VCRUNTIME140_1.DLL: What It Is and How to Fix Errors

In the world of Windows operating systems, Dynamic Link Libraries (DLLs) play a crucial role in ensuring software functions smoothly. One of the most commonly encountered DLL files is VCRUNTIME140_1.DLL. Users may come across error messages related to this file, such as “VCRUNTIME140_1.DLL is missing” or “The program can’t start because VCRUNTIME140_1.DLL was not found.” These errors can prevent applications from launching or operating correctly, causing frustration and confusion. This article delves into the reasons these errors occur and provides a step-by-step guide to resolving them, helping you get your system and programs back on track.

Why Do VCRUNTIME140_1.DLL Errors Occur?

The VCRUNTIME140_1.DLL file is part of the Microsoft Visual C++ Redistributable package, specifically for Visual Studio 2015, 2017, 2019, and 2022. This file contains essential runtime components required by many modern applications developed using Microsoft’s C++ programming language. When the operating system or an application tries to access this DLL and cannot find it or finds it corrupted, an error is triggered.

There are several reasons why you might encounter a VCRUNTIME140_1.DLL error:

• Missing or Corrupted DLL File: The DLL may have been inadvertently deleted, become corrupted due to a system crash, or failed to be installed properly alongside a program. Malware and viruses can also target and damage critical DLL files.
• Incomplete or Damaged Visual C++ Redistributable Installation: If the necessary Visual C++ Redistributable package is not installed, out-of-date, or has become corrupted, the essential files, including VCRUNTIME140_1.DLL, won’t be available to programs that need them.
• Faulty Software Installation: Some software installers fail to properly bundle all needed DLL dependencies, or conflicts during the installation process may prevent files from being correctly copied to the system.
• System File Corruption: Windows system files can become corrupted due to hard drive errors, abrupt shutdowns, malware, or other issues, resulting in missing or inaccessible DLLs.
• Manual Deletion or Alteration: Sometimes, users may accidentally delete or move DLL files thinking they’re unnecessary or as part of manual cleanup processes.

For these reasons, errors related to VCRUNTIME140_1.DLL are not uncommon and can affect a wide range of applications, from web browsers to productivity suites and games.

How to Fix VCRUNTIME140_1.DLL Errors

Fixing VCRUNTIME140_1.DLL errors is usually straightforward, but it’s important to follow solutions in a logical order to avoid making issues worse.

1. Restart Your Computer
   Before making any changes, restart your computer. Temporary glitches or incomplete program closures can sometimes result in DLL errors.
2. Update Windows
   Ensuring your system is fully up-to-date can resolve many compatibility and dependency issues. Go to Settings > Update & Security > Windows Update and install all available updates.
3. Install or Repair the Visual C++ Redistributable
   The most common solution is to install or repair the Microsoft Visual C++ Redistributable.
   • Visit the official Microsoft Download Center.
   • Search for “Visual C++ Redistributable for Visual Studio 2015, 2017, 2019, and 2022.”
   • Download the vc_redist.x64.exe (for 64-bit systems) and/or vc_redist.x86.exe (for 32-bit systems).
   • Run the downloaded installer(s) and select “Repair” if prompted, or complete a new installation.
   • Restart your computer after installation.
4. Reinstall the Affected Application
   If the error appears only in one application, try uninstalling and then reinstalling that program.
   • Open Control Panel > Programs and Features.
   • Find the problematic application, select it, and click Uninstall.
   • Restart your computer.
   • Reinstall the latest version of the application from its official source.
5. Run System File Checker (SFC)
   Corrupt system files can cause DLL errors. Windows has a built-in tool called System File Checker.
   • Press Windows + S and type “cmd”.
   • Right-click “Command Prompt” and select “Run as administrator”.
   • Type sfc /scannow and press Enter.
   • Wait for the scan to complete. It will automatically repair damaged system files it detects.
   • Restart your system.
6. Perform a Virus and Malware Scan
   Malware can damage or disguise itself as DLL files. Run a full system scan using Windows Defender or a trusted third-party antivirus program to rule out infection.
7. Avoid Downloading Standalone DLLs
   While it might be tempting to download VCRUNTIME140_1.DLL from random websites, this approach is unsafe and could further compromise your system. Always obtain DLLs through official Microsoft packages or application installers.
8. Restore or Copy the DLL (Advanced)
   If you know a trusted computer has the correct version of VCRUNTIME140_1.DLL (with the same system architecture and Windows version), you can copy it to the C:\Windows\System32 (for 64-bit) or C:\Windows\SysWOW64 (for 32-bit) directory. Register the DLL with the command:
   • regsvr32 VCRUNTIME140_1.DLL
   • This approach is only recommended for advanced users and as a last resort.

Conclusion

Errors involving VCRUNTIME140_1.DLL can be both annoying and disruptive, but understanding their root causes makes resolving them much less daunting. Most commonly, these errors arise from missing or corrupted Visual C++ Redistributable components, failed application installations, or issues stemming from malware or system corruption.

By methodically working through solutions—beginning with restarts, moving on to updates and redistributable repairs, running system checks, and reinstalling affected programs—you can almost always resolve these problems without resorting to unsafe downloads. Keeping your system updated and running regular security scans will help prevent future DLL errors from surfacing.

If after following all these steps the issue persists, consider reaching out to the software vendor’s support or consulting a trusted IT professional. With patience and a systematic approach, VCRUNTIME140_1.DLL errors can be effectively addressed, ensuring your Windows software continues to run as flawlessly as intended.