MSVCP140 DLL: What It Is and How to Fix Errors

If you’ve recently tried to launch a program on your Windows computer and were halted by an error message mentioning MSVCP140.dll, you’re not alone. This missing or corrupted DLL file is a common culprit behind frustrating application launches, particularly for gamers and users of graphics or software development tools. In this article, we’ll break down what MSVCP140.dll is, why this error occurs, and provide a comprehensive guide on how you can resolve it, getting your software running smoothly again.

Section 1: Why Does the MSVCP140.dll Error Occur?

Before diving into solutions, it’s important to understand what MSVCP140.dll is and why its absence or corruption leads to errors.

MSVCP140.dll is a Dynamic Link Library file that is part of the Microsoft Visual C++ Redistributable package for Visual Studio 2015, 2017, 2019, and 2022. Essentially, this DLL contains functions and code that various Windows programs rely on to run. If this file is missing, outdated, or corrupted, any program that depends on it—such as games, editing software, and productivity applications—will fail to launch and show an error like “The program can’t start because MSVCP140.dll is missing from your computer”.

Common reasons behind the MSVCP140.dll issue include:

• Accidental Deletion: Sometimes, users inadvertently delete this DLL while cleaning up files or uninstalling software.
• Incomplete or Failed Software Installations: If a software installation is interrupted or doesn’t finish properly, it might not include or properly register this crucial DLL.
• Corruption by Malware: Malicious software can damage or remove essential system files, including MSVCP140.dll.
• Outdated or Missing Visual C++ Redistributable: If the correct version of the Visual C++ Redistributable is not installed, programs won’t be able to find the DLL they need.

Understanding these causes is fundamental to choosing the right fix, ensuring you approach the problem with the most effective solution.

Section 2: How to Fix MSVCP140.dll Errors – Step-by-Step Guide

When facing an MSVCP140.dll-related error, there are several solutions you can try. Here’s a step-by-step guide to troubleshooting and resolving this problem:

1. Restart Your Computer
   Before making major changes, begin by simply rebooting your PC. Temporary glitches can sometimes prevent Windows from recognizing DLL files. If a restart doesn’t resolve the problem, proceed to the next steps.
2. Install or Repair the Microsoft Visual C++ Redistributable Package
   The most reliable way to fix missing DLL errors is to install or repair the associated Visual C++ Redistributable package:
   1. Visit the official Microsoft Visual C++ Redistributable download page. Choose the package version that matches your program—most often, this is Visual C++ 2015-2019 (x86 or x64, depending on whether your Windows is 32-bit or 64-bit).
   2. Download and run the installer. If prompted, choose the “Repair” option if an existing installation is detected. Otherwise, proceed with a fresh installation.
   3. Reboot your system and try launching the program again.
3. Check for Windows Updates
   Out-of-date system software can also create compatibility issues:
   • Open Settings > Update & Security > Windows Update.
   • Click “Check for updates” and install all available updates.
   • Restart your computer and check the problematic program.
4. Reinstall the Problematic Program
   If the error persists with a specific app, reinstalling it may solve the issue:
   • Uninstall the program through Control Panel > Programs and Features.
   • Re-download the latest version from the official website.
   • Install the software, which should refresh its dependencies and associated DLLs.
5. Restore MSVCP140.dll from the Recycle Bin
   Sometimes the file is simply misplaced or deleted:
   • Open the Recycle Bin and search for MSVCP140.dll.
   • If found, right-click and choose “Restore.”
6. Run a System File Checker (SFC) Scan
   Corruption in the system files can trigger DLL errors. Run the built-in Windows System File Checker to repair them:
   1. Open Command Prompt as an administrator (right-click Start > Command Prompt (Admin) or Windows Terminal (Admin)).
   2. Type sfc /scannow and hit Enter.
   3. The scan may take several minutes. When it’s finished, follow on-screen instructions if issues are detected.
7. Scan for Malware
   Viruses and malware can corrupt system files, including DLLs. Run a complete antivirus scan using Windows Defender or another trusted tool to clean your computer.
8. Avoid Downloading DLLs from Third-Party Sites
   It might be tempting to simply download the missing file from the internet. However, this is strongly discouraged as such files can be outdated, malicious, or incompatible, leading to further issues.
9. Seek Professional Help
   If the problem persists after all these steps, there may be deeper system integrity issues. Contacting Microsoft support or a trusted IT professional can provide additional assistance.

Section 3: Conclusion

MSVCP140.dll is a vital component for running many modern Windows applications, designed to provide key functionality from Microsoft’s Visual C++ library. When this file is missing or corrupted, it’s likely due to uninstallations, failed installations, system corruption, or malware activity. Fortunately, this error is almost always repairable through simple steps such as installing the latest Visual C++ Redistributable, updating Windows, conducting system scans, or reinstalling affected applications.

By following the guided steps above, you can confidently resolve most MSVCP140.dll issues and restore normal operation to your computer. Remember to stay cautious: avoid downloading DLL files from untrusted sources and keep both your software and operating system updated to prevent similar problems in the future. This proactive approach will ensure smoother app launches and a more reliable computing experience.