How to Fix Libgcc_s_sjlj-1.dll Missing Error: 5 Methods to Download the File

The libgcc_s_sjlj-1.dll file plays an essential role for applications developed with MinGW. If this file is missing, users will encounter an error message stating: “The program can’t start because libgcc_s_sjlj-1.dll is missing from your computer. Try reinstalling the program to fix this problem.”

This issue often arises due to using the wrong version of MinGW during compilation, a corrupted DLL file, or interference from antivirus software that blocks the execution of libgcc_s_sjlj-1.dll.

Before attempting any fixes, it’s advisable to reboot your computer, install any outstanding Windows updates, check for updates for the affected program, and temporarily disable any third-party antivirus solutions!

What should I do if libgcc_s_sjlj-1.dll is missing?

1. Obtain a manual copy of the DLL

The simplest way to resolve the missing libgcc_s_sjlj-1.dll issue is to place the file in the same directory as the executable file (.exe) of the affected program. The typical storage path for libgcc_s_sjlj-1.dll is: MinGW\bin.

To do this, connect a USB drive to another computer, navigate to the MinGW\bin folder, find the DLL, and transfer it to the USB drive. Then, connect the USB drive to the affected machine, copy the DLL to both the MinGW\bin folder and the directory where the affected program’s executable is located, and restart your computer.

2. Confirm you are using the correct MinGW version

In numerous instances, users faced challenges due to utilizing an incorrect version of MinGW. A common situation involves using the 64-bit MinGW compiler instead of the necessary 32-bit version. Switching to the MinGW 32-bit compiler often resolves the libgcc_s_sjlj-1.dll error.

Additionally, ensure that the same MinGW version used to compile the program is also being used with Qt. Using a different version can lead to errors.

3. Implement -shared-libgcc

Introducing -shared-libgcc and -shared-libstdc++ into the compiler and linker flags will remove the executable’s dependency on libgcc_s_sjlj-1.dll, thus resolving the error.

To implement this adjustment, go to Settings > Compilers > Linker Settings > Other linker settings and add -shared-libgcc along with -shared-libstdc++.

4. Whitelist the program and libgcc_s_sjlj-1.dll

1. Press Windows + S, type Windows Security, and select the relevant entry.
2. Navigate to Virus & threat protection.
   

   

3. Click on Manage settings under the Virus & threat protection tab.
4. Scroll down and choose Add or remove exclusions.
   

   

5. Select the Add an exclusion button and opt for Folder from the dropdown.
   

   

6. Navigate to the program’s directory containing the DLL, select the entire folder, then click Select Folder.
7. After adding the exclusion, restart your computer to apply the changes.

If Windows Security continually deletes libgcc_s_sjlj-1.dll after you add it to the program’s folder, it is likely being flagged as a potential threat. Perform a scan on the DLL, and if deemed safe, add an exclusion for this file.

This way, any future manual transfers of the DLL will remain intact for program access!

5. Reinstall the problematic program

1. Press Windows + R to open the Run dialog, type appwiz.cpl, and hit Enter.
2. From the list, find the troubled program, and click on Uninstall.
   

   

3. Follow the on-screen prompts to finish the uninstallation, then restart your PC.
4. Finally, download and install the application from the developer’s official website.

If you are simply using the application that produces the error and none of the solutions are effective, your best option might be to reinstall the program.

This is essential since third-party DLLs are typically included with the installer and should be added to your system during initial setup. If this did not happen on the first installation, reinstalling will likely resolve the issue!

Keep in mind, as libgcc_s_sjlj-1.dll is a third-party DLL, conducting a System File Checker (SFC) scan or reinstalling Windows will not rectify this issue as it is not part of the standard OS installation. You will need to pursue program-specific solutions to address the problem.

If you have any questions or wish to share which solution worked for you, feel free to leave a comment below.

Author: Egor Kostenko

My goal is to make complex technical topics simple and accessible. On this site, I gather unique and useful content that not only solves users’ problems but also helps them better understand the capabilities of Windows.