How to Fix AMD_AGS_X64.DLL Missing Error?

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When launching certain games or graphics-intensive applications, you might be greeted with an annoying message like "The program can't start because AMD_AGS_X64.DLL is missing from your computer." This error often halts your workflow or gameplay and can be frustrating, especially if you're unsure of what the AMD_AGS_X64.DLL file does or how to fix the issue.

In this guide, we'll explore what this file is, why the error appears, and how to resolve it using safe, effective methods. Let's dive into how you can restore functionality to your system and get back to your tasks without delay.

About the AMD_AGS_X64.DLL Missing Error

What Is AMD_AGS_X64.DLL?

AMD_AGS_X64.DLL stands for AMD GPU Services 64-bit Dynamic Link Library. It's a crucial file used by certain AMD Radeon graphics cards and required by games or applications that depend on GPU-based rendering and acceleration. This DLL file provides application-level access to AMD GPU features, especially in DirectX 11/12 environments.

If this file is missing, corrupted, or incompatible, programs that rely on AMD graphics services will fail to start or crash unexpectedly.

Common Error Messages Related to AMD_AGS_X64.DLL

• "AMD_AGS_X64.DLL is missing."
• "The code execution cannot proceed because AMD_AGS_X64.DLL was not found."
• "There was a problem starting AMD_AGS_X64.DLL. The specified module could not be found."

These errors are typically triggered when launching a game like Assassin's Creed, Resident Evil, Far Cry, or any GPU-heavy application.

What Causes the AMD_AGS_X64.DLL Missing Error?

Several underlying factors could cause this error:

• Outdated or corrupted AMD graphics drivers
• Accidental deletion of the DLL file
• Malware or virus infection
• Corrupt software installations
• System file or Windows registry corruption

Understanding the root cause helps you choose the most effective fix. Let's go through the top methods to resolve the issue.

Preliminary Checks Before Fixing AMD_AGS_X64.DLL Missing Error

Before diving into advanced fixes, try the following quick checks:

1. Restart Your PC

Sometimes the system fails to load DLL files correctly, and a reboot may fix temporary glitches.

2. Check the Recycle Bin

The file may have been accidentally deleted. If you find AMD_AGS_X64.DLL in the Recycle Bin, right-click and select Restore.

3. Run a Full Antivirus Scan

Use Windows Defender or a reliable antivirus tool to scan your system. Malware can corrupt or delete DLL files.

If these checks don't help, proceed with the step-by-step solutions below.

Methods to Fix AMD_AGS_X64.DLL Missing Error

If the issue persists after the preliminary checks, here are some advanced methods you can try to fix the issue. You can follow the methods one by one and check if the issue can be resolved in any way.

Method 1: Reinstall AMD Graphics Drivers

Corrupt or outdated AMD graphics drivers are one of the most common reasons behind the AMD_AGS_X64.DLL missing error. Since the DLL file is part of the AMD GPU Services package, any problem with the associated drivers can lead to the DLL being improperly installed, corrupted, or not recognized by the system.

Reinstalling your AMD graphics drivers ensures that all critical components—including AMD_AGS_X64.DLL—are correctly deployed in your system's directories. Here's a comprehensive, step-by-step guide:

Step 1: Uninstall the Existing AMD Drivers

Before you install fresh drivers, it's crucial to remove the corrupted or outdated ones to avoid conflicts.

Option A: Uninstall via Device Manager

1. Using Windows + X, select Device Manager.
2. Expand Display Adapters.
3. To uninstall your AMD graphics card, right-click on it and choose Uninstall device.
4. Check the option that reads "Delete the driver software for this device" if available.
5. Choose Uninstall and wait for the process to complete.
6. Start your PC again.

Option B: Use AMD Cleanup Utility (Recommended)

1. Download the AMD Cleanup Utility from AMD's official website.
2. Run the tool—it will reboot your system into safe mode.
3. Let the utility automatically remove all AMD graphics drivers, registry entries, and services.
4. After cleanup, your system will restart normally.

Using the AMD Cleanup Utility is preferable because it ensures no leftover files or registry traces are present that might interfere with the reinstallation.

Step 2. Download and Reinstall ADM Drivers

Now, visit the official AMD Drivers and Support page:

• Use the Auto-Detect and Install tool or manually select your GPU.
• Download and install the latest version.
• Reboot your computer.

