What is the difference between an EXE and a DLL

Question

Hi friends, Ques : I want to know that what is the difference between an EXE and a DLL.Please explain in brief?

Satyapriya Nayak · Answer

Hi Manish, 1.EXE is an extension used for executable files while DLL is the extension for a dynamic link library. 2.An EXE file can be run independently while a DLL is used by other applications. 3.A DLL file can be reused by other applications while an EXE cannot. 4.Exe is for single use whereas you can use Dll for multiple use 5.Dll is an In-Process Component whereas EXE is an OUt-Process Component. 6.You can create an objects of Dll but not of the EXE. Thanks

Senthilkumar · Answer

Hi, DLL - Dynamic Link Library EXE - Executable File EXE is independent executable file. DLL is library amd can be part of EXE DLL is a WIN 32 LIBRARY file, whereas the exe is a WIN32 executable file. DLL can be reused and versioned. DLL reduces storage space as different programs/files can use the same dll. DLL does not have a main function. DLL binding occurs at runtime. That is why its called "Dynamic Link" library. EXE has a single main entry point. The DLL is library and it can be added into the application. It can be versoned.

What is the difference between an EXE and a DLL

Answers (2)