How to Fix VCRUNTIME140_1.dll Was Not Found Error: 8 Proven Solutions That Work on Windows 10 and 11
Few Windows errors are as frustrating as the sudden appearance of the “VCRUNTIME140_1.dll was not found” message when launching a favorite application or game. This issue typically surfaces after installing new software, updating Windows, or moving files between systems. Because the missing DLL file is part of Microsoft’s Visual C++ Redistributable package, the error prevents programs built with Visual Studio from starting properly. Fortunately, there are several reliable ways to resolve the problem on both Windows 10 and Windows 11.
TLDR: The “VCRUNTIME140_1.dll was not found” error is usually caused by missing or corrupted Microsoft Visual C++ Redistributable files. Reinstalling or repairing the Visual C++ package fixes the issue in most cases. Additional solutions include running system file scans, updating Windows, reinstalling the affected app, and scanning for malware. Following the proven steps below will resolve the issue for the majority of users.
What Is VCRUNTIME140_1.dll and Why Does the Error Appear?
The VCRUNTIME140_1.dll file is part of the Microsoft Visual C++ Redistributable for Visual Studio 2019 and newer versions. Many modern applications rely on these runtime libraries to function. If the file is missing, corrupted, or incompatible, Windows cannot load the program that depends on it, triggering the error.
Common causes include:
- Incomplete installation of Microsoft Visual C++ Redistributable
- Corrupted system files
- Accidental deletion of DLL files
- Malware infection
- Outdated Windows updates
8 Proven Solutions to Fix VCRUNTIME140_1.dll Was Not Found
1. Reinstall Microsoft Visual C++ Redistributable
This is the most effective solution in most cases. Since the DLL file belongs to the Visual C++ package, reinstalling it replaces any missing or corrupted files.
- Open Settings → Apps → Installed Apps.
- Locate Microsoft Visual C++ 2015-2022 Redistributable.
- Uninstall it.
- Download the latest version from Microsoft’s official website.
- Install both x86 and x64 versions.
- Restart the PC.
After restarting, try launching the affected application again.
2. Repair the Existing Visual C++ Installation
If reinstalling feels unnecessary, repairing the existing package may resolve the issue.
- Go to Control Panel → Programs and Features.
- Select the relevant Visual C++ Redistributable entry.
- Click Change → Repair.
- Restart the computer.
The repair function scans for missing or damaged files and restores them automatically.
3. Run System File Checker (SFC Scan)
Corrupted Windows system files can also cause DLL errors. The System File Checker tool can automatically detect and repair these files.
- Type cmd in the Start menu.
- Right-click Command Prompt and choose Run as administrator.
- Enter the command:
sfc /scannow
Press Enter and wait for the scan to complete. If any issues are found, Windows will attempt to fix them automatically.
Image not found in postmeta4. Use the DISM Tool
If the SFC scan does not fix the problem, the Deployment Image Servicing and Management (DISM) tool can repair deeper system image corruption.
Open Command Prompt as administrator and run:
DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /RestoreHealth
This process may take several minutes. Once completed, restart the system and check if the error persists.
5. Reinstall the Problematic Application
Sometimes the issue lies with the specific program rather than Windows itself. Incomplete installation or corrupted program files can trigger the missing DLL error.
- Uninstall the affected application.
- Restart the PC.
- Download a fresh copy from the official source.
- Reinstall it.
This ensures that all required dependencies are correctly installed.
6. Update Windows 10 or 11
Outdated Windows systems may lack critical updates that include runtime libraries.
- Go to Settings → Windows Update.
- Click Check for updates.
- Install any pending updates.
- Restart the device.
Windows updates frequently bundle improvements and file replacements needed for system stability.
Image not found in postmeta7. Scan for Malware
Malware infections can damage or hide DLL files, including VCRUNTIME140_1.dll.
Run a full system scan using:
- Windows Security (built-in antivirus)
- A reputable third-party antivirus program
After removing any detected threats, restart the computer and test the affected application again.
8. Avoid Downloading DLL Files from Unofficial Websites
Some users attempt to fix the issue by downloading the missing DLL file from third-party websites. While it may seem like a quick solution, this approach carries significant risks:
- Malware infection
- Incorrect DLL versions
- System instability
- Security vulnerabilities
The safest and most reliable method is always to reinstall the official Microsoft Visual C++ Redistributable package rather than downloading individual DLL files.
Additional Troubleshooting Tips
If none of the standard solutions resolve the issue, advanced users may consider:
- Performing a System Restore to a previous working state
- Creating a new Windows user account
- Running a clean boot to eliminate software conflicts
- Resetting Windows while keeping personal files
These methods are typically only necessary when system corruption is more widespread.
Preventing DLL Errors in the Future
To reduce the chances of encountering the same problem again, users should:
- Keep Windows updated
- Install software only from verified sources
- Use reliable antivirus protection
- Avoid registry cleaners that may remove needed files
- Create regular system restore points
Routine maintenance significantly lowers the risk of runtime-related errors.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. What is VCRUNTIME140_1.dll?
It is a Dynamic Link Library file that belongs to the Microsoft Visual C++ Redistributable package. Many applications rely on it to function properly.
2. Why did the VCRUNTIME140_1.dll error suddenly appear?
The error typically appears after a Windows update, software installation, system corruption, or accidental file deletion.
3. Is it safe to download VCRUNTIME140_1.dll from a DLL website?
No. Downloading DLL files from unofficial sites can expose the system to malware and compatibility issues. Reinstalling the official Microsoft package is safer.
4. Do both Windows 10 and Windows 11 experience this issue?
Yes. The error occurs on both operating systems because both rely on Visual C++ Redistributables for many applications.
5. Should both x86 and x64 versions of Visual C++ be installed?
Yes. Even on 64-bit systems, some applications require the 32-bit (x86) version.
6. Will reinstalling Windows fix the error?
Yes, but it is a last resort. Most cases are resolved by reinstalling or repairing the Visual C++ Redistributable package.
7. Can corrupted system files cause this error?
Yes. That is why running sfc /scannow and the DISM tool is recommended.
8. Is this error caused by hardware problems?
In rare cases, failing storage drives may corrupt system files. However, the issue is usually software-related.
By following these eight proven solutions, users can effectively resolve the “VCRUNTIME140_1.dll was not found” error and restore full application functionality on Windows 10 and Windows 11 systems. Most issues are resolved within minutes by reinstalling or repairing Microsoft Visual C++ Redistributables, making it the first and most important troubleshooting step.
