Many PC gamers have encountered a frustrating issue when installing games on Windows—the dreaded Isdone.dll error. This error occurs primarily during the installation of larger games that come in compressed formats and need to be extracted during setup. The appearance of the Isdone.dll error usually halts installation, leaving users searching for solutions. Fortunately, this problem can be resolved through a variety of methods that address the root causes, including memory limitations, corrupted game files, and software conflicts.
The Isdone.dll is a system file related to the decompression of compressed files using the Inno Setup installer package. It works in tandem with another file, Unarc.dll, and the error may show a message like “It is not found any file specified for ISArcExtract” or “An error occurred while unpacking” depending on the situation.
Common Causes of the Isdone.dll Error
- Insufficient RAM – Decompression during installation can use large amounts of memory, and inadequate RAM can trigger this error.
- Corrupt or Incomplete Game Files – Damaged setups or missing components from game downloads often lead to this problem.
- Antivirus or Firewall Interference – Security software can mistakenly block or delete DLL files used during setup.
- Hard Drive Issues – Bad sectors or low storage space can interrupt the writing of files during installation.
Fixing the Isdone.dll Error
Below are several tried and tested solutions that have helped many users resolve the Isdone.dll error:
1. Check System Requirements
Before installing a game, ensure that your system meets the minimum hardware and software requirements. A lack of physical RAM or disk space may be the primary reason for the error.
2. Run the Installer as Administrator
Right-click the game’s setup file and select “Run as administrator”. This allows it unrestricted access to system files and memory resources during installation.
3. Disable Antivirus and Firewall Temporarily
Some antivirus programs may interpret the installer’s decompression process as suspicious behavior. Disable real-time protection or add the setup folder to your antivirus’s exclusion list.
4. Re-download and Re-extract the Game Files
If the game files are corrupted or incomplete, the installer can’t proceed. Try re-downloading the game from a trusted source and verify its full extraction before running setup.
5. Increase Virtual Memory
Boosting virtual memory (paging file size) can assist when the physical RAM is insufficient.
- Open System Properties and go to the Performance section.
- Select Advanced > Virtual Memory and set a custom size, preferably 1.5x or 2x your installed RAM.
- Restart your PC for the changes to take effect.
6. Perform a Memory Diagnostic
Use Windows Memory Diagnostic Tool to check for faulty RAM which could affect decompression:
- Press Windows + R, type mdsched.exe, and run the tool.
- Select “Restart now and check for problems”.
7. Register the DLL Manually
Sometimes the DLL file is present but not properly registered in Windows:
- Open Command Prompt as administrator.
- Type: regsvr32 isdone.dll and press Enter.
- Do the same for unarc.dll if needed.
FAQ
Q1: What is Isdone.dll?
A: Isdone.dll is a Windows Dynamic Link Library file used during the decompression of game or software installations that rely on Inno Setup and similar installers.
Q2: Can I delete Isdone.dll?
A: No, deleting this file can cause problems with software installers. It’s a system-level file that should be repaired, not removed.
Q3: Is this error specific to pirated games?
A: Not necessarily. Though more common with unofficial repacks, the error can also appear with legitimate game setups if system conditions trigger it.
Q4: How can I prevent the Isdone.dll error in the future?
A: Regularly scan for malware, avoid multitasking during installations, maintain adequate free space and RAM, and ensure your system is kept updated.
By following these troubleshooting steps, users can resolve the Isdone.dll error and enjoy uninterrupted game installations on their Windows PC. Taking preventive actions such as regular maintenance and downloading from reliable sources goes a long way in avoiding this issue altogether.
