Windows Error DLL-Missing — DLL Not Found

Windows "DLL Not Found" error means the application cannot find a required Dynamic Link Library file to run. This guide covers everything you need to know about this topic, including common causes, step-by-step solutions, and answers to frequently asked questions.

Here are the key things to understand: Common missing DLLs: MSVCP140.dll, VCRUNTIME140.dll, api-ms-win-crt-runtime. Application requires specific DLLs to function. DLL may be deleted, corrupted, or never installed. Usually related to Visual C++ or DirectX runtime. Understanding these fundamentals will help you diagnose and resolve this issue more effectively.

The most common reasons this occurs include: Visual C++ Redistributable not installed. DLL accidentally deleted by cleanup software. Antivirus quarantined the DLL file. Application installer did not include required DLLs. Identifying the root cause is the first step toward finding the right solution.

To resolve this, follow these recommended steps: Install Visual C++ Redistributable (x86 AND x64 versions). Install DirectX End-User Runtime for DirectX DLLs. Reinstall the application that shows the error. Never download individual DLLs from random websites. If these steps do not resolve the issue, consider consulting additional resources or a qualified professional.

This article is part of our Windows Error Codes collection on Error Codes Wiki. We provide comprehensive, up-to-date information to help you find solutions quickly.