How to Reinstall Microsoft Visual C++ Redistributable

If you’ve been getting errors like: Microsoft Visual C++ Runtime Error, The program can’t start because MSVCP140.dll is missing, or VCRUNTIME140.dll not found, you’re not alone. These errors often mean your Microsoft Visual C++ Redistributable files are either missing, outdated, or corrupted.

Luckily, the fix is simple — reinstalling the redistributable packages restores all missing components and runtime libraries your system needs to run apps and games smoothly.

In this guide, we’ll walk you through every method to properly reinstall Microsoft Visual C++ Redistributables on Windows 11.

What Are Microsoft Visual C++ Redistributables?

Microsoft Visual C++ Redistributables are essential runtime libraries that allow programs built with Microsoft Visual Studio to function correctly.

Different applications require different versions — for example:

• 2005–2013 versions for older software,
• 2015–2022 versions for newer apps and games.

These redistributables are automatically installed with many programs, but sometimes they can become corrupted or deleted during system updates or software removals.

Reinstalling them ensures all dependencies are restored and compatible with your Windows 11 system.

Step 1: Uninstall Existing Microsoft Visual C++ Redistributables

Before reinstalling, it’s best to remove the currently installed versions to prevent conflicts.

1. Press Windows + R, type: appwiz.cpl and press Enter to open Programs and Features.
2. Scroll through the list and find entries starting with:
   Microsoft Visual C++ Redistributable
3. Select each one (e.g., 2008, 2010, 2013, 2015–2022) → click Uninstall.
4. Repeat for both x64 and x86 versions.
5. Once all are removed, restart your PC.

Tip: Uninstalling ensures old or broken files don’t interfere with the new installation.

Step 2: Download the Latest Supported Visual C++ Redistributables

Microsoft provides official installers for all supported Visual C++ versions.

1. Visit the official Microsoft download page: https://learn.microsoft.com/en-us/cpp/windows/latest-supported-vc-redist
2. Scroll down to Visual Studio 2015–2022 section.
3. Download both of these files:
   • vc_redist.x64.exe (for 64-bit programs)
   • vc_redist.x86.exe (for 32-bit programs)

Pro Tip: Even on a 64-bit Windows 11 PC, you must install both versions because many older 32-bit applications still rely on the x86 package.

Step 3: Install the Redistributable Packages

After downloading the installers:

1. Right-click each installer (starting with vc_redist.x86.exe) → select Run as administrator.
2. Follow the on-screen instructions and click Install.
3. Once completed, repeat the process for vc_redist.x64.exe.
4. Restart your computer to apply the changes.

Note: If prompted that a newer version is already installed, you can skip that particular installer.

Step 4: (Optional) Install Older Redistributable Versions

Some legacy apps require older Visual C++ Redistributables such as 2008, 2010, or 2013.

To install them:

1. Scroll further down the same Microsoft page and look for older versions.
2. Download and install the ones your software specifically needs.
   • Example: “Microsoft Visual C++ 2010 SP1 Redistributable Package (x86 and x64)”
3. Install each one and restart once done.

Pro Tip: You can find what version your software requires in its documentation or error logs.

Step 5: Automatically Reinstall All Versions Using an AIO Package (Optional)

If you want to install all versions at once — from 2005 through 2022 — you can use a trusted All-in-One (AIO) installer.

1. Go to TechPowerUp’s official download page: https://www.techpowerup.com/download/visual-c-redistributable-runtime-package-all-in-one/
2. Download the ZIP file and extract it.
3. Right-click install_all.bat → select Run as administrator.
4. Wait for the batch script to finish installing all Visual C++ versions automatically.
5. Restart your PC.

Tip: This method ensures every redistributable (2005–2022) is installed correctly, covering every possible dependency.

Step 6: Verify Installation

After reinstalling, make sure everything installed properly.

1. Open Control Panel → Programs → Programs and Features.
2. You should now see multiple entries such as:
   • Microsoft Visual C++ 2008 Redistributable
   • Microsoft Visual C++ 2010 Redistributable
   • Microsoft Visual C++ 2013 Redistributable
   • Microsoft Visual C++ 2015–2022 Redistributable (x64 & x86)

If these entries are visible, your Visual C++ runtime environment is fully reinstalled and ready.

Wrapping Up

Reinstalling Microsoft Visual C++ Redistributables is one of the most reliable ways to fix missing DLLs, runtime crashes, and startup errors on Windows 11.

By uninstalling old packages, downloading the latest supported versions from Microsoft, and reinstalling both x86 and x64 builds, you can restore full compatibility for all your software and games.

For a one-click solution, the All-in-One runtime installer ensures every version from 2005 through 2022 is installed in minutes — perfect for developers, gamers, and power users alike.

Once done, restart your computer, and your programs should run without any Visual C++ runtime errors.