This reinstall usually includes the required AMD_AGS_X64.DLL file in the package.

Why Reinstalling the Driver Works

Reinstalling the AMD graphics driver works because it ensures:

• The correct version of AMD_AGS_X64.DLL is deployed.
• Any file corruption or missing dependency is resolved.
• The Windows registry is correctly updated with proper paths and references to AMD system files.

In many cases, this single step can eliminate the DLL error without the need for manually downloading or placing files, especially since AMD packages are self-contained.

Method 2: Manually Restore AMD_AGS_X64.DLL

If the driver update doesn't resolve the issue, you can manually add the DLL file.

Steps to Restore Manually:

1. Download AMD_AGS_X64.DLL from a trusted source or extract it from another working PC with the same setup.
2. Place the file in C:\Windows\System32\ (for 64-bit systems), or in the folder of the application/game that reports the error
3. Launch Command Prompt in Administrator mode.
4. Type the following command and press Enter:

   regsvr32 AMD_AGS_X64.DLL

This will register the file within Windows. Restart your PC afterward.

💡 Note: Only download DLL files from official or verified sources. Avoid shady third-party sites which might host malware.

Method 3: Run System File Checker and DISM

Corrupt system files may also trigger the missing DLL error. Microsoft provides built-in tools to repair them.

Step 1: Run SFC

1. Launch Command Prompt in Administrator mode.
2. Enter:

   sfc /scannow

3. Wait until the scan completes (this may take several minutes).
4. Start your system again.

Step 2: Use DISM Tool (if SFC fails)

1. Launch Command Prompt in Administrator mode.
2. Type the following commands one at a time:

   DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /CheckHealth
   DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /ScanHealth
   DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /RestoreHealth

These commands will verify and repair Windows image corruption. After completion, restart your PC.

Method 4: Reinstall the Affected Software or Game

If AMD_AGS_X64.DLL is required by a specific game or software and nothing else works, reinstall that application.

Steps to Reinstall Software on Windows:

1. Go to App & features from Apps via Settings.
2. Search and select the application and click Uninstall.

3. Restart your PC.
4. Download the latest version of the app from the official website or game launcher (e.g., Steam, Epic Games).
5. Reinstall and verify if the issue is resolved.

This often restores all dependent files, including the required DLL.

Method 5: Use System Restore

If the error started recently after a driver or software update, system restore might bring things back to normal.

Steps to Run System Restore:

1. Type rstrui using Win + R, then press Enter.
2. Either pick a restore point before the problem occurred or choose the recommended restoration.
3. Follow the prompts to complete the process.

System Restore won't affect your personal files but will revert system and driver settings.

💡 Note: You need to create a system restore point before the issue happened. Otherwise, this method is not valid.

Method 6: Update Windows

An outdated version of Windows can sometimes conflict with updated drivers or software, leading to DLL issues.

How to Update Windows:

1. Go to Settings > Windows Update.
2. Click Check for updates.
3. Install all available updates.
4. Reboot your PC.

Keeping Windows up-to-date ensures compatibility with the latest drivers and libraries.

Method 7: Use a Trusted DLL Repair Tool (Optional)

While not always necessary, some users find success with DLL fixer software like:

• Restoro
• System Mechanic
• Glary Utilities

These tools scan your system for missing/corrupt DLL files and attempt to replace or restore them. However, always review these tools carefully to avoid installing bloatware or malicious software.

Precautions and Best Practices

To avoid encountering DLL errors in the future, follow these tips:

When to Seek Professional Help

If none of the above methods work, it may indicate:

• Deeper Windows corruption
• Hardware issues with your GPU
• A conflict between software versions

In such cases, consult a certified IT technician or visit an authorized AMD support center.

Conclusion

The AMD_AGS_X64.DLL missing error is a common but fixable issue, especially for systems using AMD graphics cards. Whether caused by driver problems, software conflicts, or malware, this guide has outlined several proven solutions you can safely perform yourself.

To recap, the most effective solutions include:

• Reinstalling AMD GPU drivers
• Restoring or registering the missing DLL
• Running SFC and DISM scans
• Reinstalling the affected application
• Using System Restore or Windows Update

Always begin with the least invasive fixes and work your way up. And remember: regular maintenance and system updates can go a long way in preventing DLL issues in the first place.