Have you encountered the dreaded “msvcp120.dll is missing” error message? This frustrating issue can prevent you from launching various programs and games, leaving you feeling helpless. Fear not, because this guide will equip you with the knowledge and tools to solve this common problem.
Understanding the msvcp120.dll
msvcp120.dll stands for Microsoft Visual C++ Redistributable Package, a crucial component for running applications built using the Visual C++ library. This file acts as a bridge between your software and the underlying operating system, facilitating smooth operation. When this file is missing or corrupted, it can lead to compatibility issues, preventing your programs from functioning properly.
Common Causes of the Missing msvcp120.dll
Several factors can contribute to the missing msvcp120.dll error:
- Incomplete installation: A corrupted or incomplete installation of the application requiring the file might cause the error.
- Malware infection: Malicious software can delete or corrupt system files, including msvcp120.dll.
- Damaged system files: System file corruption, often due to outdated drivers or registry errors, can lead to missing dll files.
- Missing Visual C++ Redistributable Package: The application you are trying to run might require a specific version of the Visual C++ Redistributable Package, which could be missing or outdated on your system.
Troubleshooting Steps: A Systematic Approach
Restart Your Computer: Sometimes, a simple restart can resolve temporary glitches and refresh your system’s memory, potentially fixing the error.
Check Your Antivirus Software: Run a full system scan with your antivirus software to ensure no malware is corrupting your system files. If malware is detected and removed, the error might disappear.
Reinstall the Visual C++ Redistributable Package: This is the most likely solution to the missing msvcp120.dll error. Here’s how:
- Identify the required version: Search for the application’s system requirements or download page. This will often specify the required version of Visual C++ Redistributable Package (e.g., Visual C++ Redistributable for Visual Studio 2012).
- Download the correct package: Visit the official Microsoft website and download the corresponding Visual C++ Redistributable Package. Choose the appropriate version for your operating system (32-bit or 64-bit).
- Install the package: Run the downloaded installer file and follow the on-screen instructions to complete the installation process.
- Restart your computer: Once the installation is finished, restart your computer to ensure the changes take effect.
Run a System File Checker (SFC) Scan: If the error persists, you can try repairing corrupt system files with the System File Checker tool. Here’s how:
- Open Command Prompt: Search for “cmd” in the Start menu, right-click on the command prompt icon and select “Run as administrator.”
- Run the SFC scan: Type
sfc /scannowand press Enter. This process will scan your system files and replace corrupted ones. - Restart your computer: Once the scan is complete, restart your computer.
Reinstall the Affected Application: If the error persists after attempting the previous steps, consider reinstalling the application encountering the missing dll issue. This process will overwrite the existing files, potentially resolving the problem.
Additional Tips for Solving the Missing msvcp120.dll Error:
- Update your drivers: Outdated drivers can cause system file conflicts and lead to the missing dll error.
- Clean your registry: Registry errors can also contribute to missing dll files. Consider using a reputable registry cleaner to fix any issues.
- Use a DLL repair tool: There are specialized tools available that can scan your system for missing or corrupt DLL files and attempt to repair them. However, exercise caution when using such tools, as some may be unreliable or contain malware.
Preventive Measures to Avoid Future Issues:
- Keep your system updated: Regularly update your operating system, applications, and drivers to ensure compatibility and fix potential vulnerabilities.
- Be cautious with downloads: Download software only from trusted sources like official websites or reputable app stores.
- Run a regular antivirus scan: Regularly scan your system for malware to prevent file corruption and ensure system stability.
- Backup your data: Create regular backups of your important files to protect against data loss in case of system failure or file corruption.
