Are you tired of encountering the frustrating error message “The program can’t start because msvcp140.dll is missing from your computer” every time you try to launch an application or game on your Windows 7 system? You’re not alone! The msvcp140 DLL issue is a common problem that can occur due to various reasons, including corrupted system files, missing updates, or conflicts with other software. In this article, we’ll delve into the possible causes of this error and provide you with a step-by-step guide on how to fix the msvcp140 DLL issue in Windows 7.
What is msvcp140 DLL and Why is it Important?
Before we dive into the troubleshooting process, it’s essential to understand what msvcp140 DLL is and its significance in the Windows operating system. msvcp140 DLL is a dynamic link library (DLL) file that belongs to the Microsoft Visual C++ Redistributable package. This package is a collection of runtime libraries that provide essential functions for running C++ applications on Windows.
MSVCP140 DLL is specifically responsible for providing the necessary functions for programs that use the C++ programming language. It’s a critical component that allows these programs to run smoothly and efficiently. Without this DLL file, applications that rely on it will fail to launch, resulting in the error message we mentioned earlier.
Causes of the msvcp140 DLL Error in Windows 7
Now that we know what msvcp140 DLL is, let’s explore the possible reasons why it might be missing or corrupted:
Corrupted System Files
One of the primary causes of the msvcp140 DLL error is corrupted system files. This can occur due to various reasons, such as:
- Viral infections or malware attacks
- Power outages or sudden system shutdowns
- Faulty software installations or updates
- Disk errors or bad sectors
When system files are corrupted, the msvcp140 DLL file may become damaged or missing, leading to the error message.
Missing Updates
Failing to install the latest Windows updates can also cause the msvcp140 DLL error. Microsoft regularly releases updates that include vital security patches and bug fixes, including those related to the Visual C++ Redistributable package. If you haven’t installed the latest updates, you might be missing critical components, including the msvcp140 DLL file.
Conflicts with Other Software
In some cases, the msvcp140 DLL error can occur due to conflicts with other software installed on your system. This can happen when two or more programs compete for the same system resources, causing the DLL file to become corrupted or missing.
64-Bit vs. 32-Bit Architecture
Another possible cause of the msvcp140 DLL error is the mismatch between the system architecture and the application’s architecture. If you’re running a 64-bit system, but the application is designed for 32-bit architecture, it may not be able to find the correct version of the msvcp140 DLL file, resulting in the error.
Fixing the msvcp140 DLL Error in Windows 7
Now that we’ve covered the possible causes of the msvcp140 DLL error, let’s move on to the troubleshooting process. Here are the steps to fix the msvcp140 DLL error in Windows 7:
Method 1: Download and Install the Microsoft Visual C++ Redistributable Package
One of the simplest ways to fix the msvcp140 DLL error is to download and install the Microsoft Visual C++ Redistributable package. This package includes the msvcp140 DLL file, along with other essential runtime libraries.
To download the package, follow these steps:
- Visit the official Microsoft website and search for “Microsoft Visual C++ Redistributable Package”
- Select the correct version (x86 or x64) that matches your system architecture
- Download the package and run the installer
- Follow the on-screen instructions to complete the installation
Once you’ve installed the package, restart your system and try launching the application that was previously causing the error.
Method 2: Register the msvcp140 DLL File
If downloading and installing the Visual C++ Redistributable package doesn’t work, you can try registering the msvcp140 DLL file manually. This method requires you to use the Command Prompt with administrator privileges.
To register the msvcp140 DLL file, follow these steps:
- Press the Windows key + R to open the Run dialog box
- Type “cmd” and press Enter to open the Command Prompt
- Right-click on the Command Prompt icon and select “Run as administrator”
- Type the following command and press Enter:
regsvr32 msvcp140.dll
This command will register the msvcp140 DLL file in the Windows registry. If you encounter any errors during the registration process, you can try using the sfc /scannow command to scan and repair corrupted system files.
Method 3: Perform a System File Checker (SFC) Scan
Corrupted system files can cause the msvcp140 DLL error, so performing an SFC scan can help repair or replace damaged files.
To perform an SFC scan, follow these steps:
- Press the Windows key + R to open the Run dialog box
- Type “cmd” and press Enter to open the Command Prompt
- Right-click on the Command Prompt icon and select “Run as administrator”
- Type the following command and press Enter:
sfc /scannow
The SFC scan will take some time to complete, depending on the size of your system files. Once the scan is finished, restart your system and try launching the application that was previously causing the error.
Method 4: Use the DISM Tool to Repair Corrupted System Files
The Deployment Image Servicing and Management (DISM) tool is a powerful utility that can help repair corrupted system files, including the msvcp140 DLL file.
To use the DISM tool, follow these steps:
- Press the Windows key + R to open the Run dialog box
- Type “cmd” and press Enter to open the Command Prompt
- Right-click on the Command Prompt icon and select “Run as administrator”
- Type the following command and press Enter:
dism /online /cleanup-image /restorehealth
The DISM tool will take some time to complete the repair process. Once it’s finished, restart your system and try launching the application that was previously causing the error.
Method 5: Reinstall the Application
If none of the above methods work, you can try reinstalling the application that’s causing the msvcp140 DLL error. This will remove any corrupted files and registry entries associated with the application.
