How to Fix ‘Missing DLL’ Errors in Windows (e.g., VCRUNTIME140.dll): A Practical Guide

by | Aug 31, 2025 | Windows

TL;DR

If you see errors like ‘VCRUNTIME140.dll was not found’ when opening a program in Windows, don’t panic! This usually means your system is missing a critical Microsoft Visual C++ runtime file. The most reliable fix is to (re)install the latest Visual C++ Redistributable package from Microsoft. You can also use built-in system tools like SFC and DISM to repair corrupt files. Avoid downloading DLLs from random sites as it can be risky.

Understanding DLL Files & Errors in Windows

Let me start by explaining what a DLL is. DLL stands for Dynamic Link Library. These files store code and data that multiple programs can use at the same time. For example, vcruntime140.dll is needed by many games and apps built with Microsoft C++ tools. When a program can’t find the DLL it needs, you’ll get an error like:

  • The code execution cannot proceed because VCRUNTIME140.dll was not found.
  • Reinstalling the program may fix this problem.

This usually pops up when launching an application, especially after a fresh Windows install, major update, or installing new software that depends on these Microsoft runtime components^1.

Why Do DLL Errors Like VCRUNTIME140.dll Happen?

DLL errors can happen due to several reasons:

  • The DLL file is missing or deleted accidentally.
  • The DLL file is corrupted or incompatible.
  • A program install/uninstall removed or changed the DLL.
  • The wrong version of Visual C++ Redistributable is installed.
  • Malware or system errors have damaged system files.

If you’re seeing this error, you’re not alone. It’s a common headache for many Windows users, especially gamers and developers.

Step-by-Step: How I Fix ‘Missing DLL’ Errors in Windows

Let me walk you through the most reliable steps to fix these errors, using VCRUNTIME140.dll as an example. These methods apply to other DLL errors too, such as MSVCP140.dll.

Step 1: Reinstall the Microsoft Visual C++ Redistributable

This is the most effective fix for missing VCRUNTIME140.dll or MSVCP140.dll errors.

  1. Go to the official Microsoft Visual C++ Redistributable download page.
  2. Download the latest supported version (choose both x64 and x86 for maximum compatibility).
  3. Run the installer(s) and follow the on-screen instructions.
  4. Restart your computer.

Why do this? Because these runtime installers put all the necessary DLLs in the correct system folders, fixing most missing/corrupt DLL issues^5.

Step 2: Use System File Checker (SFC)

If reinstalling the runtime doesn’t work, Windows’ built-in SFC tool can help:

  1. Right-click the Start button and select Windows PowerShell (Admin) or Command Prompt (Admin).
  2. Type sfc /scannow and press Enter.
  3. Wait for the scan to finish. SFC will repair any corrupted or missing system files automatically.

Step 3: Use DISM to Repair Windows Image

If SFC finds issues it can’t fix, try DISM (Deployment Imaging Service & Management):

  1. Open an Admin Command Prompt.
  2. Type:
    • DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /RestoreHealth
  3. Press Enter and let it complete. This will repair the Windows image and can resolve deeper issues.

Step 4: Reinstall or Repair the Affected Program

Sometimes, the program itself is the problem. Try:

  • Uninstalling the program.
  • Restarting your PC.
  • Reinstalling the program.

Many installers will auto-detect and install missing dependencies (like the right Visual C++ version).

Step 5: Avoid Downloading DLLs from Unofficial Sites

You might see websites offering standalone DLL downloads. Don’t risk it. These files may be outdated or even infected with malware. Always use the official Microsoft redistributable packages for safety^3.

Case Study: Fixing VCRUNTIME140.dll Error After Windows Update

Let me share a real-life example. After a major Windows 11 update, I tried to launch a graphics tool and got the dreaded VCRUNTIME140.dll is missing error. Here’s how I fixed it:

  • I uninstalled and reinstalled the Visual C++ Redistributable (both x64 and x86).
  • Ran sfc /scannow (it found some issues and fixed them).
  • Rebooted my system.
  • The program launched perfectly after that.

In most cases, following the above steps will resolve your DLL errors too.

Pros and Cons of Different Fixes

Let’s quickly compare the main methods:

Method Pros Cons
Visual C++ Redistributable Official, safe, fixes most DLL issues Needs admin rights
SFC/DISM Tools Fixes system corruption, built-in Can’t fix all DLLs
Reinstalling the program Fixes program-specific issues Time-consuming
Downloading standalone DLLs Quick (in theory) Risk of malware, version mismatch

As you can see, the official Microsoft method is safest and most effective for VCRUNTIME140.dll and similar errors.

Comparison: VCRUNTIME140.dll vs. Other Common DLL Errors

While VCRUNTIME140.dll is a frequent culprit, here are some others you may run into:

  • MSVCP140.dll: Also from Visual C++, used by many apps.
  • VCRUNTIME140_1.dll: Newer version required by some programs.
  • D3DX9_43.dll: Part of DirectX, needed for graphics-heavy games.
  • api-ms-win-crt-runtime-l1-1-0.dll: Universal CRT, required by modern C++ programs.

