Symptoms
- Error names a specific file ending in .dll
- Message says the file is missing and the program can't start
- Happens every time you try to open that specific program
- Other programs generally work fine
Likely causes
- CommonProgram installation is corrupted or incompleteA missing DLL that belongs to the program itself usually means its own files got damaged or partially removed.
- CommonMissing shared runtime library (like Visual C++ Redistributable)Many programs rely on common runtime files that need to be installed separately.
- PossibleDLL was accidentally deleted by antivirus software or manual cleanupOverzealous cleanup tools or false-positive antivirus detections sometimes remove needed files.
- PossibleMalware infection that damaged or removed system filesSome malware specifically targets or is mistaken for legitimate DLL files.
- Less commonWindows system file corruptionIn rarer cases, a core Windows DLL rather than a program-specific one is affected.
What to do
- Note the exact DLL file name in the error and search for which program or Microsoft runtime it belongs to.
- If it's a well-known Microsoft runtime file (commonly named with 'msvcp' or 'vcruntime'), download and install the latest Microsoft Visual C++ Redistributable directly from Microsoft's official site.
- If the DLL belongs to the specific program itself, try reinstalling that program completely (uninstall first, then reinstall fresh) rather than just repairing it.
- Run a full antivirus/anti-malware scan to rule out an infection that removed or damaged the file.
- Run 'sfc /scannow' in an administrator Command Prompt if the missing file seems to be a core Windows component rather than a specific program's file.
- Check your antivirus software's quarantine or history to see if it removed the DLL by mistake, and restore it from there if so.
- Avoid downloading the specific DLL file from random 'DLL download' websites, since these are a common source of malware; reinstalling the proper program or runtime is much safer.
When to call a pro
If reinstalling the program and the relevant runtime library doesn't resolve a missing DLL error, a technician can identify whether it's a deeper Windows file issue or malware related.
Safety
Generally low risk
Generally low risk for a careful person. Stop if anything looks different from what this guide describes.