The MSVCR100.dll file is a vital system file that many applications and games rely on to function correctly. It is part of the Microsoft Visual C++ 2010 Redistributable package and contains essential components for running C++ programs. If MSVCR100.dll is missing or corrupted, you may encounter errors such as: "MSVCR100.dll is missing", "The program can't start because MSVCR100.dll is missing", or "Error loading MSVCR100.dll". These errors can prevent programs from launching or cause them to crash. Fortunately, this issue is often fixable with a few straightforward solutions. In this article, we'll walk you through how to resolve the problem.
Reinstall Microsoft Visual C++ 2010 Redistributable
Since MSVCR100.dll is part of the Microsoft Visual C++ 2010 Redistributable Package, reinstalling or repairing the package can fix missing or corrupted DLL files.
Download the Microsoft Visual C++ 2010 Redistributable Package from the official Microsoft website
Run the installer and follow the on-screen instructions
Restart your computer after the installation is complete
This will reinstall all the necessary files, including MSVCR100.dll, and should resolve the error.
Use an Automated DLL Repair Tool
Download and install PcGoGo DLL Fixer
Run a full system scan to check for missing DLLs, including MSVCR100.dll
Click Repair to fix the errors automatically
Restart your computer to apply the changes
This method is especially helpful for beginners and reduces the risk of manual errors.
Use System File Checker (SFC) to Repair System Files
The System File Checker (SFC) tool scans your system for corrupted files and attempts to repair them, including missing or corrupted DLL files like MSVCR100.dll.
Press Windows + S and type "cmd"
Right-click Command Prompt and select "Run as administrator"
In the command window, type the following command:
sfc /scannow
Wait for the scan to complete (this can take some time).
Restart your computer
If the MSVCR100.dll file was corrupted, the SFC tool may repair or replace it automatically.
Use DISM (Deployment Imaging Service and Management) Tool
If SFC doesn't fix the issue, you can use the DISM tool to repair deeper system corruption.
Open Command Prompt as Administrator again
Type the following commands one by one:
DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /CheckHealth
DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /ScanHealth
DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /RestoreHealth
Wait for the process to complete and then restart your computer
DISM is particularly useful for fixing issues related to the Windows system image, which could be the underlying cause of the MSVCR100.dll error
Additional Troubleshooting Steps
Check for Windows Updates: Sometimes, a Windows update may automatically restore the missing DLL file
Perform a System Restore: If the error started recently after a system change, restoring your computer to a previous state might fix the issue
Scan for Malware: Run a full system scan using Windows Defender or a trusted antivirus to ensure that the DLL file wasn't removed or corrupted by a virus
Preventing MSVCR100.dll Missing Errors in the Future
To prevent future errors related to MSVCR100.dll, follow these best practices:
Keep your system and software up to date: Regularly check for Windows updates and software patches
Reinstall Visual C++ Redistributable packages: Ensure that your Visual C++ packages are always up to date
Use reliable antivirus software: Protect your system from malware that might affect DLL files
Avoid downloading DLLs from untrusted sources: Stick to official sources for downloading DLL files to minimize security risks
Conclusion
The MSVCR100.dll missing error is common but can be easily resolved with the right approach. Whether you choose to reinstall the necessary software, use built-in Windows tools like SFC and DISM, or use an automated repair tool, there are several solutions to fix the problem. By following the steps outlined above, you can restore the missing DLL and get your applications running smoothly again.
