Cannot launch a game because of missing OpenAL32.dll library

Cannot launch a game because of missing OpenAL32.dll library - From below pensive gray haired woman trying to guess who closing eyes while sitting at table and reading book in light library in cottage

I'm trying to launch a Steam game on my computer (it's Stealth Inc 2: A Game of Clones, but I believe the issue is much more common). Every time I launch I get a message that says:

You cannot launch the game, because OpenAL32.dll was not found

I googled the solution, but most of what I get is "download an exe file that will install the dll". I don't trust this solution. I don't know the sites I can download it from, therefore I can't be sure if I'm not accidently downloading malware.

My question's are:

  1. What is this library for?
  2. How is it usually appear on my computer?
  3. What is the safest way to get one for my computer?

Thanks in advance.



Best Answer

OpenAL is a multi-platform audio interface that was created by Creative Technology to provide an efficient means to render sound in 3D.

In other words, this is interface behind the games ability to play sound realistically, in a 3D environment. It allows the game to account for distance, degradation, and even replicate the Doppler effect. This interface is common across a broad range of games and platforms, including emulators such as dolphin, and blender.

Ultimately, the best means to aquire openal32.dll securely is through steam. As Yorik details, you should have an installation for it provided. Should your install file be missing, it would be worth validating the game via Steam, to ensure you have not simply deleted it by mistake.

You can find the official OpenAL website here, and the official developers homepage here. This might help you with authenticating alternate methods of download, should the intended means fault out. I generally recommend only downloading DLL files from the source, but Creative Technology only provide the SDK files.




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How do I fix missing openal32 dll error?

How to Fix Openal32. dll Errors
  • Restore openal32. ...
  • Reinstall the program that uses the openal32. ...
  • If you're seeing the DLL error with a Steam game, open oalinst.exe to install the missing DLL file. ...
  • Install the OpenAL Windows program to download the official openal32. ...
  • Run a virus/malware scan of your entire system.


  • How do I download openal32 dll?

    Method 1: Download Openal32.dll to PC from our site. Copy the file to the program install directory after where it is missing the DLL file. Or move the DLL file to the directory of your System (C:\\Windows\\System32, and for a 64 bit in C:\\Windows\\SysWOW64\\). Now you need to reboot the computer.

    What does openal32 dll do?

    OpenAL32. dll is a component of the OpenAL audio application program interface, which is required by various programs, such as games and audio applications. OpenAL or your program may be corrupted so your OpenAL32.

    Where is Xlive dll located?

    In the vast majority of cases, the solution is to properly reinstall xlive. dll on your PC, to the Windows system folder. Alternatively, some programs, notably PC games, require that the DLL file is placed in the game/application installation folder.



    openal32.dll Missing Error | How to Fix | 2 Fixes | 2021




    More answers regarding cannot launch a game because of missing OpenAL32.dll library

    Answer 2

    There is one way to solve this problem without using any additional software - download the missing dll library file and add it into the directory. You can follow the instructions from here: http://fix4dll.com/openal32_dll. I'm sure you'll fix it fast. Good luck.

    Sources: Stack Exchange - This article follows the attribution requirements of Stack Exchange and is licensed under CC BY-SA 3.0.

    Images: Andrea Piacquadio, Игорь Альшин, Pixabay, Ann H