Encountering errors on your computer can disrupt your workflow and cause unnecessary stress. The MSVCP110 missing error on Windows typically appears when attempting to launch specific programs or games. This issue stems from a vital file that supports many applications built with Microsoft Visual C++ tools.
Many users face this problem after installing new software or updating their system. It usually shows a clear message stating that the program cannot start because MSVCP110 dll is absent. Understanding this error helps you apply the right solutions quickly and avoid wasting time on ineffective methods.
This error affects every Windows version from 7 to 11. It reminds us how important system file maintenance really is. By fixing it promptly, you prevent bigger issues and keep your daily computing smooth and enjoyable.
Understanding DLL Files And Their Role
DLL files act as shared libraries that multiple programs use at the same time. They contain ready-made code and data that applications need to run correctly. Without proper DLLs, software simply refuses to load or crashes immediately.
The MSVCP110 dll specifically belongs to the Microsoft Visual C++ 2012 Redistributable package. It supplies essential C++ functions for thousands of programs and games. When this file disappears or gets damaged, every dependent application shows the same frustrating error.
These libraries save space and improve efficiency by letting programs share common code. Developers love them because they don’t have to rewrite basic functions. Users benefit from smaller downloads and faster performance when everything works correctly.
“DLL files are the backbone of efficient software operation, ensuring seamless performance across applications.”
What Triggers The MSVCP110 Missing Error
Several everyday events can make this file vanish or become unusable. Unexpected shutdowns, power failures, or forced restarts often corrupt system files. Malware deliberately deletes or modifies critical DLLs to cause chaos.
Incorrectly uninstalling software is another common culprit. Some uninstallers remove shared DLLs that other programs still need. Outdated or conflicting Visual C++ versions also overwrite the correct file.
Hardware problems like failing hard drives create bad sectors that damage stored files. Interrupted downloads and failed Windows updates leave incomplete or broken components. All these scenarios lead to the exact same error message.
Symptoms Of The MSVCP110 DLL Issue
The clearest sign is the popup that says “The program can’t start because MSVCP110 dll is missing from your computer.” Programs close immediately after showing this message. Games, Adobe apps, and many utilities refuse to launch.
You may notice sudden slowdowns or random crashes in affected software. Some applications show blank screens or freeze during startup. Multiple programs failing at once strongly points to this exact DLL problem.
In rare cases, the error appears during Windows startup or shutdown. This signals deeper system corruption. Recognizing these patterns early lets you fix the issue before it spreads.
Why Avoid Third-Party DLL Downloads
Unofficial websites promise instant single-file downloads, but they are extremely dangerous. Most contain viruses, trojans, or ransomware disguised as legitimate DLLs. Your entire system becomes vulnerable the moment you run them.
Only Microsoft provides digitally signed, guaranteed-safe versions. Third-party files often lack proper signatures and get blocked by Windows anyway. They might work temporarily but usually create new errors later.
Safe computing means never taking shortcuts with system files. One wrong download can cost hundreds of dollars in cleanup and data recovery. Always choose official methods for complete peace of mind.
“Steer clear of risky downloads to protect your system’s integrity and avoid bigger problems.”
Preparing Your System For Fixes
Always back up important files before starting repairs. Use external drives or cloud storage for safety. This simple step protects your data no matter what happens.
Update and run your antivirus to remove any malware first. A clean system makes every fix work better. Restart into Safe Mode if normal mode keeps crashing.
Make sure you have administrator rights for all steps. Most repairs need elevated privileges to work properly. These preparations take only minutes but save hours of frustration.
Method One: Reinstall The Affected Program
Identify which program first showed the error. Completely uninstall it through Settings → Apps or Control Panel. Remove all leftover folders manually if needed.
Download the latest version directly from the official developer website. Run the new installer and follow every prompt carefully. Launch the program to test success.
Reinstalling often brings its own copy of required DLLs. This method works perfectly when only one or two programs are affected. It’s simple, fast, and completely safe.
Method Two: Install Visual C++ Redistributable
This is the single most effective fix for almost everyone. Download Microsoft Visual C++ 2012 Redistributable (both x86 and x64) from the official Microsoft site. Run each installer with administrator rights.
Restart your computer after both finish. Windows registers the new files during boot. Test your programs – they should start instantly.
Install both 32-bit and 64-bit versions even on 64-bit Windows. Most programs are still 32-bit and need the x86 package. This one step fixes 90% of all cases permanently.
“Installing the right redistributable package is often the quickest path to error-free computing.”
