Understanding the VCRUNTIME140.dll Not Found Error: Causes and Solutions

The VCRUNTIME140.dll not found error is a common issue experienced by Windows users, particularly when running applications that rely on Microsoft Visual C++ Redistributable packages. This missing DLL file can prevent programs from starting, displaying messages such as "VCRUNTIME140.dll was not found" or "The program can't start because VCRUNTIME140.dll is missing from your computer." In this article, we’ll explore the possible reasons behind this error, offer a step-by-step guide to resolve it, and provide tips for preventing it in the future.

Causes of the VCRUNTIME140.dll Not Found Error

1. Corrupted or Deleted VCRUNTIME140.dll File
   The most straightforward reason for this error is that the VCRUNTIME140.dll file, which is part of the Microsoft Visual C++ Redistributable package, has been accidentally deleted or corrupted. This can happen due to running disk cleanup tools, removing software that shared the file, or malware infection that targets system libraries.
2. Missing Visual C++ Redistributable Package
   Many applications are built using Microsoft Visual C++, and they require certain redistributable packages to function. If the Visual C++ Redistributable for Visual Studio 2015 or other versions is not installed properly, applications looking for VCRUNTIME140.dll will fail to locate it.
3. Incompatible or Outdated Software Versions
   Sometimes, after updating Windows or specific programs, there may be a compatibility problem between the new and old libraries, resulting in a missing or incompatible version of DLL files.
4. Faulty Application Installations
   If an application did not install correctly or was interrupted mid-installation, required DLL files, including VCRUNTIME140.dll, may not have been placed in the proper folders.
5. System File Corruption
   More serious issues with system integrity, such as corrupted Windows files, can also cause DLL errors, preventing standard operations of software that depends on these files.

Step-by-Step Instructions to Fix the VCRUNTIME140.dll Error

1. Restart Your Computer
   Before taking more involved steps, reboot your system. Occasionally, the error is due to a temporary loading glitch or an incomplete update. A simple restart may resolve the issue.
2. Install the Microsoft Visual C++ Redistributable Package
   The vast majority of VCRUNTIME140.dll errors occur because the required Visual C++ files are missing. Download the latest supported version from Microsoft’s official website. Here’s how:
   • Visit the official Microsoft Download page for Visual C++ Redistributables.
   • Download both the x86 (32-bit) and x64 (64-bit) versions, as some applications may require one or the other.
   • Run the installers and follow the prompts to complete installation.
   • Restart your computer and try running the problematic application again.
3. Repair the Visual C++ Redistributable
   If you already have the redistributable installed but still see the error, it may be corrupted.
   • Open Settings (Windows + I), go to "Apps," then "Apps & features."
   • Locate "Microsoft Visual C++ 20XX Redistributable" from the list (20XX represents the years, e.g., 2015, 2017, 2019, or 2022).
   • Select it and click "Modify," then choose "Repair" in the installer window.
   • Complete the process and restart your computer.
4. Copy the DLL File from Another System (Advanced)
   If the above steps fail and you have access to a working computer running the same version of Windows, you can copy the VCRUNTIME140.dll file from the other system’s C:\Windows\System32 folder into your own.
   
   • Do not download DLL files from untrusted sources, as these can be malicious.
   • After copying, if you’re running 64-bit Windows, ensure the DLL is also present in C:\Windows\SysWOW64.
5. Reinstall the Problematic Application
   Sometimes applications bundle their own required libraries. Uninstalling and reinstalling the program triggering the error forces it to restore missing or corrupt files.
   • Go to "Settings" > "Apps."
   • Find the faulty application, click "Uninstall," and then reinstall it using an official installer.
6. Run System File Checker (SFC)
   Corrupted system files can lead to all sorts of errors, including missing DLLs. Use the SFC tool:
   • Open the Command Prompt as administrator (search for "cmd," then right-click and choose "Run as administrator").
   • Type sfc /scannow and press Enter.
   • Wait for the scan and repair process to complete, then restart your computer.
7. Update Windows
   Ensuring Windows is up to date brings in the latest system updates and bug fixes, including improved compatibility for DLL files.
   • Go to "Settings" > "Update & Security" > "Windows Update."
   • Click "Check for updates" and install any available.
8. Perform a Malware Scan
   A virus or malware may target files like VCRUNTIME140.dll. Run a full system scan using your preferred antivirus software and allow it to remove any threats found.
9. Contact Software Support
   If none of the above solutions work, consult the official support channels of the problematic software. There may be unique dependencies or known issues they can help resolve.

Conclusion

The VCRUNTIME140.dll not found error is a frustrating obstacle for many Windows users, but it generally stems from missing or corrupted components of the Microsoft Visual C++ Redistributable package. By understanding the underlying causes—from accidental deletion to corrupt installations or system file issues—you can methodically troubleshoot and resolve the problem. Always start by installing or repairing the official Visual C++ Redistributable, and avoid downloading DLL files from unofficial sources to minimize security risks. With the step-by-step solutions provided, most users will be able to swiftly restore functionality without needing to resort to technical support. Should issues persist after these fixes, more detailed system diagnostics or professional help may be necessary to identify deeper system problems.