How to Fix Msvcp140.dll is Missing

If you’ve encountered the error message indicating that msvcp140.dll is missing on your Windows computer, you're not alone. This issue typically occurs when the Microsoft Visual C++ Redistributable package, which includes the msvcp140.dll file, is either missing, corrupted, or not properly installed. Fortunately, resolving this problem is straightforward and can be achieved through several methods. In this guide, we'll walk you through the most effective solutions to fix the "msvcp140.dll is missing" error and get your applications running smoothly again.

How to Fix Msvcp140.dll is Missing

Understanding the Msvcp140.dll File and Its Role

The msvcp140.dll file is a part of the Microsoft Visual C++ Redistributable for Visual Studio 2015, 2017, and 2019. It provides essential functions and libraries needed by many applications built with Visual C++. If this DLL file is absent or corrupted, programs that depend on it will fail to launch, resulting in error messages such as "The code execution cannot proceed because msvcp140.dll was not found."

Common causes of this error include:

• Corrupted or missing DLL files due to improper uninstallations or malware infections
• Outdated or incompatible Visual C++ Redistributable packages
• Problems with Windows system files
• Incomplete software installations or updates

Method 1: Reinstall the Microsoft Visual C++ Redistributable

The most common fix for the msvcp140.dll missing error is to reinstall the Microsoft Visual C++ Redistributable package that contains this DLL file. Follow these steps:

1. Visit the official Microsoft Download Center at Microsoft Visual C++ Redistributable downloads.
2. Download the latest supported versions of the Visual C++ Redistributable packages, such as Visual C++ 2015, 2017, and 2019. Make sure to select the correct version for your system architecture—x86 (32-bit) or x64 (64-bit).
3. Close all open applications.
4. Run the downloaded installer files and follow the on-screen instructions to install or repair the packages.
5. Restart your computer and check if the error persists.

Note: If you already have these packages installed, choosing the "Repair" option during installation can fix corrupted files.

Method 2: Manually Download and Replace the DLL File

If reinstalling the Visual C++ Redistributable doesn't work, you can manually replace the missing DLL file. Here's how:

1. Visit a reputable DLL download website, such as DLL-files.com.
2. Search for "msvcp140.dll" and ensure you select the correct version compatible with your system.
3. Download the DLL file and save it to a known location on your PC.
4. Copy the DLL file.
5. Navigate to the folder where the application is installed, typically in C:\Program Files or C:\Program Files (x86).
6. Paste the DLL file into this folder. If prompted, choose to overwrite existing files.
7. Alternatively, copy the DLL to the Windows system folder: C:\Windows\System32 (for 64-bit systems) or C:\Windows\SysWOW64 (for 32-bit systems).
8. Restart your computer and verify if the error is resolved.

Warning: Always download DLL files from trusted sources to avoid security risks. Be cautious with manual replacements, as incorrect or incompatible DLLs can cause further issues.

Method 3: Run System File Checker (SFC) and DISM Scan

Corrupted system files can also cause DLL errors. Running the built-in Windows tools can repair damaged system files that may be causing the msvcp140.dll missing error.

1. Open Command Prompt as an administrator. To do this, type "cmd" in the Start menu, right-click on "Command Prompt," and select "Run as administrator."
2. Type the following command and press Enter:

sfc /scannow

4. Wait for the System File Checker to scan and repair any corrupted files. This process may take some time.
5. Once completed, restart your computer.
6. To ensure system health, run the Deployment Image Servicing and Management (DISM) tool:

Dism /Online /Cleanup-Image /RestoreHealth

After DISM completes, restart your PC and check if the error persists.

Method 4: Update Windows to the Latest Version

Keeping your Windows OS up to date ensures you have the latest fixes and patches that can resolve DLL issues automatically. To update Windows:

1. Open Settings by pressing Windows + I.
2. Navigate to Update & Security.
3. Click on Check for updates.
4. If updates are available, download and install them.
5. Restart your computer after updates are installed.

This process can resolve underlying system issues contributing to DLL errors.

Method 5: Perform a Clean Boot to Identify Software Conflicts

Sometimes, third-party applications or background services interfere with system files, causing DLL errors. Performing a clean boot can help identify the culprit:

1. Press Windows + R, type msconfig, and press Enter.
2. Go to the Services tab, check Hide all Microsoft services, then click Disable all.
3. Navigate to the Startup tab and click Open Task Manager.
4. Disable all startup items.
5. Close Task Manager and click OK in System Configuration.
6. Restart your computer.
7. Check if the error persists. If not, enable services and startup items gradually to identify the conflicting software.

Summary: Key Points to Fix the Msvcp140.dll Missing Error

In summary, encountering the "msvcp140.dll is missing" error can be frustrating, but it is fixable through several reliable methods:

• Reinstall or repair the Microsoft Visual C++ Redistributable package to restore the missing DLL.
• Manually download and replace the msvcp140.dll file from trusted sources, ensuring compatibility.
• Use Windows built-in tools like System File Checker (SFC) and DISM to repair corrupted system files.
• Keep Windows updated to benefit from the latest stability patches and fixes.
• Perform a clean boot to identify and eliminate software conflicts that may cause DLL errors.

By following these steps, you can resolve the msvcp140.dll missing error effectively and restore proper functionality to your applications. If problems persist after trying these solutions, consider seeking professional technical support to diagnose deeper system issues.