If you’re seeing some kind of error message containing the winsock.dll file, it may seem pretty obvious that this particular registry file is causing your error.  However, some winsock.dll errors do not manifest themselves with such a clear explanation.  In those instances, you will need to determine whether the winsock registry key is really the problem using a few Microsoft-recommended steps.

Testing Winsock.dll Corruption

In Windows XP, it is possible to use a manual process to determine if the winsock registry key is responsible for the internet errors manifesting themselves on your PC.  You’ll need to have Microsoft Windows XP Support Tools installed on your computer first.  This program is conveniently located on your Windows XP Setup CD, in case you do not have it installed yet.

1. Insert the Setup CD.

2. Find the folder Support\Tools and choose the “Setup.exe” file.

3. The Install Wizard will guide you through the installation.  When you come to “Select an Installation Type,” choose “Complete,” and go to “Next.”

Using the Netdiag Tool

Once Support Tools are installed, you can use the Netdiag Tool to check various internet connections, and the winsock key specifically.

1. Click on “Start” and choose “Run.”

2. Type “Command” in the box and click on “OK.”

3. Type ” netdiag /test:winsock ” (no quotes), and then hit ENTER on your keyboard.

This will return a “test results” for various components of your network and internet connection.  If the winsock.dll file fails the test, then you know that this is the cause of the errors, and you will have to take steps to fix the problem.

Fixing Winsock Registry Key Corruption

Since this file is a part of the Windows registry, there are a number of possible causes of corruption of the winsock.dll file.  The registry has to do with user preferences, program settings, and other files that have to do with how your computer performs everyday tasks.  Deleting an old program or adding a new one can cause damage to the registry in some cases.

While you can search Microsoft’s Support Center for a manual method to restore the winsock.dll file, it involves editing the registry, which can be a tricky operation.  The easiest way to fix this registry key is to use a registry cleaning program.  The Windows registry undergoes constant change–whenever you change user preferences, add or delete programs, or even turn the computer off and on, entries are made or changed in the registry.

A registry cleaner will restore corrupted registry entries and clean up unnecessary ones.    Specifically, use a registry cleaner to fix winsock.dll and avoid having to manually edit the registry.

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