Microsoft Visual C++ Runtime Error Fix: 12 Methods That Work (Update, Repair + More)

Encountering a Microsoft Visual C++ Runtime error can be frustrating for Windows users. These runtime errors typically occur when a program is unable to load the Visual C++ libraries it needs to run properly. To resolve the issue, users will need to repair or reinstall the Visual C++ Redistributable package on their system using the Microsoft Visual C++ Redistributable installer.

1. Update Your Graphics Drivers

An outdated graphics driver is one of the most common triggers for the Visual C++ runtime error. To update your drivers:

  • Open Device Manager (type “device manager” in the search box).
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  • Expand the Display Adapters section.
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  • Right click on your graphics driver > Update Driver.
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  • Choose “Search Automatically” and follow the prompts.
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Updating to the latest graphics drivers often resolves runtime issues caused by driver conflicts.

2. Perform a Clean Boot

Third-party startup programs and services can sometimes conflict with the Visual C++ runtime libraries. Doing a clean boot prevents these programs from starting:

  • Open the Run box (Win + R).
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  • Type “msconfig” and open System Configuration.
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  • Go to the Services tab and check “Hide Microsoft Services”. Click “Disable All”.
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  • Go to the Startup tab and open Task Manager.
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  • In Task Manager, disable all startup items.
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  • Restart your PC in this clean boot state.

If the error disappears, re-enable startup items one by one until you find the problematic program.

3. Reinstall the Visual C++ Redistributables

Corrupted Visual C++ libraries can also cause runtime errors. To reinstall:

  • Open Programs and Features (appwiz.cpl).
  • Uninstall all existing Visual C++ Redistributables.
  • Download and reinstall the latest redistributables from Microsoft.
  • Restart your computer.

This will replace any damaged runtime files with fresh copies.

4. Disable Compatibility Mode

Compatibility mode can sometimes trigger runtime errors with certain programs:

  • Right click on the problematic executable.
  • Go to Properties > Compatibility tab.
  • Uncheck “Run this program in compatibility mode”.
  • Click Apply and OK.

Try running the application normally without compatibility mode.

5. Create a New User Account

Creating a new user profile isolates the problem:

  • Open Settings > Accounts > Family & Users.
  • Click “Add someone else to this PC”.
  • Choose “I don’t have sign-in information” to create a local account.
  • Switch to the new account and test if the error persists.

This determines if the issue is limited to your user profile or exists system-wide.

6. Uninstall Problem Applications

If the error appears with a specific app, try uninstalling and reinstalling it:

  • Open Control Panel > Programs > Programs and Features.
  • Locate and uninstall the problematic application.
  • Download a fresh copy and reinstall.

See if installing the app from scratch resolves runtime issues.

7. Run Windows Memory Diagnostic

System file corruption can lead to Visual C++ errors. Run diagnostics to check:

  • End the Windows Explorer process in Task Manager.
  • Type “mdsched” in the Run box to open Windows Memory Diagnostic.
  • Select “Restart now and check for problems”.
  • Allow the scans to complete on reboot.

This will detect and replace corrupted system files affecting the runtime.

8. Update BIOS/UEFI Firmware

Outdated motherboard firmware can cause conflicts with runtime libraries:

  • Go to your motherboard manufacturer’s website.
  • Download and install the latest BIOS or UEFI update.
  • Follow the prompts to flash the firmware.
  • Restart your PC and check for improvements.

Firmware updates optimize compatibility and stability.

9. Uninstall False Positive Antivirus Software

Some antivirus programs falsely detect Visual C++ runtime files as malware. This can damage the runtime and cause errors. If this occurs:

  • Open Control Panel and uninstall your antivirus.
  • Download and install a replacement like Microsoft Defender.
  • Exclude the Visual C++ directories from scans.

Switching antivirus software usually resolves this issue.

10. Run SFC and DISM System File Checker

Corrupted Windows system files can break the Visual C++ runtime. Use the built-in checkers:

  • Open an elevated Command Prompt.
  • Run “sfc /scannow” to scan system files.
  • Next run “DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /RestoreHealth” to repair files.
  • Restart your PC once completed.

SFC and DISM will replace damaged system files affecting the proper functioning of the runtime.

11. Perform a Windows Repair Install

If no other fixes work, a repair install retains your apps and data while replacing system files:

  • Boot from Windows 10 installation media.
  • Select “Repair your computer” at the first screen.
  • Choose “Troubleshoot” > “Reset this PC” > “Keep my files”.
  • The reset will reinstall Windows while preserving your personal files.

This is an effective last resort if no other solutions resolve your Visual C++ issues.

12. Clean Install Windows

For persistent or complex runtime issues, a clean install may be required:

  • Back up your files and data.
  • Boot from Windows 10 installation media.
  • Choose custom installation instead of upgrade.
  • Delete all partitions and install Windows on unallocated space.
  • Reinstall apps and restore personal data.

A clean install eliminates software issues by fully replacing system files.

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