Conclusion: A Smooth Road Ahead
The missing msvcp120.dll error can be frustrating, but it is not insurmountable. By following the troubleshooting steps and preventive measures outlined in this guide, you can effectively resolve this common issue and ensure your programs run smoothly. Remember to always download files from trusted sources, keep your system updated, and maintain a healthy antivirus routine to prevent future occurrences of missing dll errors.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What is msvcp120.dll and why is it missing?
msvcp120.dll is a crucial dynamic-link library (DLL) file that forms part of the Microsoft Visual C++ Redistributable package. It contains essential runtime libraries that certain applications need to function correctly. The error “Missing msvcp120.dll” arises when your system cannot locate this DLL file in the required directory. This can happen due to various reasons like an incomplete installation, corrupted files, or a conflict with other software.
The absence of this file essentially means that the software in question can’t find the necessary components to execute properly. This will lead to error messages and prevent the application from starting. Therefore, it’s crucial to locate and install the missing DLL file to resolve the issue and allow the program to run smoothly.
2. How do I know if I’m missing msvcp120.dll?
You’ll encounter an error message when attempting to launch a program that requires this DLL file. The message usually mentions “msvcp120.dll” and indicates that it cannot be found. The exact wording may vary depending on the operating system and the application, but the core message remains the same.
Additionally, the specific error code associated with the missing file can help pinpoint the issue. For instance, error code 0xc000007b often suggests a missing or corrupted DLL file. These error messages serve as a clear indicator that you’re facing the “Missing msvcp120.dll” problem and need to address it to fix the program’s functionality.
3. What are the potential causes of a missing msvcp120.dll?
Several factors can contribute to the disappearance of the msvcp120.dll file from your system. One common cause is an incomplete or faulty installation of the Visual C++ Redistributable package. This can happen if the installation process was interrupted or if the installation files were corrupted. Another possible reason is that the DLL file might have been unintentionally deleted by a system cleaning tool or malware.
Furthermore, conflicts with other programs or updates can also lead to the removal or corruption of the msvcp120.dll file. Finally, outdated drivers or a lack of administrative privileges can also contribute to the problem. By identifying the specific cause, you can take the appropriate steps to resolve the issue and restore the missing DLL file.
4. How can I fix the missing msvcp120.dll error?
There are several solutions to fix the “Missing msvcp120.dll” error. One approach is to download and install the latest version of the Microsoft Visual C++ Redistributable package from the official Microsoft website. This package includes the necessary runtime libraries, including msvcp120.dll, and should resolve the issue.
Another effective solution is to run a system file checker scan to identify and repair any corrupted system files, including msvcp120.dll. Additionally, updating your drivers and ensuring you have the latest software updates can prevent future DLL issues. Finally, consider using a reliable registry cleaner to clean up any corrupt entries that might be interfering with the file’s functionality.
5. Is it safe to download msvcp120.dll from third-party websites?
While it might seem tempting to download the missing msvcp120.dll file from third-party websites, this is strongly discouraged. These websites often offer unofficial and potentially malicious versions of the DLL file, which could harm your system or introduce malware.
Instead, it’s always best to rely on official sources like the Microsoft website to obtain the necessary files. This ensures that you get a legitimate, virus-free version of the DLL file, protecting your system from potential security threats.
6. Can I manually copy msvcp120.dll to the required location?
While you can manually copy the msvcp120.dll file to the appropriate directory, this is not recommended as a permanent solution. Simply copying the file might not solve the underlying issue, and the missing DLL error could re-emerge.
Instead, it’s crucial to address the root cause of the problem. Installing the Visual C++ Redistributable package or running a system file checker scan are more effective solutions that address the core issue and ensure long-term stability.
7. How can I prevent the “Missing msvcp120.dll” error in the future?
To prevent the “Missing msvcp120.dll” error in the future, you should regularly update your operating system and software applications. This ensures that you have the latest patches and security fixes, which can help prevent DLL conflicts and errors.
Moreover, avoid installing software from unreliable sources, as they might contain corrupted files or malicious code. Finally, ensure that your system is protected by a reliable antivirus program to prevent malware infections that can delete or corrupt essential files.