Fix Missing DLL Errors Like MSVCP140.dll on Windows 11: Complete Troubleshooting Guide

When opening a favorite app or game only to be greeted by cryptic errors like “MSVCP140.dll is missing” or “The program can’t start because VCRUNTIME140.dll was not found,” frustration is inevitable. These missing runtime library errors are among the most common—and most misunderstood—obstacles for everyday Windows 11 users and IT professionals alike. At the heart of these errors are essential code libraries, especially Microsoft Visual C++ Redistributables, which many modern apps require to function correctly. If just one matching runtime is missing, outdated, or corrupted, many programs will immediately fail to launch or perform erratically, sometimes without a clear message. Fortunately, resolving these issues is usually far less daunting than it first appears.

What Exactly Are Windows Runtime Libraries?​

Runtime libraries, particularly those from Microsoft known as Visual C++ Redistributables, are special dynamic-link library files (.DLLs) that provide pre-written code for programs to use. Instead of each software developer building complex routines from scratch, they rely on these shared libraries for tasks such as file I/O, networking, and advanced graphics. It’s efficient for developers and keeps your computer’s disk space smaller—but it creates dependencies: the program will only run if the exact versions of these DLLs are present.
Microsoft traditionally updates these “redistributables” with almost every version of Visual Studio. Apps compiled with Visual Studio 2015, 2017, 2019, or 2022 often require their corresponding Visual C++ redistributables to be installed. Windows 11, in an effort to keep the OS lean and flexible, doesn’t install every possible version by default. The result is a landscape where users often encounter confusing DLL errors just by trying to run a newly installed app.

Common Causes of Missing Runtime Libraries in Windows 11​

Understanding the root causes helps resolve—and prevent—runtime errors effectively. The most frequent reasons on Windows 11 include:

• Missing or Corrupted Files: DLLs such as MSVCP140.dll (Visual C++ 2015) or vcruntime140.dll can go missing if the Visual C++ redistributable isn’t installed or if malware/accidental deletion corrupts them.
• Wrong Redistributable Versions: Many apps are compiled for very specific versions. A 32-bit program needs the x86 redistributable, while 64-bit apps need the x64 one. Installing only one type (or the wrong year) still leads to errors.
• Broken Installations: Failed software installs, abrupt system shutdowns, or problematic Windows Updates can leave runtime libraries incomplete or corrupted.
• Outdated System Components: In rare cases, an outdated Windows installation won’t include the latest dependencies, even for new hardware or software.
• Application or System Conflicts: Poorly coded apps, registry problems, or conflicting programs can interfere with proper runtime detection and usage.

Critically, these problems often arise after a clean install of Windows 11, where many non-core libraries are absent by default. Even upgrading from Windows 10 may miss certain runtimes needed by legacy or newly installed software.

Typical Symptoms and How to Spot Runtime Library Issues​

Identifying a missing runtime isn’t always straightforward. The most visible clues often appear as error dialogs, but sometimes symptoms are subtle or appear in logs:

• DLL Not Found: The clearest symptom is an error stating “MSVCP140.dll is missing,” “VCRUNTIME140.dll not found,” or “The program can’t start because [DLL name] is missing from your computer.”
• 0xc000007b Error: A puzzling but common message, “The application was unable to start correctly (0xc000007b),” which often indicates a 32/64-bit mismatch or a missing bitness-specific redistributable.
• Side-by-Side Configuration Failure: Some errors reference “side-by-side configuration is incorrect.” These usually come from missing manifest files or Visual C++ dependencies in .NET or C++ applications.
• Silent Failures: Sometimes apps simply refuse to open, instantly crash, or generate Event Viewer logs referencing a missing DLL.
• Visual C++ Runtime Library Errors: Occasionally, a message titled “Microsoft Visual C++ Runtime Library” pops up, providing only a vague description of the error.

When in doubt, look for keywords in the error message—especially DLL names or numeric codes—and cross-reference them with Microsoft’s official documentation or the app publisher’s website.

Step-By-Step Solutions: Fixing Missing Runtime Libraries in Windows 11​

Resolving runtime library issues in Windows 11 follows a logical progression. These steps are ordered from the simplest, most likely fix to advanced troubleshooting. Trying them in order avoids unnecessary reinstalls or risky system changes.

