Many PC users encounter this error when trying to launch games or applications. It appears because the software requires certain Microsoft Visual C++ Redistributables to function correctly, and either they are missing, outdated, or corrupted on your system.
Don’t worry — this guide will walk you through easy solutions to restore your runtime libraries and get your program working.
⚙️ Common Causes
- Missing Microsoft Visual C++ Redistributables
- Corrupted Visual C++ installation
- Outdated or incompatible versions (x86 vs x64)
- Conflicts with previously installed versions
- Windows updates not applied
🛠️ Fix 1: Install the Required Visual C++ Redistributables
Most programs specify the version they need. The safest way is to install the latest supported versions.
Steps:
- Go to the official Microsoft website: Visual C++ Redistributable Downloads
- Download both x86 and x64 versions (even if your system is 64-bit).
- Run the installers and follow on-screen instructions.
- Restart your PC and try running the program again.
✅ Result: Installs missing runtime components and fixes the error.
🛠️ Fix 2: Repair Existing Visual C++ Redistributables
Sometimes the installed redistributables are corrupted.
Steps:
- Press Windows + R → appwiz.cpl → Enter.
- Locate all Microsoft Visual C++ Redistributables in the list.
- Select each → Click Change → Repair.
- Once done, restart your computer.
✅ Result: Repairs corrupted runtime files without reinstallation.
🛠️ Fix 3: Update Windows
Outdated system files can prevent proper runtime execution.
Steps:
- Press Windows + I → Settings → Windows Update
- Click Check for updates
- Install all pending updates, including optional updates.
- Restart your PC.
✅ Result: Ensures your system has all necessary libraries and dependencies.
🛠️ Fix 4: Install Redistributables Manually from the Program Folder
Some programs include a vcredist_x86.exe or vcredist_x64.exe inside their installation directory.
Steps:
- Open the program’s installation folder.
- Look for vcredist_x86.exe and vcredist_x64.exe.
- Run both installers and follow the instructions.
- Restart and launch your program.
✅ Result: Provides the exact redistributable required by the software.
🛠️ Fix 5: Uninstall and Reinstall Visual C++ Redistributables
If repairing doesn’t work:
Steps:
- Press Windows + R → appwiz.cpl → Enter.
- Uninstall all Microsoft Visual C++ Redistributables.
- Reboot your PC.
- Download and reinstall the latest versions from Microsoft (both x86 and x64).
✅ Result: Completely refreshes the runtime environment.
🛠️ Fix 6: Run Program as Administrator
Sometimes permission issues block the program from accessing runtime files.
Steps:
- Right-click the program shortcut or .exe.
- Select Run as administrator.
✅ Result: Grants the program full access to required runtime libraries.
💡 Additional Tips
- Always install both x86 and x64 versions, even on 64-bit Windows.
- Avoid downloading Visual C++ files from unofficial sources.
- Restart Windows after installing or repairing redistributables.
- If the program still fails, try compatibility mode (right-click → Properties → Compatibility → Run in compatibility mode).
❓ FAQs
Q1: Why does this error appear only on my PC?
A: The program needs specific runtime libraries that are missing or corrupted on your system.
Q2: Do I need every version of Visual C++?
A: Not necessarily, but some programs require older versions (2005, 2008, 2010, 2012, 2013, 2015–2022). Installing the latest x86/x64 versions usually covers most needs.
Q3: Can antivirus block runtime installation?
A: Yes. Temporarily disable antivirus while installing Visual C++ Redistributables.
Q4: Will reinstalling Windows fix it?
A: Only as a last resort. Installing the required redistributables is usually enough.
🎯 Conclusion
The “Microsoft Visual C++ Runtime missing” error is caused by missing, outdated, or corrupted runtime libraries.
By following these steps — installing or repairing Visual C++ Redistributables, updating Windows, and running the program as admin — you can fix the error and launch your program successfully.
