The VCRUNTIME140.dll file is a crucial part of the Microsoft Visual C++ Redistributable package. Many Windows programs rely on it to run properly. If this file is missing or corrupted, you might see error messages like:"VCRUNTIME140.dll is missing", "The program can't start because VCRUNTIME140.dll is missing from your computer." This error prevents programs from launching, so it's important to fix it promptly.
Reinstall Microsoft Visual C++ Redistributable
Go to Microsoft Visual C++ Redistributable
Download the version that matches your system (x64 or x86)
Run the downloaded installer
Accept the license and click Install
Restart your computer if prompted
Press Windows + R, type appwiz.cpl, press Enter
Ensure the new Redistributable appears in the list
Test the program that had the VCRUNTIME140.dll error
Repair the VCRUNTIME140.dll File Automatically
If the VCRUNTIME140.dll error persists even after reinstalling the Microsoft Visual C++ Redistributable, your system may have corrupted DLL entries or damaged registry settings. A dedicated repair tool like PcGoGo DLL Fixer can automatically detect and restore missing or broken DLL files—including VCRUNTIME140.dll—and fix related system issues.
Download and Install PcGoGo DLL Fixer
Click the Download button to get the installer
Run the setup file and follow the on-screen instructions to complete installation
Run a Full System Scan
Open PcGoGo DLL Fixer and click Scan
The tool will check for missing, corrupted, or incorrectly registered DLL files
Repair
After the scan, locate VCRUNTIME140.dll in the results
Click Repair Now
The tool will automatically download the correct version and place it in the proper system directory
Restart Your PC
Reboot your computer to apply the repairs
This method is useful when reinstalling the Visual C++ Redistributable alone isn't enough due to deeper system corruption or unstable DLL registrations
Repair System Files
If VCRUNTIME140.dll is missing or corrupted, you can fix it using Windows built-in tools.
Press Windows + S, type cmd, right-click Command Prompt, and select Run as administrator
Run System File Checker (SFC)
Type sfc /scannow and press Enter
Wait for the scan to complete; it will automatically repair missing or corrupted system files
Run DISM (Optional)
Type the following commands one by one, pressing Enter after each:
DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /RestoreHealth
This fixes deeper system corruption that SFC may not repair
Reboot your PC and test the program that showed the VCRUNTIME140.dll error
Preventive Tips
To reduce the risk of VCRUNTIME140.dll errors in the future, follow these simple tips:
Keep Windows Updated: Regularly install Windows updates to ensure system files and libraries are current
Update Software and Drivers: Keep programs and device drivers up to date to avoid compatibility issues
Avoid Untrusted DLL Downloads: Only download DLLs or system files from official sources, such as Microsoft
Run Regular Malware Scans: Use Windows Security or trusted antivirus software to prevent malware from corrupting system files
Backup Important Data: Regular backups can protect your files in case of system errors or corruption
Conclusion
VCRUNTIME140.dll errors are common but usually easy to fix with the right steps. Reinstalling the Microsoft Visual C++ Redistributable, repairing system files with SFC and DISM, or using a dedicated DLL repair tool like PcGoGo DLL Fixer can quickly restore the missing or corrupted file. Following preventive measures—such as keeping Windows and drivers updated, avoiding untrusted DLL downloads, running regular malware scans, and backing up important data—can help prevent this issue from recurring. By following these solutions, you can ensure your programs run smoothly without interruptions.