1. Install or Repair Visual C++ Redistributables​

Start by checking what redistributables are already present:

• Open Control Panel → Programs and Features (or Settings → Apps → Installed Apps).
• Scan for entries titled “Microsoft Visual C++ Redistributable” (check for years like 2012, 2013, 2015–2022).
• For each one, click “Modify” (if available) and select “Repair.” This fixes minor corruptions efficiently.

If an error persists or repair isn’t an option:

• Uninstall all copies of Visual C++ Redistributables listed.
• Reboot your PC.
• Visit the official Microsoft Visual C++ Redistributable download page and download the latest versions for both x86 (32-bit) and x64 (64-bit) as needed.
• Run both installers, accepting the defaults. This ensures all essential DLLs are restored.

Pay close attention to which DLL your error referenced. For example, “MSVCP120.dll” means you need the Visual C++ 2013 redistributable, while “vcruntime140.dll” means the 2015–2022 version. Installing the newest “Microsoft Visual C++ Redistributable (2015–2022)” will—according to Microsoft and multiple sources—cover almost all modern software requirements.

2. Run System File Checker (SFC)​

Sometimes, system file corruption causes or exacerbates missing runtime errors. Windows' built-in SFC tool can address many such issues:

• Type cmd in Start, right-click Command Prompt, and select “Run as administrator.”
• Enter sfc /scannow and press Enter.
• Wait for the scan to complete (this can take several minutes).
• Reboot if prompted.

This process scans all protected system files (including system libraries tied to runtimes) and repairs any that are missing or modified, using backup copies.

3. Use DISM to Repair the Windows Image​

If SFC fails to fix the problem, the Deployment Image Servicing and Management (DISM) tool tackles deeper system image corruption:

• Again, in an elevated Command Prompt, run the following sequence:
• DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /RestoreHealth
• Wait as the tool downloads and repairs necessary system files from Windows Update.
• Reboot post-scan.

DISM is especially effective for systems that have missed critical updates or where previous repair attempts failed.

4. Run Windows Update​

Outdated Windows builds can miss runtime dependencies. Microsoft routinely issues critical DLL fixes and new redistributable versions via Windows Update:

• Go to Settings → Windows Update.
• Click “Check for updates” and install all pending items.
• Reboot your computer.

Ensuring your PC has the latest updates dramatically reduces runtime library errors, as Microsoft continually addresses known issues and improves compatibility.

5. Update Graphics and Other Drivers​

For issues triggered by games or multimedia apps, outdated drivers often interact badly with redistributables:

• Open Device Manager (devmgmt.msc).
• Expand Display adapters, right-click your GPU, and choose “Update driver” → “Search automatically.”
• Repeat for other relevant devices (audio, networking, etc.).
• Reboot after any successful driver update.

Sometimes, fresh drivers resolve obscure runtime errors that simple DLL fix attempts won’t touch—especially with new hardware.

6. Reinstall the Affected Program​

When a single app reports runtime library errors while others work fine, a bad install or incomplete prerequisite package is likely:

• Uninstall the program through Settings → Apps (or Control Panel).
• Reboot.
• Download the latest setup file from the program's official site.
• Reinstall, and if prompted, consent to install any “prerequisite” or “redistributable” software.
• Temporarily disable third-party antivirus, as it can block DLL installation.

Reinstallation is particularly effective with large apps or games, which often bundle their own redistributable installers. Make sure both the app and the related Visual C++ package are downloaded from reputable sources.

7. Additional Checks (For Stubborn or Unusual Errors)​

• If a particular DLL (like api-ms-win-crt-runtime-l1-1-0.dll) is missing, consult Microsoft or major tech forums for specific redistributable or Universal C Runtime updates.
• Try running the problematic app as “Administrator” (right-click → Run as administrator).
• In rare cases, use System Restore to revert Windows to a prior state before the error manifested.
• Check for malware or “PC cleaner” software that may have inadvertently removed key DLL files.