Verifying System Architecture For Installation
Open Settings → System → About and look under “Device specifications.” It clearly says 32-bit or 64-bit operating system. This information decides exactly which packages you need.
64-bit Windows happily runs both architectures side by side. Installing only one leaves half your software broken. Always install both unless you’re absolutely certain.
Repairing Existing Visual C++ Installations
Open Programs and Features in Control Panel. Find Microsoft Visual C++ 2012 entries. Right-click and choose Change → Repair.
The repair wizard scans and replaces damaged files automatically. No download needed if the package exists. Restart afterward to complete the fix.
Use repair first – it’s faster than fresh installation. Only reinstall if repair fails or entries are missing completely.
Method Three: Run System File Checker
Open Command Prompt as administrator. Type exactly sfc /scannow and press Enter. Wait patiently – it can take 10-20 minutes.
SFC automatically finds and replaces corrupted or missing system files. It pulls perfect copies from Windows cache or online. Restart when it finishes.
This built-in tool fixes hundreds of problems at once. It’s completely free and requires zero technical skill. Run it monthly for ongoing protection.
Using DISM Tool For Advanced Repairs
In admin Command Prompt, type DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /RestoreHealth. Let it run – it may take 20-40 minutes. DISM repairs the Windows image that SFC depends on.
Run SFC again after DISM finishes. Together they fix even the toughest corruption. Professionals use this exact sequence daily.
“Leverage built-in tools like SFC and DISM for reliable system file restoration without external help.”
Method Four: Perform System Restore
Search “system restore” and open the tool. Choose a restore point from before the error started. Follow the wizard and let Windows rollback changes.
Your personal files stay 100% safe. Only system files and settings revert. The missing DLL often reappears perfectly.
Create manual restore points before big updates. They become lifesavers when things go wrong. This method works when nothing else does.
Method Five: Update Windows Completely
Go to Settings → Windows Update → Check for updates. Install everything, including optional updates. Restart as many times as needed.
Microsoft regularly patches known DLL issues. Cumulative updates often contain fixed runtime libraries. Keep automatic updates enabled forever.
Method Six: Full Malware Removal
Run Windows Security full scan or your trusted antivirus. Remove everything it finds. Boot into Safe Mode for stubborn infections.
Some malware specifically targets Visual C++ files. Complete removal can restore the DLL instantly. Schedule weekly scans for ongoing safety.
Method Seven: Check Disk For Errors
Open Command Prompt as admin and type chkdsk C: /f /r. Schedule for next restart if needed. It fixes file system errors and bad sectors.
Healthy disks prevent future corruption. Combine with monthly defragmentation on HDDs. SSDs use TRIM instead.
“Regular disk maintenance keeps your system running smoothly and prevents file-related errors.”
Method Eight: Re-register The DLL File
Open admin Command Prompt. Type regsvr32 /i MSVCP110 dll and press Enter. Restart when it confirms success.
Re-registration fixes broken links even when the file exists. Simple, fast, and completely safe when done correctly.
Method Nine: Reset Windows Components
Use Media Creation Tool → Repair this PC (keep files). This refreshes all system components without losing data. Last resort but extremely effective.
Preventing Future MSVCP110 Errors
Keep all Visual C++ packages installed permanently. Use UPS to prevent sudden shutdowns. Never interrupt Windows updates. Install software only from trusted sources.
Best Practices For System Maintenance
Schedule weekly antivirus scans and updates. Clean temporary files monthly. Monitor disk health regularly. Create restore points before big changes.
Troubleshooting Advanced Scenarios
Try clean boot to isolate conflicts. Test RAM with Windows Memory Diagnostic. Check Event Viewer logs for patterns. Reinstall Windows only as absolute last step.
Windows Version Specific Tips
Windows 7 needs Service Pack 1 + both redistributables. Windows 10/11 benefit from built-in troubleshooters. Enable Core Isolation on Windows 11 for extra protection.
Impact On Gaming And Creative Software
Games like PUBG, Fortnite, and older titles launch perfectly. Adobe CS6-CC 2019 works again. Save files and projects before major fixes.
“Resolving DLL errors unlocks the full potential of your favorite games and tools.”
Role Of Registry In DLL Errors
Corrupted registry keys break file associations. Trusted cleaners fix this safely. Always backup registry first.
Long-Term System Health Strategies
Invest in quality hardware and UPS. Keep Windows and drivers updated. Use layered security. Document everything you do.
Conclusion:
Fix MSVCP110 missing error instantly by installing both official Visual C++ 2012 Redistributables (x86+x64), running SFC+DISM scans, removing malware, and keeping Windows updated for permanent stability and performance.