Download and Install vcruntime140.dll on Windows
vcruntime140.dll is a small but essential file. It's part of Microsoft's Visual C++ Redistributable package. This DLL helps many Windows apps run smoothly. If it's missing, programs can crash or refuse to start. You'll see error messages like The program can't start because vcruntime140.dll is missing from your computer. That's annoying. But it's easy to fix.
You'll find vcruntime140.dll in both 32-bit and 64-bit versions. Most modern PCs use windows 64 bit. But some apps still need the 32-bit file. Both versions live in different folders:
- 32-bit DLL: C:\Windows\SysWOW64\
- 64-bit DLL: C:\Windows\System32\
Why Does vcruntime140.dll Matter?
Games, creative software, and even office apps need this file. It handles memory management, exception handling, and other core tasks. Without it, apps built with Visual C++ just won't work. Some popular programs that rely on vcruntime140.dll:
- GTA V
- Minecraft
- Adobe Photoshop
- Valorant
- Epic Games Launcher
And the list goes on. Missing vcruntime140.dll can block your workflow. Sometimes, a Windows update or a botched install damages this file. That's when errors start popping up.
Key Features of vcruntime140.dll and vcruntime140-1.dll
- Universal support: Works on Windows 7, 8, 10, and 11.
- Critical runtime functions: Handles memory, exceptions, and C/C++ library calls.
- Compatibility: Needed for apps built with Visual Studio 2015, 2017, 2019, or newer.
- Automatic updates: When installed through Microsoft's package, it updates with Windows.
- vcruntime140-1.dll: A related file. Some newer apps need this one too. If you see errors about vcruntime140-1.dll, the fix is the same: install or repair the Visual C++ Redistributable.
Common Errors and What Causes Them
- vcruntime140.dll not found
- The code execution cannot proceed because vcruntime140.dll was not found
- vcruntime140.dll is either not designed to run on Windows or it contains an error
- Error loading vcruntime140.dll
- vcruntime140-1.dll is missing from your computer
These errors usually mean the file is missing, corrupted, or the wrong version. Sometimes, a program update requires a newer DLL. Or the installer just forgot to include it.
How to Download vcruntime140.dll
So, where do you get it? There are two safe ways:
- Official Microsoft Visual C++ Redistributable: Always the best choice. Go to Microsoft's site, download the package for your system (32-bit or 64-bit), and install it. This covers both vcruntime140.dll and vcruntime140-1.dll.
- Manual DLL download: Only use trusted sources. Download the correct version (32 or 64 bit), unzip it, and place it in the right folder. But be careful. Unofficial sites can hide malware in DLL files. Stick with well-known sources or Microsoft's own downloads.
And don't forget: If you're on windows 64 bit, you need both versions for maximum compatibility.
How to Install vcruntime140.dll
Install via Microsoft Visual C++ Redistributable
- Download the latest Visual C++ Redistributable package from Microsoft.
- Run the installer. Accept the terms. Click Install.
- Let it finish. Restart your PC.
- Your apps should work now.
Manual DLL Installation
- Download vcruntime140.dll (32-bit and 64-bit) from a reputable site.
- Unzip the files.
- Copy the 32-bit DLL to C:\Windows\SysWOW64\
- Copy the 64-bit DLL to C:\Windows\System32\
- Restart your PC.
Some programs want the DLL in their own folder. If you still get errors, drop the file directly into the app's directory. For example:
C:\Program Files (x86)\Skype for Desktop\vcruntime140.dll
And sometimes, a simple reinstall of the affected app solves the issue.
Extra Tips for Windows 64 Bit Users
- Always check your system type: 64-bit or 32-bit.
- On windows 64 bit, install both DLL versions for full coverage.
- Don't mix up the folders. 64-bit DLLs go in System32. 32-bit DLLs go in SysWOW64.
- If you see a 0xc000007b error, you probably used the wrong DLL version. Swap it out.
How to Fix vcruntime140.dll Errors Fast
- Run Windows System File Checker (SFC): Open Command Prompt as admin. Type
sfc /scannow. Hit Enter. This fixes corrupted system files. - Update Windows: Sometimes, updates repair missing DLLs automatically.
- Repair Visual C++ Redistributable: If the installer offers Repair, use it. It's quick.
- Check for registry issues: Rare, but registry problems can block DLLs. Use trusted tools if you suspect this.
And if all else fails, try reinstalling the program that's giving you trouble.
Security and Best Practices
- Never download DLLs from random websites. Stick to Microsoft or well-known sources.
- Scan downloaded files for viruses before installing.
- Keep your system updated. Windows updates often include new DLL versions.
- Back up your important files before making changes.
And always check you're using the right version for your system. Mixing 32-bit and 64-bit files causes errors.
Summary of Key Points
- vcruntime140.dll is vital for running many Windows apps and games.
- Missing or corrupted DLLs trigger error messages and crashes.
- Best fix: Download and install the official Visual C++ Redistributable.
- Manual install: Place the right DLL in the correct folder (System32 or SysWOW64).
- On windows 64 bit, install both 32-bit and 64-bit versions.
- vcruntime140-1.dll errors use the same solution.