Critical Analysis: Strengths and Weaknesses of Windows 11’s Approach​

Microsoft’s reliance on redistributables enhances developer productivity and system modularity. It enables a lightweight OS footprint, offers more reliable security patching, and allows programs to co-exist even when built years apart with different tools.
Yet, the model is far from perfect. Key risks and drawbacks include:

Strengths​

• Efficiency and Reusability: Common code lives in one place, minimizing disk space and boosting code reliability.
• Backward Compatibility: New OS versions can support legacy software simply by carrying older redistributables.
• Rapid Security Patching: Microsoft can patch vulnerabilities in core libraries across all apps via system updates or redistributable packages.

Weaknesses and Risks​

• Dependency Hell: Users must manually install missing redistributables or troubleshoot version mismatches—something novices rarely understand.
• Error Obscurity: Windows generally fails to provide plain-language explanations when runtime libraries are missing, leading to user confusion.
• System Fragmentation: With many redistributables (often dozens), some DLLs are duplicated or unnecessarily bloating systems.
• Security Risks: Downloading DLLs from unofficial sources is risky, as attackers target desperate users searching for missing files.
• Bitness Confusion: 64-bit Windows 11 must often run both 32-bit and 64-bit redistributables. New users frequently install just one, creating avoidable errors.

While Microsoft offers extensive documentation, it is generally targeted at developers, meaning average users must rely on community support or articles like this one to resolve basic issues.

How to Prevent Future Missing Runtime Library Errors​

The best cure is prevention. IT managers, power users, and even average consumers can avoid runtime frustration by applying a few practical strategies:

• Keep Windows Up-To-Date: Run Windows Update regularly; it delivers cumulative updates for redistributables and core system files.
• Install Redistributables at Software Setup: Accept all “prerequisite” installs offered by new apps—especially games and creative tools.
• Use Trusted Sources Only: Never download DLLs individually from third-party sites. Instead, use Microsoft’s official redistributable packages or the publisher’s recommended links.
• System Maintenance: Run sfc /scannow and DISM /RestoreHealth as part of routine troubleshooting.
• Avoid Deleting System DLLs: Only remove software via the Control Panel or Settings, never by manually deleting files in system folders.
• Install Both x86 and x64 Redistributables: On 64-bit Windows, make sure both architectures are present to support all software.

Taking these steps not only protects you from current errors but lessens the risk of future issues as new apps and updates are released.

When All Else Fails: Seeking Expert Help​

If every recommended step still yields the same missing runtime library errors, deeper problems may exist within the Windows subsystem, hardware, or registry:

• Check Event Viewer: Look for Application Error logs for more specific error codes or DLL names.
• Consult the Windows Community: Forums like WindowsForum.com and Microsoft Answers offer troubleshooting advice for obscure problems.
• Consider Professional Support: Ongoing issues may warrant help from a qualified IT technician, especially before attempting risky options like a full system reinstall.
• Backup Before Drastic Measures: Always back up data before restoring Windows or making major changes.

Conclusion​

Missing runtime libraries are a common stumbling block on Windows 11, but their solutions are almost always accessible to everyday users. With a systematic approach—repairing or reinstalling Visual C++ Redistributables, running key system repair tools, and maintaining an updated system—most “DLL not found” and “side-by-side configuration incorrect” errors can be resolved in minutes. The core cause nearly always comes down to missing, out-of-date, or misconfigured Microsoft Visual C++ Redistributables. Installing the latest supported packages from Microsoft’s official channels quickly eliminates most compatibility woes.
Still, Microsoft’s approach—while technically sound—remains less user-friendly than ideal. The lack of clear messages, fragmented update processes, and confusion over redistributable versions make runtime errors unnecessarily intimidating. For the time being, studio developers and home users alike benefit from understanding these dependencies, installing both x86 and x64 redistributables, and keeping Windows patched and healthy.
A robust ecosystem means, for now, even stumbling blocks like missing runtime libraries are rarely insurmountable. Armed with clear instructions, most users can overcome these errors and keep their Windows 11 experience smooth, secure, and productive—regardless of what new versions or software launches appear on the horizon.

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Source: Windows Report How to Fix Missing Runtime Libraries in Windows 11 [2025 Guide]