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An outdated graphics driver is one of the most common triggers for the Visual C++ runtime error.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).
- Expand the Display Adapters section.
- Right click on your graphics driver > Update Driver.
- Choose “Search Automatically” and follow the prompts.
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).
- Type “msconfig” and open System Configuration.
- Go to the Services tab and check “Hide Microsoft Services”. Click “Disable All”.
- Go to the Startup tab and open Task Manager.
- In Task Manager, disable all startup items.
- 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.