Quick Summary
The error "MSVCP140.dll is missing" indicates that a program requires the Microsoft Visual C++ Redistributable Package, but it's either not installed or corrupted on your system. This package contains runtime components needed to run applications developed with Visual Studio.
Common Causes
- Missing Visual C++ Redistributable Package: The most common cause is that the required version of the Visual C++ Redistributable package is not installed on your computer.
- Corrupted Visual C++ Redistributable Package: The installed Visual C++ Redistributable package may be corrupted due to incomplete installation, file corruption, or conflicts with other software.
- Incorrect System Architecture: The program you are trying to run might be designed for a different system architecture (32-bit or 64-bit) than the installed Visual C++ Redistributable package or your operating system.
- DLL File Deleted or Moved: Rarely, the MSVCP140.dll file might have been accidentally deleted or moved from its original location.
Step-by-Step Fixes
Method 1: Install or Reinstall the Visual C++ Redistributable Package
Step 1: Determine the correct Visual C++ Redistributable version. Typically, this is the 2015-2019 (or later) version. Often, the specific application documentation will indicate which version is required.
Step 2: Visit the official Microsoft website to download the latest Visual C++ Redistributable package. Search for "Visual C++ Redistributable latest supported downloads".
Step 3: Download both the x86 (32-bit) and x64 (64-bit) versions, even if you have a 64-bit operating system, as some applications require the 32-bit version.
Step 4: Run the downloaded executable files. If the package is already installed, you'll be prompted to repair or uninstall. Choose to repair. If it's not installed, follow the on-screen instructions to install it.
Step 5: Restart your computer after the installation or repair is complete.
Method 2: Repair the Visual C++ Redistributable Installation
Step 1: Open the Control Panel. Navigate to Programs and Features (or Add or Remove Programs).
Step 2: Locate the Microsoft Visual C++ Redistributable packages in the list. Look for the version related to MSVCP140.dll (usually 2015-2019 or later).
Step 3: Right-click on each relevant entry and select "Change".
Step 4: In the installer window, select "Repair" and follow the on-screen instructions.
Step 5: Restart your computer after the repair is complete.
Method 3: Run System File Checker (SFC)
Step 1: Open Command Prompt as an administrator. Search for "cmd" in the Start menu, right-click, and select "Run as administrator".
Step 2: Type the command sfc /scannow and press Enter.
Step 3: Wait for the scan to complete. This process may take some time. SFC will attempt to repair any corrupted system files, including DLLs.
Step 4: Restart your computer after the scan is complete.
Method 4: Check Application Compatibility
Step 1: Right-click on the executable file of the program that is causing the error.
Step 2: Select "Properties".
Step 3: Go to the "Compatibility" tab.
Step 4: Try running the program in compatibility mode for an older version of Windows (e.g., Windows 7 or Windows 8). Check the box labeled 'Run this program in compatibility mode for:' and select an older version of Windows from the dropdown menu.
Step 5: Check the box 'Run this program as an administrator'.
Step 6: Click "Apply" and then "OK".
Step 7: Try running the program again.