Prior to Windows Server 2012 I had been use to installing DLL files in the Windows Global Assembly Cache (GAC) by either opening the Windows/Assembly folder in Explorer and simply dragging and dropping the file, or by using GacUtil.exe

With Windows Server 2012 unfortunately it’s not quite so easy. Being able to simply open the GAC in Explorer and drag/drop is gone. Also GacUtil.exe is not present on the server by default.

PowerShell to the rescue. Here’s how to register a DLL called “MyDLL.dll” to the GAC (and also how to remove it.

For this example assume we have the “MyDLL.dll” file stored at c:tempMyDLL.dll

To add a DLL to the GAC

1. Run the SharePoint PowerShell console as Administrator

2. Enter the following PowerShell

To remove a DLL from the GAC

1. Run the SharePoint PowerShell console as Administrator

2. Enter the following PowerShell

To view information for a…