How do I execute a *.dll file

Question

I have a DLL file and want to execute it on Windows. I obtained this DLL from a Challenge site which alleges the DLL should be executed independently.

Answer 1

It should be mentioned that since it is entirely possible to run DLL's just as any other executable, it has long been considered a security issue. As such, there have been a number of security improvements and registry hacks (sorry no longer have ref-links) that prevents running DLL's from regular user space without extra privileges.

As a good example. I recall making these hacks, but since I no longer remember what exactly I did. I can no longer run any DLLs from normal user shell environment, even though starting various Win apps from GUI works just fine.

That said, one should definitely read "Dynamic-Link Library Security" and "Best Practices to Prevent DLL Hijacking".

Answer 2

The following series of steps might be helpful:

1. Open Windows Explorer
2. In the top-left corner, click "Organize"
3. select "Folder and Search Options"
4. Switch to the "View" tab
5. Scroll down and uncheck "Hide file extensions for known file types"
6. Click OK
7. Now find the dll file
8. Right-click on it and select "Rename"
9. Change the extension(what comes after the last .) and change it to .exe