Symptoms

When installing updates for FineReader PDF 15, one of the following error messages appears:

C:\Program Files (x86)\ABBYY FineReader 15\shelllicensing3.dll is not designed to run on Windows or it contains an error. Install the program again using the original installation media, or contact your system administrator or software vendor for support. Error Status: 0xc0000045.

or

Could not load DLL C:\Program Files (x86)\ABBYY FineReader 15\ShellLicensing3.dll. 

Cause

The situation may be caused by the antivirus software installed on the computer. 

Resolution

To resolve the issue, please try to repair FineReader PDF 15 as described in the article: Repairing FineReader.
Then try to install the updates via the Help menu > Check for Updates.

If it did not fix the issue, reinstall you copy of the program as described below:

1. Uninstall FineReader PDF 15 via Start > Control Panel > Programs > Programs and Features.
2. Temporarily disable the antivirus software installed on the computer.
3. Install the program using the distribution kit or request it by contacting Customer Support team.
4. After the installation, enable the antivirus software.

If the issue persists after following the steps above, please submit a request.