Windows 7: Resolving 'DiscardVirtualMemory could not be located' Error with GitHub Desktop

Windows 7: Resolving "DiscardVirtualMemory could not be located" Error in GitHub Desktop

If you're still using Windows 7 and encounter the error "DiscardVirtualMemory could not be located" when trying to use GitHub Desktop, this article will guide you through the process of resolving the issue. The error is related to the dynamic link library (DLL) and prevents GitHub Desktop from functioning correctly. This issue can occur due to various reasons, such as missing or corrupted DLL files. We will discuss the key concepts related to the error and provide a step-by-step solution.

Understanding the Error

The error message "DiscardVirtualMemory could not be located" is related to the dynamic link library (DLL) in Windows. DLL files are external components of an application that can be shared by multiple programs. When an application needs a DLL file, it searches for it in specific directories. If the DLL file is missing or corrupted, the application will not function correctly, resulting in an error message.

Resolving the Error

To resolve the error, you can try the following steps:

1. Run the System File Checker

   The System File Checker is a Windows utility that can scan for and restore corrupted system files. To run the System File Checker, follow these steps:

   1. Press the Windows key + X and select Command Prompt (Admin) or PowerShell (Admin).
   2. Type sfc /scannow and press Enter.
   3. Wait for the scan to complete. This may take some time.

2. Register the DLL File

   If the System File Checker does not resolve the issue, you can try registering the DLL file manually. To do this, follow these steps:

   1. Press the Windows key + R and type cmd in the Run dialog box. Press Enter.
   2. Type regsvr32 DiscardVirtualMemory.dll and press Enter.
   3. If the registration is successful, you will see a message saying "DllRegisterServer in DiscardVirtualMemory.dll succeeded."

3. Reinstall GitHub Desktop

   If the above steps do not resolve the issue, you can try reinstalling GitHub Desktop. Uninstall the application and then download and install the latest version from the official GitHub website.

The error "DiscardVirtualMemory could not be located" in Windows 7 is related to the dynamic link library (DLL) and can occur due to missing or corrupted DLL files. To resolve the issue, you can run the System File Checker, register the DLL file manually, or reinstall GitHub Desktop. By following the steps outlined in this article, you should be able to resolve the error and use GitHub Desktop without any issues.

References

• Microsoft Support: Use the System File Checker tool to repair missing or corrupted system files
• Microsoft Developer Network: Dynamic-Link Library Files
• GitHub Desktop: GitHub Desktop

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