Have you encountered the frustrating “vcruntime140_1.dll was not found” error message while trying to launch a program on your Windows PC? Don’t worry, you’re not alone. This error plagues users attempting to run various applications, from games and design software to everyday productivity tools. But fear not, for this in-depth guide equips you with the knowledge and steps to vanquish this error and get your programs running smoothly once more.
Understanding the vcruntime140_1.dll File
The culprit behind this error message is a file named vcruntime140_1.dll. This file is a vital component of the Microsoft Visual C++ 2015 Redistributable Packages. These packages provide essential libraries that many applications rely on to function correctly. In essence, vcruntime140_1.dll acts as a set of tools that programs use to perform specific tasks.
The error message indicates that the program you’re trying to run cannot locate this crucial file, hindering its ability to execute properly. This can occur for several reasons:
- Missing Installation: The Microsoft Visual C++ 2015 Redistributable Packages might not be installed on your system at all.
- Incorrect Version: The program you’re running might require a specific version of the Visual C++ Redistributable Packages that isn’t present on your PC.
- Corrupted File: Even if the packages are installed, the vcruntime140_1.dll file itself could be damaged or corrupted.
Eradicating the “vcruntime140_1.dll was not found” Error: A Step-by-Step Guide
Now that we understand the root cause of the error, let’s delve into the solutions. We’ll explore different methods to ensure your system has the necessary components to run your programs flawlessly.
1: Installing the Microsoft Visual C++ 2015 Redistributable Packages
-
Download the Packages: Head over to the official Microsoft website to download the redistributable packages. You’ll find both x64 (for 64-bit systems) and x86 (for 32-bit systems) versions available. Download the version that corresponds to your Windows system architecture. You can usually determine this by going to Control Panel > System and Security > System. Look for the line mentioning “System type” to identify your system architecture.
-
Run the Installer: Once downloaded, double-click the installer file to initiate the installation process.
-
Follow the Prompts: The installation wizard will guide you through the setup. Ensure you select all the options to install both the VC++ Libraries and the Windows SDK Runtime components. Click Next and follow the on-screen instructions to complete the installation.
-
Restart Your PC: After the installation is complete, it’s crucial to restart your computer. This allows the system to register the newly installed components and ensures they are accessible to your programs.
2: Repairing Existing Visual C++ Redistributable Packages
If you already have the Microsoft Visual C++ Redistributable Packages installed on your system, you can attempt to repair them. This process can resolve any potential issues within the existing installation.
-
Open Control Panel: Access the Control Panel through the Windows Start menu search bar.
-
Navigate to Programs and Features: Locate the Programs and Features section within the Control Panel. You might also find it under Programs or Uninstall a program.
-
Find the Visual C++ Redistributable Packages: Look for entries related to Microsoft Visual C++ 2015 Redistributable. There might be multiple entries depending on your system configuration.
-
Select and Repair: Right-click on each entry and select Change. In the subsequent window, choose the Repair option and follow the on-screen instructions to complete the repair process. Repeat this step for all relevant Visual C++ 2015 Redistributable entries.
-
Restart Your PC: Once the repairs are finished, restart your computer to ensure the changes take effect.
3: Manually Placing the vcruntime140_1.dll File (Not Recommended)
While this method might be suggested on some websites, we strongly advise against it. Downloading DLL files from untrusted sources poses security risks. These files could be corrupted or contain malware that can harm your system. Additionally, simply placing the file in your system directory might not resolve the issue as programs often rely on specific registry entries associated with the official installation of the Visual C++ Redistributable Packages.
Seeking Help from the Program Developer
If you’ve exhausted all the troubleshooting steps and the error persists, it’s recommended to reach out to the program developer’s support channels. They might have specific solutions or workarounds tailored to their program’s interaction with the Visual C++ Redistributable Packages. Additionally, check the developer’s website for any patches or updates that might address the issue, or browse user forums for similar problems and solutions. This extra research can often uncover fixes that haven’t been officially documented yet.
Conclusion
By following the methods outlined in this comprehensive guide, you should be well-equipped to tackle the “vcruntime140_1.dll was not found” error and get your programs running smoothly once again. Remember, a systematic approach, starting with installing or repairing the Visual C++ Redistributable Packages, is generally the most effective course of action. If you encounter further complications, don’t hesitate to seek assistance from the program developer’s support team.