To reinstall the application, follow these steps:
- Uninstall the application using the Control Panel or the application’s built-in uninstaller
- Remove any remaining files and folders associated with the application
- Download the application’s installer from the official website or a trusted source
- Run the installer and follow the on-screen instructions to complete the installation
Once you’ve reinstalled the application, try launching it to see if the msvcp140 DLL error has been resolved.
Conclusion
Fixing the msvcp140 DLL error in Windows 7 requires patience and persistence. By following the methods outlined in this article, you should be able to resolve the issue and get your applications running smoothly again. Remember to always keep your system updated with the latest Windows updates and security patches to prevent such errors from occurring in the future.
If you’re still encountering issues after trying the above methods, it may be worth considering seeking professional help from a Windows expert or the application’s support team. They can provide you with more personalized solutions and troubleshooting steps to resolve the issue.
In the meantime, we hope this comprehensive guide has helped you fix the msvcp140 DLL error and enjoy a smoother computing experience.
What is the msvcp140 DLL file and what does it do?
The msvcp140 DLL file is a part of the Microsoft Visual C++ Redistributable package, which is a set of libraries and runtime components required by many applications to function properly. The DLL file contains code and data that provides functionality for applications that use the C++ programming language. Specifically, msvcp140 is responsible for providing support for the C++ standard library, which includes functions for tasks such as input/output operations, string manipulation, and memory management.
In other words, the msvcp140 DLL file is a crucial component that enables many applications to run smoothly and efficiently. Without it, applications that rely on the C++ standard library may fail to launch or encounter errors during execution. The good news is that fixing the missing msvcp140 DLL error is relatively straightforward, and this guide will walk you through the steps to resolve the issue.
What causes the msvcp140 DLL file to go missing?
There are several reasons why the msvcp140 DLL file might go missing or become corrupted. One common cause is the accidental deletion of the file or its associated registry entries. This can happen when users uninstall applications or software that rely on the DLL file, or when they manually delete system files without realizing the consequences. Another reason is malware infections, which can corrupt or delete system files, including the msvcp140 DLL.
Other possible causes include software conflicts, system updates, or hardware failures. In some cases, a faulty installation of the Microsoft Visual C++ Redistributable package or a corrupted download can also lead to the missing DLL file. Whatever the reason, the good news is that there are ways to fix the issue and restore the DLL file to its rightful place.
What are the symptoms of a missing msvcp140 DLL file?
The symptoms of a missing msvcp140 DLL file can vary depending on the applications affected and the extent of the damage. Common symptoms include error messages or prompts indicating that the DLL file is missing or corrupted. You may see error messages such as “The program can’t start because msvcp140.dll is missing from your computer” or “msvcp140.dll not found.” In some cases, applications may fail to launch or crash unexpectedly, often with no error messages at all.
Other symptoms include slow system performance, freezing, or crashes, especially when running applications that rely on the C++ standard library. In extreme cases, a missing msvcp140 DLL file can even prevent the operating system from booting up properly. If you’re experiencing any of these symptoms, it’s essential to address the issue promptly to prevent further system instability.
Can I fix the missing msvcp140 DLL file by simply reinstalling the application?
Reinstalling the application that’s reporting the missing msvcp140 DLL file may not be enough to fix the issue. The reason is that the DLL file is a system component that’s shared by multiple applications. Reinstalling the application may reinstall its own dependencies, but it won’t necessarily restore the missing DLL file. In fact, reinstalling the application may even overwrite any existing system files, making the problem worse.
To fix the issue, you’ll need to address the root cause, which is the missing or corrupted DLL file. This may involve reinstalling the Microsoft Visual C++ Redistributable package, registering the DLL file, or replacing it with a functional copy. We’ll cover these steps in detail later in this guide.
Is it safe to download the msvcp140 DLL file from the internet?
While it may be tempting to download the msvcp140 DLL file from the internet, it’s generally not recommended. The reason is that downloading DLL files from unknown sources can be risky, as they may be infected with malware or viruses. Additionally, downloaded DLL files may not be compatible with your system architecture or the specific version of Windows you’re running.
Instead, it’s safer to obtain the DLL file from a trusted source, such as the official Microsoft website or a reputable DLL repository. We’ll show you how to download the correct version of the DLL file and install it safely in the following sections.
Will fixing the missing msvcp140 DLL file affect my system’s performance?
Fixing the missing msvcp140 DLL file should not negatively impact your system’s performance. In fact, resolving the issue should improve system stability and performance, especially if you’re experiencing errors or crashes due to the missing DLL file. By restoring the DLL file, you’ll be enabling applications that rely on it to function correctly, which should lead to smoother system operation.
That being said, if you’re using an older system or one with limited resources, the process of fixing the issue may temporarily consume system resources, such as CPU cycles and memory. However, this should be a one-time process, and once the issue is resolved, your system should return to its normal state.
Can I prevent the msvcp140 DLL file from going missing in the future?
Yes, there are steps you can take to prevent the msvcp140 DLL file from going missing in the future. One of the most effective ways is to regularly back up your system files and registry entries. This will ensure that you have a safe copy of the DLL file and associated registry entries in case they’re accidentally deleted or corrupted.
Additionally, be cautious when uninstalling applications or software, and avoid deleting system files or registry entries without understanding the consequences. Keeping your system and antivirus software up to date can also help prevent malware infections that may target system files like the msvcp140 DLL. By taking these precautions, you can minimize the risk of the DLL file going missing again in the future.