Troubleshooting Guide: What to Do When “vcruntime140_1.dll was not found” Haunts Your PC

Imagine this: you’re settling in to work on your computer, ready to dive into your tasks or perhaps unwind with some gaming, when suddenly, an ominous pop-up disrupts your plans. It declares in stark terms: “vcruntime140_1.dll was not found.” Panic might set in. Is your computer crashing? Is it infected with a virus? Fear not, for this article is your beacon of hope in the stormy seas of computer errors.

What is “vcruntime140_1.dll”?

Before diving into solutions, let’s demystify what this enigmatic file even is. “vcruntime140_1.dll” is a crucial component of Microsoft’s Visual C++ Redistributable Packages. This file, along with its predecessors like vcruntime140.dll, is responsible for ensuring that software programs built with Visual C++ function correctly on your Windows operating system.

Understanding the Error: “vcruntime140_1.dll was not found”

So, you’ve encountered the error message that says “vcruntime140_1.dll was not found.” What does this mean exactly? Essentially, Windows or a specific program is unable to locate or access the vcruntime140_1.dll file it needs to run. This can happen for a variety of reasons, ranging from accidental deletion of the file, software updates gone awry, to malware interference.

Now, let’s embark on a journey to troubleshoot and fix this pesky issue so you can get back to using your computer without interruptions.

Common Causes of “vcruntime140_1.dll was not found”

Understanding the root causes of the problem is half the battle won. Here are some common reasons why you might encounter this error:

• Corrupted or Deleted File: The vcruntime140_1.dll file may have been accidentally deleted or corrupted by a program or during a system update.
• Incomplete Installation: If the Visual C++ Redistributable Packages were not installed correctly or were interrupted, it could lead to missing DLL files.
• Malware or Virus: Sometimes, malicious software can target DLL files, including vcruntime140_1.dll, causing them to disappear or become corrupted.
• Outdated Software: Using outdated versions of software that rely on vcruntime140_1.dll can trigger errors, especially if newer versions of the DLL are required.
• System Issues: Problems within the Windows registry or other system files can also contribute to DLL errors.

How to Fix “vcruntime140_1.dll was not found”

Method 1: Reinstall Visual C++ Redistributable Packages

1. Identify Your System Type:
   • Determine if your Windows is 32-bit or 64-bit. This is crucial for downloading the correct version of Visual C++ Redistributable.
2. Download the Packages:
   • Visit the official Microsoft website or trusted software repositories to download the latest Visual C++ Redistributable Packages that correspond to your system type.
3. Install the Packages:
   • Run the downloaded executable files and follow the installation wizard instructions. Ensure that the installation completes without any interruptions.
4. Restart Your Computer:
   • After installation, restart your computer to allow the changes to take effect. This step is essential for the newly installed DLL files to be recognized by your system.

Method 2: Restore from Recycle Bin (If Applicable)

If you suspect that vcruntime140_1.dll was accidentally deleted:

• Check your Recycle Bin:
  • Open the Recycle Bin on your desktop.
  • Search for “vcruntime140_1.dll.”
  • If found, right-click on the file and choose “Restore.”

Method 3: Run System File Checker (SFC)

1. Open Command Prompt as Administrator:
   • Type “cmd” in the Windows search bar.
   • Right-click on “Command Prompt” and select “Run as administrator.”
2. Run SFC Scan:
   • In the Command Prompt window, type sfc /scannow and press Enter.
   • Wait for the scan to complete. This process will verify and repair corrupted system files that may be causing the DLL error.
3. Restart Your Computer:
   • Once the scan is finished, restart your computer to apply any repairs made by the System File Checker.

Method 4: Update Windows

1. Check for Updates:
   • Go to Settings > Update & Security > Windows Update.
   • Click on “Check for updates” and allow Windows to download and install any pending updates.
2. Restart Your Computer:
   • After the updates are installed, restart your computer to ensure all changes are applied effectively.

Method 5: Reinstall the Affected Program

If the error message appears when launching a specific program:

• Uninstall the program.
• Download the latest version from the official website or a trusted source.
• Install the program again and check if the issue persists.

FAQs about “vcruntime140_1.dll was not found”

Q1: Can I manually download vcruntime140_1.dll and place it in the system directory?

A1: While it’s possible to download DLL files from various online sources, it’s not recommended due to potential security risks and compatibility issues. It’s safer and more effective to reinstall the Visual C++ Redistributable Packages.

Q2: Will reinstalling Windows fix the “vcruntime140_1.dll was not found” error?

A2: Reinstalling Windows is a drastic solution and should only be considered if all other methods fail. It will likely fix the issue, but you’ll lose all your installed programs and personal files unless they are backed up.

Q3: Why does this error sometimes appear after Windows updates?

A3: Windows updates can sometimes overwrite or interfere with DLL files like vcruntime140_1.dll. Reinstalling the Visual C++ Redistributable Packages after updates can resolve compatibility issues.

Conclusion

Navigating the complexities of DLL errors can be daunting, but armed with the right knowledge and tools, you can conquer them with confidence. The next time you encounter the dreaded “vcruntime140_1.dll was not found” error, remember the steps outlined in this guide. Whether you opt to reinstall Visual C++ Redistributable Packages, run system checks, or update your software, there’s a solution tailored to restore your computer’s functionality swiftly.

By following these troubleshooting methods, you’ll not only fix the immediate issue but also deepen your understanding of how DLL files and system dependencies work within Windows. Embrace the challenge, empower yourself with knowledge, and keep your PC running smoothly for all your work and entertainment needs. Happy computing!