How to Fix MSVCP140.dll missing (Various Windows Applications)
Quick Answer
The 'MSVCP140.dll missing' error indicates that a required Microsoft Visual C++ Redistributable file is absent or corrupted on your system. This file is essential for many Windows applications to run. The fastest fix is often to install the correct Microsoft Visual C++ Redistributable package.
What Causes This Error
- The Microsoft Visual C++ Redistributable package, which contains MSVCP140.dll, is not installed.
- The installed Microsoft Visual C++ Redistributable package is corrupted or incomplete.
- The MSVCP140.dll file was accidentally deleted or moved.
- A software installation or uninstallation process incorrectly modified or removed the DLL file.
- The operating system or the application requiring the DLL is outdated.
- Malware infection has corrupted or removed system files, including MSVCP140.dll.
Step-by-Step Fixes
1Install the Microsoft Visual C++ Redistributable for Visual Studio 2015, 2017, 2019, and 2022
- Navigate to the official Microsoft Visual C++ Redistributable download page using a web browser.
- Locate the section for 'Visual Studio 2015, 2017, 2019, and 2022'. Download both the 'vc_redist.x64.exe' (for 64-bit systems) and 'vc_redist.x86.exe' (for 32-bit systems) files. Even on a 64-bit system, some applications may require the 32-bit version.
- Run 'vc_redist.x64.exe' first. If prompted, select 'Repair' if it's already installed, or 'Install' if it's not. Follow the on-screen instructions to complete the process.
- Next, run 'vc_redist.x86.exe'. Again, choose 'Repair' or 'Install' as appropriate and follow the prompts.
- Restart your computer after both installations are complete to ensure all changes take effect. Then, attempt to launch the application that was displaying the 'MSVCP140.dll missing' error.
2Reinstall the Program Causing the MSVCP140.dll Missing Error
- Open the 'Settings' application by pressing the Windows key + I, then navigate to 'Apps' > 'Apps & features'. Alternatively, open 'Control Panel' and select 'Programs and Features'.
- Locate the program that is generating the 'MSVCP140.dll missing' error in the list of installed applications.
- Select the program and click 'Uninstall'. Follow any on-screen prompts to completely remove the application from your system.
- Restart your computer after the uninstallation is finished.
- Download the latest version of the program from its official website or original installation media. Install the program following the manufacturer's instructions. This process often includes installing necessary runtime components like MSVCP140.dll.
3Run a System File Checker (SFC) Scan
- Open the Start menu, type 'cmd', right-click on 'Command Prompt' in the search results, and select 'Run as administrator'.
- In the Command Prompt window, type 'sfc /scannow' and press Enter. Ensure there is a space between 'sfc' and '/scannow'.
- Allow the scan to complete. This process may take several minutes. The System File Checker will scan for corrupted or missing Windows system files, including DLLs, and attempt to repair them.
- Upon completion, you will receive a message indicating whether any integrity violations were found and if they were successfully repaired. If repairs were made, restart your computer.
- Attempt to run the problematic application again to check if the MSVCP140.dll error has been resolved.
4Perform a Windows Update
- Open the 'Settings' application by pressing the Windows key + I.
- Navigate to 'Update & Security' (on Windows 10) or 'Windows Update' (on Windows 11).
- Click on 'Check for updates'. Allow Windows to search for, download, and install any available updates.
- If updates are found, install them and restart your computer when prompted. Some updates may include newer versions of system components or libraries that resolve DLL issues.
- After the restart, re-check for updates to ensure no further updates are pending, then test the application.
Advanced Fixes
Register the MSVCP140.dll File Manually
- Open the Start menu, type 'cmd', right-click on 'Command Prompt' and select 'Run as administrator'.
- To unregister the existing (potentially corrupt) DLL, type 'regsvr32 /u MSVCP140.dll' and press Enter. You may receive a message indicating success or failure.
- To register the DLL, type 'regsvr32 MSVCP140.dll' and press Enter. You should receive a confirmation message that the DLL was successfully registered.
- If you encounter an error during registration, ensure the MSVCP140.dll file is present in 'C:\Windows\System32' (for 64-bit systems) or 'C:\Windows\SysWOW64' (for 32-bit applications on 64-bit systems). You may need to copy a known good version of the DLL to these locations after installing the Visual C++ Redistributable.
- Restart your computer and retest the application.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is MSVCP140.dll?
MSVCP140.dll is a Dynamic Link Library file that is part of the Microsoft Visual C++ Redistributable for Visual Studio 2015, 2017, 2019, and 2022. It contains functions and resources used by programs developed with Microsoft Visual C++, enabling them to run correctly on Windows operating systems.
Is MSVCP140.dll a virus?
No, MSVCP140.dll is a legitimate system file developed by Microsoft. However, malware can sometimes disguise itself with similar names or infect legitimate DLL files. If you suspect a virus, run a full scan with reputable antivirus software.
Can I download MSVCP140.dll from a third-party website?
It is strongly recommended to only obtain MSVCP140.dll by installing the official Microsoft Visual C++ Redistributable package. Downloading DLL files from unofficial third-party websites can expose your system to malware, outdated versions, or corrupted files, potentially causing more issues.
Why do I need both x86 and x64 versions of the redistributable?
Even on a 64-bit Windows operating system, many applications are still compiled as 32-bit programs. These 32-bit applications require the x86 (32-bit) version of the Visual C++ Redistributable, while 64-bit applications require the x64 (64-bit) version. Installing both ensures compatibility with all types of applications.
What if reinstalling the program didn't fix the MSVCP140.dll error?
If reinstalling the program did not resolve the error, it indicates that the core issue is likely with the system-wide Visual C++ Redistributable installation or other Windows system files. In this case, proceed with installing or repairing the Microsoft Visual C++ Redistributable package directly, running an SFC scan, or performing Windows Updates.