When you see an error like 'The program can't start because MSVCP140.dll is missing from your computer', the fix is almost always to install (or repair) the Microsoft Visual C++ Redistributable package — a free download from Microsoft.

Why does this happen?

Many programs are built using Microsoft's Visual C++ tools and rely on shared runtime files like MSVCP140.dll. If those runtime files are missing, corrupted, or the wrong version, the program cannot start. This is not a virus — it is a missing software component.

The fix: install the Visual C++ Redistributable

  1. Open your web browser and go to Microsoft's official download page. Search for 'Microsoft Visual C++ Redistributable latest supported downloads' on Microsoft's support site (support.microsoft.com).
  2. Download the version for your system. Most modern systems need the X64 version of the Visual C++ 2015-2022 Redistributable. If the program is 32-bit, also download the X86 version.
  3. Run the installer and follow the prompts. It takes under a minute.
  4. Restart your computer, then try opening the program again.

If the error persists

Sometimes an existing but corrupted installation is the culprit. Go to Settings, Apps, Installed apps and search for Microsoft Visual C++. You will likely see several versions listed. Click the three-dot menu next to the relevant version and choose 'Modify', then select 'Repair'.

Do not download DLL files from random websites

Sites that offer individual .dll files for download are risky — they sometimes bundle malware. The official Microsoft Redistributable is the correct and safe solution.

If you are not sure which version of the Redistributable to install, ask us and tell us the name of the program throwing the error.