'VCRUNTIME140.dll' or 'MSVCP140.dll' missing error

Symptoms

• Error specifically names VCRUNTIME140.dll, MSVCP140.dll, or a similar Microsoft runtime file
• Multiple unrelated programs may show the same or similar error
• Programs fail to open entirely rather than crashing after opening
• Often follows a Windows reinstall, cleanup tool, or a botched program uninstall

Likely causes

• CommonMicrosoft Visual C++ Redistributable not installed or corruptedThese runtime files are installed separately from Windows and can be missing after a fresh install or accidental removal.
• CommonWrong version (32-bit vs 64-bit) of the redistributable installedSome programs need the matching bitness version, and having only one installed can cause this for certain software.
• PossibleA cleanup or 'optimizer' tool removed the runtime files by mistakeSome third-party cleanup software incorrectly flags these as unnecessary and removes them.
• PossibleProgram's own installer failed to include or install its runtime dependencySome installers assume the redistributable is already present and don't install it if missing.
• Less commonMalware removal accidentally deleted the fileOverzealous malware removal can occasionally take out legitimate runtime files.

What to do

1. Go to Microsoft's official website and download the latest Visual C++ Redistributable packages (both x86 and x64 versions, since some programs need one or the other specifically).
2. Install both versions if you're not sure which is needed, since having both causes no harm.
3. Restart the computer after installation, then try opening the program that showed the error again.
4. If the error persists, try repairing the redistributable through Control Panel > Programs and Features by selecting it and choosing Repair, if that option is available.
5. If repairing doesn't help, uninstall the redistributable entirely and reinstall it fresh from Microsoft's site.
6. Check if the specific program that's failing has its own installer that bundles the needed runtime, and try reinstalling that program as well.
7. Avoid downloading the individual DLL file from third-party sites; always get the full redistributable package from Microsoft directly.

When to call a pro

If installing both versions of the Visual C++ Redistributable from Microsoft doesn't resolve the error, a technician can check for deeper system file corruption affecting these shared components.

Safety