repair costs, getting your files off, choosing a repair service, and a lot more. If you suspect this, but you’ve already emptied the Recycle Bin, you may be able to recover the file with a free data recovery program. If stopping the antivirus program from scanning that folder, or pausing the AV program altogether while you try to recreate the error, fixes the problem, you might make an exception in the software so that it doesn’t look for malware in that folder anymore. If the hardware fails any of your tests, replace the memory or replace the hard drive as soon as possible.
