kernel32.dll
user32.dll
advapi32.dll
ws2_32.dll
In almost all cases, this error is benign. It usually appears, you click "OK", and the rest of the program continues to function normally. However, if you see this error constantly popping up on system startup or when opening non-developer applications (like Microsoft Word or a game), that could indicate malware.
Some older malware strains attempt to open or write to dlllist.txt as part of a DLL injection routine. If you see the error outside of Dependency Walker or custom scripts: failed to open dlllist.txt for reading error code 2
Open Notepad and save an empty file named dlllist.txt in the program’s folder.
Important: In File Explorer, enable View → File name extensions to avoid double extensions. kernel32
In 99% of cases, this error is not caused by a virus, corrupt Windows installation, or failing hard drive. It is caused by a legacy, but still widely used, tool called Dependency Walker (also known as depends.exe). In almost all cases, this error is benign
Dependency Walker is a free tool that scans 32-bit and 64-bit Windows executables (EXE files) and dynamic link libraries (DLL files) to list all dependent modules. It is an essential utility for: