Steps to Resolve the “VCRUNTIME140.dll Is Missing” Issue on Windows 10

Steps to Resolve the “VCRUNTIME140.dll Is Missing” Issue on Windows 10

If you use Windows 10, you may have encountered an error message saying that VCRUNTIME140.dll is missing. This error typically pops up when you try to run certain applications, especially software that depends on Microsoft Visual C++ Redistributable files. While the error message can be frustrating, the good news is that it can be fixed relatively easily.

In this guide, we’ll explain what the VCRUNTIME140.dll file is, why the error occurs, and several proven methods to resolve it on your Windows 10 PC.

What Is the VCRUNTIME140.dll File?

The VCRUNTIME140.dll file is part of the Microsoft Visual C++ Redistributable package. This package contains essential runtime components required by many applications developed with Visual Studio.

When the file is missing, corrupted, or improperly installed, Windows cannot launch the program that depends on it, resulting in the error message. Common applications that may trigger this issue include Skype, Adobe software, games, and even Microsoft Office.

Common Causes of the Error

The “VCRUNTIME140.dll is missing” error can appear for different reasons, such as:

• The file was accidentally deleted.

• Corruption in the Microsoft Visual C++ Redistributable package.

• Malware or viruses damaging system files.

• Incomplete installation of software that relies on the DLL file.

• Conflicts between multiple versions of Visual C++ libraries.

Identifying the cause helps narrow down which fix will work best.

Method 1: Reinstall the Microsoft Visual C++ Redistributable

The most effective and common solution is reinstalling the Visual C++ Redistributable package.

Steps to Reinstall:

1. Go to the official Microsoft website and search for Visual C++ Redistributable for Visual Studio 2015, 2017, 2019, and 2022.

2. Download both the x86 (vc_redist.x86.exe) and x64 (vc_redist.x64.exe) versions.

3. Run the downloaded installers and follow the on-screen instructions.

4. Restart your computer.

After rebooting, try launching the program again to see if the error is resolved.

Method 2: Repair the Visual C++ Redistributable Installation

If the package is already installed, repairing it may fix corrupted files without needing a complete reinstall.

Steps to Repair:

1. Press Windows + R, type appwiz.cpl, and hit Enter.

2. In the Programs and Features window, locate Microsoft Visual C++ Redistributable.

3. Select it and click Change.

4. Choose Repair from the menu and let Windows fix the installation.

5. Restart your PC once the process is complete.

This is often quicker than reinstalling and can resolve minor issues with the DLL.

Method 3: Copy the DLL File from Another Computer

If you have access to another computer running the same version of Windows 10, you can copy the VCRUNTIME140.dll file manually.

Steps to Copy:

1. On the working PC, navigate to:
   C:\Windows\System32 (for 64-bit)
   C:\Windows\SysWOW64 (for 32-bit).

2. Locate the VCRUNTIME140.dll file.

3. Copy it onto a USB drive.

4. Paste it into the same directory on your computer.

This method should be used cautiously. Only copy from a trusted computer to avoid compatibility or malware issues.

Method 4: Reinstall the Problematic Program

Sometimes the error only appears when launching a specific app. In that case, reinstalling the program itself might fix missing or corrupted files.

Steps to Reinstall:

1. Press Windows + I to open Settings.

2. Go to Apps > Apps & features.

3. Find the problematic program, select it, and click Uninstall.

4. Restart your computer.

5. Download the latest version of the software from the official website and reinstall it.

This ensures that the app has all the required dependencies, including the DLL file.

Method 5: Run System File Checker (SFC) Scan

Corrupted system files may cause the error. Running the built-in SFC tool can help restore missing or damaged files.

Steps to Run SFC:

1. Press Windows + S and search for Command Prompt.

2. Right-click and select Run as administrator.

3. Type the following command and press Enter:

   sfc /scannow


4. Wait for the scan to complete.

5. Restart your computer.

If Windows detects missing or corrupted files, it will automatically repair them.

Method 6: Run Windows Update

Sometimes updating Windows can fix DLL-related errors by installing the latest system files.

1. Open Settings by pressing Windows + I.

2. Navigate to Update & Security > Windows Update.

3. Click Check for updates.

4. Install any available updates and restart your computer.

Windows updates often include updated runtime libraries that can resolve the missing DLL issue.

Method 7: Scan for Malware

Malicious software can delete or corrupt system files, including DLLs. Running a full system scan ensures your system is not infected.

1. Open Windows Security from the Start menu.

2. Select Virus & threat protection.

3. Click Quick scan or choose Full scan for a deeper check.

4. Remove any detected threats.

After cleaning malware, you may need to reinstall the Visual C++ Redistributable package.

Preventing Future DLL Errors

To avoid encountering similar errors in the future, here are some helpful tips:

• Keep Windows and all drivers up to date.

• Regularly update Microsoft Visual C++ Redistributables.

• Avoid downloading DLL files from untrusted websites.

• Use reliable antivirus software and scan frequently.

• When installing software, complete the installation process without interruptions.

Conclusion

The “VCRUNTIME140.dll is missing” error on Windows 10 can be frustrating, but it is usually easy to fix. In most cases, reinstalling or repairing the Microsoft Visual C++ Redistributable package will solve the issue. Other solutions like running SFC scans, reinstalling the affected program, or updating Windows can also help.

By following the methods outlined in this guide, you can quickly restore functionality to your applications and prevent similar errors in the future. Always ensure you download files from trusted sources and keep your system updated to maintain stability and security.