How to Fix Vcruntime140 DLL Was Not Found Error in Windows

If you’re seeing the ‘vcruntime140.dll was not found’ error on your Windows PC, it can prevent you from opening applications, especially those that depend on Visual C++ Redistributables. This guide walks you through simple, effective steps to resolve this issue, restoring your system’s functionality. Before starting, ensure your Windows is up to date and that you have administrator privileges on your computer. Having a stable internet connection is also helpful for downloading necessary files.

What You’ll Need

• Internet connection
• Administrator access to your Windows PC
• Optional: a backup of your system in case you need to restore

Step-by-Step

1. Identify the Affected Application
   
   First, determine which application is prompting the error. It might be a game, a software tool, or a system component. Knowing this helps decide whether to repair or reinstall specific packages.
2. Restart Your Computer
   
   Sometimes, a simple restart can resolve temporary glitches. Save your work, reboot your system, and check if the error persists.
3. Update Windows
   
   Ensure your Windows OS is fully updated. Go to Settings > Update & Security > Windows Update, then click ‘Check for updates.’ Install all available updates and restart your PC.
4. Download and Install the Visual C++ Redistributable
   
   Since the vcruntime140.dll is part of the Visual C++ Redistributables, download the latest version from the official Microsoft website. Visit the Microsoft Visual C++ Redistributable download page, select the correct version (usually the x64 version for 64-bit systems), and install it. Follow the on-screen instructions, then reboot your PC.
5. Manually Register the DLL File
   
   If the DLL file exists but isn’t registered properly, you can manually register it. Open Command Prompt as Administrator (search ‘cmd,’ right-click, select ‘Run as administrator’) and type:

   regsvr32 vcruntime140.dll

   Press Enter. If successful, you’ll see a confirmation message. If not, proceed to the next step.

6. Restore the DLL from a Trusted Source
   
   If the DLL file is missing, you can try to restore it. Download vcruntime140.dll from a reputable source or extract it from a Windows installation media. Place the DLL in the application’s folder or in the system directory: C:\Windows\System32\ (for 64-bit) or C:\Windows\SysWOW64\ (for 32-bit). Be cautious to avoid malware.
7. Run System File Checker (SFC)
   
   This utility scans and repairs corrupted system files. Open Command Prompt as Administrator and type:

   sfc /scannow

   Wait for the process to complete. It may fix missing or corrupted DLL files automatically.

8. Reinstall the Affected Application
   
   If the error persists, uninstall the problematic application. Then, download the latest installer from the official website and reinstall it. This often replaces missing DLLs and fixes compatibility issues.
9. Perform a System Restore
   
   If none of the above steps work, consider restoring your system to a previous point when everything was functioning correctly. Search for ‘System Restore’ in the Start menu, follow the prompts, and select a restore point prior to the issue.

Common Mistakes

• Downloading DLL files from untrusted websites, risking malware infection.
• Incorrectly registering DLL files or placing them in wrong directories.
• Ignoring Windows updates, which can cause compatibility issues.
• Uninstalling essential system components without proper knowledge.
• Using outdated or incompatible Visual C++ Redistributables.

Tips

• Always back up your system before making significant changes.
• Keep your Windows OS and drivers updated regularly.
• Use official Microsoft sources for downloading system files and redistributables.
• Run a full antivirus scan to ensure no malware is causing DLL issues.
• Consider using system repair tools if errors persist after manual fixes.

Troubleshooting

If you follow these steps and still encounter the ‘vcruntime140.dll was not found’ error, try the following:

• Verify that the DLL file exists in the correct directory. If not, manually place it as described above.
• Check for Windows updates again to ensure all system components are current.
• Run the Windows Troubleshooter: go to Settings > Update & Security > Troubleshoot, and select relevant options.
• Use a trusted third-party repair tool to scan and fix system issues.
• If the error appears after a recent change, consider undoing that change or performing a system restore.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What causes the vcruntime140.dll error?

This error typically occurs due to missing or corrupted Visual C++ Redistributable files, system file corruption, or malware infections.

2. Can I fix this error without reinstalling Windows?

Yes, most cases can be resolved by repairing the Visual C++ Redistributables, running system file checks, or restoring system files, without needing a full OS reinstall.

3. Is it safe to download DLL files from the internet?

Generally, it’s safer to obtain DLL files from official sources or reinstall the related software rather than downloading from third-party websites, which may host malware.

4. How do I know if my system needs a Windows update?

Go to Settings > Update & Security > Windows Update, then click ‘Check for updates.’ Install all available updates to ensure system stability.

5. What should I do if the error keeps coming back?

Persistent errors may indicate deeper system issues. Try repairing or reinstalling Visual C++ Redistributables, running system scans, or consulting a professional if needed.

Fixing the ‘vcruntime140.dll was not found’ error can be straightforward if you follow these steps carefully. Regular maintenance and keeping your system updated help prevent similar issues in the future, ensuring your Windows experience remains smooth and trouble-free.

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