If you’ve ever tried to launch a game or app on Windows and got an error like “MSVCP140.dll is missing” or “VCRUNTIME140.dll not found”, you’re not alone. These DLL errors are extremely common on Windows 10 and 11 — especially after reinstalling Windows, uninstalling software, or cleaning up your system.
The good news? Fixing these Microsoft Visual C++ DLL missing errors is usually simple — and doesn’t require reinstalling Windows. In this guide, we’ll explain what causes these errors, which DLL files are affected, and step-by-step methods to fix them permanently.
What Are Microsoft Visual C++ DLL Files?
Microsoft Visual C++ Redistributables are packages that install essential runtime libraries for programs built with Visual Studio (the software development tool by Microsoft).
These DLL (Dynamic Link Library) files act like building blocks — they contain small chunks of code that multiple programs share. Without them, apps and games simply can’t run.
Common DLLs include:
MSVCP140.dllVCRUNTIME140.dllMSVCP120.dllMSVCR100.dllapi-ms-win-crt-runtime-l1-1-0.dll
When one of these files goes missing, Windows throws errors like:
- “The code execution cannot proceed because MSVCP140.dll was not found.”
- “VCRUNTIME140_1.dll is missing from your computer.”
- “Program can’t start because api-ms-win-crt-runtime-l1-1-0.dll is missing.”
Why Are DLL Files Missing?
There are several reasons why these files might be missing or corrupted:
- Incomplete Software Installation – Sometimes, a game or app doesn’t install its required Visual C++ components properly.
- Manual Deletion or Cleanup Tools – Overaggressive disk cleaners or uninstallers may remove shared runtime files.
- Windows Update Issues – Missing or outdated updates can prevent certain redistributables from working.
- Corrupted System Files – A corrupted Windows installation can also cause DLLs to disappear.
- Mix of 32-bit and 64-bit Apps – Some programs need both 32-bit (x86) and 64-bit (x64) versions of the runtime.
How To Fix Microsoft Visual C++ DLL Files Missing Error
Let’s go through the best and safest ways to fix missing Visual C++ DLLs on Windows 11.
1. Reinstall All Microsoft Visual C++ Redistributable Packages
This is the most effective and straightforward fix.
Step 1: Download Official Redistributables
Visit the official Microsoft download page: Microsoft Visual C++ Redistributable Downloads
Step 2: Download Both x64 and x86 Versions
- For 64-bit Windows: Download and install both
vc_redist.x64.exeandvc_redist.x86.exe. - For 32-bit Windows: Only install
vc_redist.x86.exe.
Step 3: Install Each Package
Run each installer and follow the prompts. If you already have one installed, click Repair instead of Uninstall.
Step 4: Restart Your PC
Once installed, restart your system and try launching your program again.
2. Repair Existing Visual C++ Redistributables
If the DLLs are present but corrupted, repairing them can help.
- Press Windows + R, type:
appwiz.cpland press Enter. - In the list, find Microsoft Visual C++ Redistributable entries.
- Right-click each one → click Change → then Repair.
- Repeat for all versions (2010, 2013, 2015–2022, etc.).
- Restart your PC.
Tip: Always repair rather than uninstall — it keeps your registry settings intact.
3. Use System File Checker (SFC) and DISM
Sometimes DLL issues are caused by corrupted Windows files.
Running the built-in repair tools can fix missing system components.
Step 1: Open Command Prompt as Administrator
Press Windows + S, type cmd, right-click Command Prompt, and choose Run as administrator.
Step 2: Run SFC Command
sfc /scannowThis will scan and automatically repair corrupted system files.
Step 3: Run DISM (if SFC fails)
DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /RestoreHealthAfter completion, restart your PC and test the affected program again.
4. Manually Place the Missing DLL File (Last Resort)
If reinstalling redistributables doesn’t help, you can manually restore the missing DLL file — but only from trusted sources.
- Go to a trusted DLL database (avoid random third-party sites).
The official redistributables are always safer than individual DLL downloads. - Once downloaded, copy the DLL file to:
C:\Windows\System32\(for 64-bit systems)
orC:\Windows\SysWOW64\(for 32-bit systems) - Reboot your PC.
Caution: Never download DLLs from unknown sites — they may contain malware or outdated versions. Always use Microsoft’s redistributable installers instead.
5. Update Windows
Visual C++ libraries often depend on core Windows updates.
To check for updates:
- Press Windows + I → open Settings.
- Navigate to Windows Update.
- Click Check for updates.
- Install any pending updates and restart your computer.
After reboot, Windows will automatically repair or replace missing runtime files if needed.
6. Reinstall the App or Game
If the error appears only in one specific app, reinstalling that app often resolves the issue because it reinstalls its required redistributable packages automatically.
Steps:
- Uninstall the problematic app.
- Restart your system.
- Reinstall it from a trusted or official source.
7. Use a PC Repair Tool (Optional)
If you frequently face DLL errors, using a repair tool like Fortect, Restoro, or Advanced System Repair can help automatically restore missing or corrupted runtime files.
(Make sure you download them from their official websites only.)
8. Install All Visual C++ Packages with Command Line (Advanced Users)
You can install all packages silently using CMD or PowerShell for convenience.
vc_redist.x64.exe /install /quiet /norestart
vc_redist.x86.exe /install /quiet /norestartThis method is especially useful for IT admins or developers who frequently set up new systems.
Conclusion
DLL missing errors might look scary, but they’re usually just a sign that your system is missing a few Microsoft Visual C++ components.
By reinstalling or repairing redistributables, running SFC/DISM, and keeping Windows up to date, you can resolve most of these issues in minutes.
Next time your system throws a “VCRUNTIME140.dll missing” error, don’t panic — just follow these steps, and your programs will be up and running again in no time.
