The msvcp120.dll Missing Error is a common Windows problem that occurs when a program cannot find the required msvcp120.dll file. This DLL file is part of the Microsoft Visual C++ 2013 Redistributable package and is required by many applications, games, and software programs to run correctly.
When this file is missing or corrupted, Windows may display messages such as:
- “The program can’t start because msvcp120.dll is missing from your computer.”
- “msvcp120.dll not found.”
- “The code execution cannot proceed because msvcp120.dll was not found.”
This error is commonly seen when launching older games, multimedia software, design applications, and programs developed with Microsoft Visual C++ 2013.
What Is msvcp120.dll?
msvcp120.dll is a Dynamic Link Library file included with Microsoft Visual C++ 2013 Redistributable. It contains C++ standard library functions required by applications created with Visual Studio 2013.
Many Windows applications depend on this file for essential operations, including:
- Data processing
- Memory handling
- Standard C++ functions
- Application execution
If msvcp120.dll is missing, the affected application may fail to start.
Why Does the msvcp120.dll Missing Error Occur?
Several reasons can cause this DLL error:
1. Missing Microsoft Visual C++ 2013 Redistributable
The most common cause is that the required Visual C++ 2013 runtime package is not installed on your system.
2. Corrupted msvcp120.dll File
The DLL file may become damaged due to system crashes, malware, incomplete installations, or unexpected shutdowns.
3. Incomplete Software Installation
A program may not install all required runtime components correctly.
4. Windows System Changes
System updates, repairs, or manual changes may affect installed Visual C++ components.
5. Malware Infection
Viruses or malicious software may delete or modify important DLL files.
Symptoms of msvcp120.dll Error
Common signs include:
- Programs failing to open
- Games crashing during startup
- Software installation failures
- DLL warning messages
- Applications freezing or closing unexpectedly
How to Fix msvcp120.dll Missing Error
1. Install Microsoft Visual C++ 2013 Redistributable
The recommended solution is to install the official Microsoft Visual C++ 2013 Redistributable package.
Steps:
- Download the correct Visual C++ 2013 Redistributable package.
- Install it on your computer.
- Restart Windows.
- Open the affected program again.
2. Repair Visual C++ 2013 Redistributable
If the package is already installed:
- Open Control Panel.
- Select Programs and Features.
- Find Microsoft Visual C++ 2013 Redistributable.
- Select Modify.
- Choose Repair.
- Restart your computer.
3. Reinstall the Affected Application
If only one program displays the error:
- Uninstall the application.
- Restart your computer.
- Download the latest version from the official source.
- Install it again.
4. Run System File Checker
Windows includes a built-in tool to repair damaged system files.
Steps:
- Open Command Prompt as Administrator.
- Type:
sfc /scannow
- Press Enter.
- Wait for the scan to finish.
- Restart your PC.
5. Install Windows Updates
Windows updates can fix compatibility problems and replace outdated system components.
Steps:
- Open Settings.
- Go to Windows Update.
- Click Check for Updates.
- Install available updates.
6. Scan Your Computer for Malware
Run a complete antivirus scan to check whether malware is causing DLL file damage.
Should You Download msvcp120.dll Separately?
Downloading individual DLL files from random websites is not recommended. These files may be unsafe, outdated, or incompatible with your system.
The safer approach is to install the official Microsoft Visual C++ Redistributable package or reinstall the software that requires the missing file.
How to Prevent msvcp120.dll Errors
Follow these practices to avoid future DLL problems:
- Keep Windows updated
- Install software from trusted sources
- Keep Visual C++ Redistributable packages installed
- Avoid deleting files from Windows folders
- Use reliable antivirus protection
- Create restore points before major system changes
Conclusion
The msvcp120.dll Missing Error is usually caused by missing or damaged Microsoft Visual C++ 2013 runtime files. Installing the correct Visual C++ Redistributable package, repairing existing components, or reinstalling the affected application can usually solve the issue.
Maintaining your Windows system and following safe software installation practices can help prevent DLL errors and keep your applications running smoothly.