The msvcp110.dll Missing Error is a common Windows issue that occurs when a program cannot find the required msvcp110.dll file. This DLL file is part of the Microsoft Visual C++ 2012 Redistributable package and is required by many applications, games, and software programs to run properly.
When this file is missing or corrupted, Windows may display messages such as:
- “The program can’t start because msvcp110.dll is missing from your computer.”
- “msvcp110.dll not found.”
- “The code execution cannot proceed because msvcp110.dll was not found.”
This error commonly appears when launching older games, graphics applications, development tools, and other programs created with Microsoft Visual C++ 2012.
What Is msvcp110.dll?
msvcp110.dll is a Dynamic Link Library file included with Microsoft Visual C++ 2012 Redistributable. It contains C++ standard library functions required by applications developed using Visual Studio 2012.
Many Windows programs depend on these runtime files for tasks such as:
- Memory management
- Data processing
- Program execution
- Standard C++ operations
If msvcp110.dll is unavailable, affected applications may fail to launch.
Why Does the msvcp110.dll Missing Error Occur?
Several reasons can cause this DLL error:
1. Missing Microsoft Visual C++ 2012 Redistributable
The most common cause is that the required Visual C++ 2012 runtime package is not installed on your computer.
2. Corrupted DLL File
The msvcp110.dll file may become damaged due to system crashes, malware, incomplete installations, or unexpected shutdowns.
3. Incorrect Software Installation
A program may fail to install all required runtime files correctly.
4. Windows System Changes
Updates, system repairs, or manual changes can affect Visual C++ runtime components.
5. Malware Infection
Malicious software can remove or modify important DLL files.
Symptoms of msvcp110.dll Error
Common signs include:
- Applications failing to start
- Games crashing at launch
- Software installation problems
- DLL-related error messages
- Programs freezing or closing unexpectedly
How to Fix msvcp110.dll Missing Error
1. Install Microsoft Visual C++ 2012 Redistributable
The recommended solution is to install the official Microsoft Visual C++ 2012 Redistributable package.
Steps:
- Download the correct Visual C++ 2012 Redistributable package.
- Install it on your computer.
- Restart Windows.
- Launch the affected application again.
2. Repair Visual C++ 2012 Redistributable
If the package is already installed:
- Open Control Panel.
- Go to Programs and Features.
- Find Microsoft Visual C++ 2012 Redistributable.
- Select Modify.
- Choose Repair.
- Restart your computer.
3. Reinstall the Affected Program
If the error appears with one specific application:
- Uninstall the program.
- Restart your PC.
- Download the latest version from the official source.
- Install it again.
4. Run System File Checker
Windows includes a built-in tool to repair corrupted system files.
Steps:
- Open Command Prompt as Administrator.
- Type:
sfc /scannow
- Press Enter.
- Wait until the scan completes.
- Restart your computer.
5. Install Windows Updates
Windows updates can improve compatibility and fix system-related issues.
Steps:
- Open Settings.
- Select Windows Update.
- Click Check for Updates.
- Install available updates.
6. Scan Your Computer for Malware
Run a full security scan to check whether malware is causing DLL corruption or deletion.
Should You Download msvcp110.dll Separately?
Downloading individual DLL files from random websites is not recommended. These files may be unsafe, outdated, or incompatible with your Windows version.
The safest solution is to install the official Microsoft Visual C++ Redistributable package or reinstall the software that requires the missing file.
How to Prevent msvcp110.dll Errors
Follow these tips to avoid future DLL problems:
- Keep Windows updated
- Install applications from trusted sources
- Maintain Visual C++ Redistributable packages
- Avoid deleting files from system folders
- Use antivirus protection
- Create restore points before major system changes
Conclusion
The msvcp110.dll Missing Error is usually caused by missing or damaged Microsoft Visual C++ 2012 runtime components. Installing the correct Visual C++ Redistributable package, repairing existing files, or reinstalling the affected application can usually fix the problem.
Regular Windows maintenance and safe software installation practices can help prevent DLL errors and keep applications running smoothly.