You double-click your favorite app. You expect it to open. Instead, Windows throws a strange message at you: “MSVCP140.dll was not found.” Annoying, right? Don’t worry. This error looks scary, but it’s usually easy to fix. Let’s break it down step by step in plain English.
TLDR: The MSVCP140.dll error usually means you’re missing the Microsoft Visual C++ Redistributable files. The easiest fix is to download and reinstall the correct version from Microsoft’s official website. You can also repair corrupted system files using built-in Windows tools. Avoid downloading random DLL files from unknown websites.
First, What Is MSVCP140.dll?
Let’s keep it simple.
MSVCP140.dll is a file used by many programs and games. It’s part of something called the Microsoft Visual C++ Redistributable. That’s a fancy name for a bundle of files that help software run properly.
Think of it like this:
- Your app is a car.
- MSVCP140.dll is part of the engine.
- No engine part? The car won’t start.
When this file is missing or broken, Windows can’t launch certain apps. And you get that dreaded message.
Why Does This Error Happen?
Good question. Here are the most common causes:
- The Visual C++ package is not installed.
- The file was deleted by mistake.
- An app uninstall removed it.
- A Windows update went wrong.
- Malware damaged the file.
The good news? Most of these are easy to fix.
Important: Do NOT Download Random DLL Files
You might be tempted to Google the file name and download it from a random site.
Don’t.
Seriously. This is risky.
Many DLL download sites bundle malware inside those files. You could turn a small problem into a big one.
Always get system files from Microsoft’s official website.
Fix #1: Reinstall Microsoft Visual C++ (Best Solution)
This works in most cases. It’s quick. It’s safe. It’s simple.
Step 1: Download the Redistributable
- Go to the official Microsoft website.
- Search for “Visual C++ Redistributable latest version.”
- Download both the x64 and x86 versions.
Why both? Because some programs use 32-bit files and others use 64-bit. Installing both covers everything.
Step 2: Install the Files
- Run the downloaded installers.
- Click Install.
- Restart your computer.
That’s it.
Now try opening your app again.
In many cases, the error is gone.
Image not found in postmetaFix #2: Repair the Visual C++ Installation
If the package is already installed, it might be corrupted.
Good news. Windows lets you repair it.
Here’s How:
- Press Windows + R.
- Type appwiz.cpl.
- Press Enter.
This opens the Programs and Features window.
- Find Microsoft Visual C++ Redistributable in the list.
- Click it.
- Select Change.
- Click Repair.
Wait for the repair to finish. Restart your PC.
Test the app again.
Fix #3: Reinstall the Problem App
Sometimes the problem isn’t Windows. It’s the app itself.
The program may have installed incorrectly.
Try this:
- Uninstall the app.
- Restart your computer.
- Download the latest version from the official site.
- Install it again.
Simple. Effective.
Fix #4: Run System File Checker (SFC)
Windows has a built-in tool that scans and fixes damaged system files.
It’s called System File Checker.
How to Run It:
- Click the Start menu.
- Search for cmd.
- Right-click Command Prompt.
- Select Run as administrator.
Now type this command:
sfc /scannow
Press Enter.
Wait. This may take several minutes.
If Windows finds corrupted files, it will try to fix them automatically.
When it finishes, restart your computer.
Fix #5: Run DISM Tool (If SFC Didn’t Work)
If SFC doesn’t solve the problem, try DISM.
DISM stands for Deployment Image Servicing and Management.
Yes, the name is long. But the command is easy.
Open Command Prompt as administrator again.
Type this:
DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /RestoreHealth
Press Enter.
Let it run. It may take 10–20 minutes.
Restart your computer when done.
Fix #6: Check for Windows Updates
Sometimes your system is simply outdated.
Microsoft updates often include file repairs and improvements.
Here’s what to do:
- Open Settings.
- Go to Windows Update.
- Click Check for updates.
Install everything available. Then restart.
Fix #7: Scan for Malware
If the file disappeared for no reason, malware could be the cause.
Run a full system scan using:
- Windows Security (built-in antivirus)
- Or a trusted antivirus program
Remove anything suspicious.
After cleaning, reinstall the Visual C++ Redistributable again.
How to Prevent This Error in the Future
Once everything works, let’s keep it that way.
Here are some smart habits:
- Don’t delete system files.
- Avoid shady software downloads.
- Keep Windows updated.
- Install both x86 and x64 redistributables.
- Use antivirus protection.
Small steps. Big protection.
What If Nothing Works?
If you tried everything and still see the error, you have a few final options:
- Create a new Windows user account and test there.
- Use System Restore to go back to a working point.
- Reset Windows (keep your files option).
These are stronger solutions. Use them only if needed.
Quick Recap
Let’s summarize what we learned:
- MSVCP140.dll is part of Microsoft Visual C++.
- Most errors happen because the redistributable is missing or broken.
- Reinstalling it usually fixes the problem.
- Never download DLL files from random websites.
- Use system tools like SFC and DISM for deeper fixes.
See? Not so scary after all.
Final Thoughts
Tech errors can feel overwhelming. Especially when you see strange file names like MSVCP140.dll.
But now you know the secret.
It’s usually just a missing support file. Not a disaster. Not a virus apocalypse. Not the end of your computer.
Follow the steps above. Start with reinstalling Visual C++. That fixes the issue most of the time.
Stay calm. Stay patient. Click carefully.
Your apps should be up and running again in no time.
And the next time you see a weird DLL message?
You’ll know exactly what to do.