Fixing Process: For all of these, the fix is usually the same: install the correct Microsoft redistributable package or DirectX runtime.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Here are some pitfalls I’ve seen (and made myself!):

  • Downloading DLLs from untrusted websites (can infect your PC)
  • Not installing both x64 and x86 redistributables (some apps need the 32-bit version)
  • Ignoring Windows Updates (leads to outdated system files)
  • Not rebooting after repairs (sometimes changes aren’t applied until restart)

Troubleshooting Checklist

Here’s a quick checklist I follow:

  • Install latest Visual C++ Redistributable (x64 & x86)
  • Run sfc /scannow to repair system files
  • Use DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /RestoreHealth if SFC fails
  • Reinstall affected program
  • Update Windows
  • Reboot PC after each major step
  • Avoid third-party DLL download sites

Glossary

  • DLL (Dynamic Link Library): Shared program library used by multiple Windows applications.
  • Visual C++ Redistributable: Microsoft’s package that installs C++ runtime libraries required by many programs.
  • SFC (System File Checker): Windows tool to repair system files.
  • DISM: Advanced Windows tool to repair system images.
  • x64/x86: 64-bit and 32-bit architecture installers.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q1: Is it safe to download DLL files from the internet?
No. It’s risky and can lead to malware or unstable software. Always use official Microsoft packages.

Q2: Which Visual C++ Redistributable version do I need?
Usually, the latest supported version (2015–2022) covers most needs. Install both x64 and x86.^5

Q3: What if SFC and DISM don’t fix the error?
Try uninstalling and reinstalling the affected program. If that fails, consider a Windows repair install.

Q4: Can updating Windows fix DLL errors?
Yes, sometimes. Updates can include missing/corrected system files and runtime libraries.

Q5: Why do some games require specific DLLs?
Games and programs built with Microsoft tools depend on certain DLLs for performance and graphics.

Conclusion: My Practical Recommendations

I know DLL errors can be frustrating, but they’re almost always fixable with the right approach. Start with the official Microsoft Visual C++ Redistributable, use SFC and DISM if needed, and avoid shortcuts like random DLL downloads. Remember to install both the 32-bit and 64-bit versions for full compatibility. If you’re stuck, reinstall the affected program or seek official support.

Still facing issues? Drop a comment below or contact your IT support team for personalised help!

References

Step-by-Step: How I Fixed VCRUNTIME140.dll Errors on My PC

If you’re still unsure about the process, here’s exactly how I tackled the issue on my own machine:

Step 1: Identifying the Problem

I first took note of the error message and which program was throwing it. In my case, it was a game that failed to launch, citing the missing VCRUNTIME140.dll.

Step 2: Installing the Latest Visual C++ Redistributable

I went straight to Microsoft’s official site and downloaded the latest Visual C++ Redistributable for both x64 and x86 systems. I made sure to close all open applications before starting the installation.^5

Step 3: Running SFC and DISM

Just to be thorough, I opened Windows PowerShell as an administrator and ran the following commands:

  • sfc /scannow
  • DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /RestoreHealth

This step ensured that there weren’t any underlying system file issues.^1

Step 4: Restarting and Testing

After installing the redistributable and verifying system files, I rebooted my PC. I then launched the problematic program, and—success! No more DLL error.

Step 5: Reinstalling the Program (If Needed)

If the error had persisted, my next step would have been to uninstall and reinstall the affected app. In rare cases, a clean program reinstall ensures it registers the correct runtime dependencies.

Step 6: Updating Windows

As an extra precaution, I ran Windows Update to make sure my system was fully up to date, since Microsoft sometimes pushes out relevant patches this way.^4

Pros and Cons of Each Solution

Here’s what I found after trying every approach:

Microsoft Visual C++ Redistributable

Pros:

  • Official, safe, and supports most modern software.
  • Quick to install and regularly updated.
  • Covers many different DLL dependencies at once.

Cons:

  • Requires admin rights.
  • May not fix legacy software that needs older redistributables.

System File Checker (SFC) & DISM

Pros:

  • Repairs corrupted or missing system files.
  • Built into Windows, so no downloads needed.

Cons:

  • Doesn’t always fix third-party program DLL issues.
  • Can’t repair files missing due to faulty installs.

Reinstalling the Program

Pros:

  • Ensures the app has all its required files and dependencies.
  • Can fix issues specific to a single program.

Cons:

  • Time-consuming, especially for large games or apps.
  • Might not help if the root problem is missing system libraries.

Downloading DLL Files from the Internet

Pros:

  • May offer a quick fix for advanced users in test environments.

Cons:

  • Extremely risky! Often leads to malware or unstable systems.
  • Not recommended for normal users.^3

More Frequently Asked Questions

Q6: Can I use a single Visual C++ package for all my programs?
Usually, yes—installing the latest (2015–2022) redistributable covers most needs. Some older or niche apps might require a specific version, though.^5

Q7: What if my antivirus is blocking VCRUNTIME140.dll?
Temporarily disable your antivirus and reinstall the Visual C++ Redistributable. If that doesn’t help, consider adding an exception for the affected program.

Q8: Do I need to install the redistributable for both x86 and x64?
Yes, if you run both 32-bit and 64-bit programs. Most modern PCs will benefit from having both installed.^5

Q9: Will this error affect my PC’s security?
The error itself isn’t a security risk—but downloading DLL files from unofficial sources absolutely is. Always stick to Microsoft downloads.

Q10: Can I uninstall older Visual C++ Redistributable versions?
Generally, you shouldn’t; some legacy programs might still need them. Multiple versions can co-exist safely.

My Final Thoughts

Personally, I’ve found that sticking with official tools and keeping my system updated solves 99% of DLL issues. Avoid the temptation to grab random DLLs off the web—it’s rarely worth the risk. If you follow the step-by-step approach above, you’ll save yourself a lot of future headaches.

And if you do hit a wall, don’t hesitate to reach out for help in tech forums or contact your software vendor. There’s almost always a solution—sometimes it just takes a bit of patience and the right approach!