Our verdict: Install the Visual C++ Redistributable when a program fails with a missing MSVCP140.dll, VCRUNTIME140.dll or similar error. One current v14 package covers apps built with Visual Studio 2017 to 2026. It is not an app you use directly, and older programs may still need the legacy 2013 or earlier packages.
About Microsoft Visual C++ Redistributable
The Visual C++ Redistributable installs the Microsoft C and C++ runtime libraries. Programs built with Microsoft's MSVC tools need these libraries on the PC, and a package at least as new as the build tools used must be installed. Without them, apps and games often refuse to start with an error about a missing DLL.
Visual Studio 2017, 2019, 2022 and 2026 share one v14 runtime, so the latest supported package covers apps built with any of them. Microsoft publishes permanent links that always point to the newest version. The x64 package also contains the ARM64 binaries. Packages for Visual Studio 2013 and earlier install side by side and are no longer supported.
What it does well
- One package for VS 2017–2026. The latest v14 runtime works for apps built with any of these versions.
- Always the newest version. Microsoft's permanent link downloads the latest supported build.
- x64 plus ARM64. The x64 package also installs the ARM64 binaries on ARM64 devices.
- In-place upgrade. Updates the older 2015 runtime to the current v14 version.
- Command-line options. Supports silent installation for scripts and deployment.
Who it is for
Good fit
Anyone who sees a missing MSVCP140.dll or VCRUNTIME140.dll error, and people setting up a new PC for games.
Look elsewhere
Programs that need the old 2013, 2012, 2010 or 2008 runtimes; those are separate downloads.
Pros and cons
Pros
- Official Microsoft package
- Permanent link always gets the latest version
- Fixes common missing-DLL errors
Cons
- Does not include the legacy 2013 and older runtimes
- Latest version supports only Windows 10, 11 and Server 2016 or later
- 32-bit apps need the separate x86 package
How to install Microsoft Visual C++ Redistributable
Download the x64 package and run it; restart if the installer asks. On 64-bit Windows, many apps also need the x86 package, which is linked on the same Microsoft page. If installation fails, Microsoft's troubleshooting guide is linked from the download page.
Questions about Microsoft Visual C++ Redistributable
Is the Visual C++ Redistributable free?
Yes. Microsoft provides it free of charge for end users. Developers who bundle it with their apps must follow the Visual Studio license terms.
Do I need both x64 and x86 versions?
On 64-bit Windows, 64-bit apps use the x64 package and 32-bit apps use the x86 package. If you are not sure, install both from Microsoft's page.
Which version do I need for Visual Studio 2015?
Support for the 2015 runtime ended on October 15, 2025. The latest v14 package is binary compatible with apps built with Visual Studio 2015 and upgrades the 2015 runtime in place.
