How to Fix Microsoft C++ Runtime Library Error? 7 Solutions

Encountering the Microsoft C++ Runtime Library error can be frustrating, especially when it disrupts your gaming experience or your ability to run essential applications. This error typically arises due to issues with your system’s C++ Redistributable packages, which are crucial for running software that relies on Microsoft’s C++ libraries. Fortunately, there are several straightforward solutions you can try to resolve this issue. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the steps to fix the Microsoft C++ Runtime Library error and get your system back to normal.

What is the Microsoft C++ Runtime Library Error?

The Microsoft C++ Runtime Library error often appears when there is a conflict or corruption in the C++ redistributable packages required by applications. These libraries are vital for programs to run properly, and when there’s an issue with them, the error can cause applications to crash or fail to launch.

You might encounter a message like:

• "Microsoft C++ Runtime Library Error"
• "Runtime Error!"
• "This application has requested the Runtime to terminate it in an unusual way"

This issue can be caused by a variety of reasons, including outdated C++ Redistributable packages, conflicts between software, or even corrupted system files.

How to Fix Microsoft C++ Runtime Library Error

Follow these steps to resolve the Microsoft C++ Runtime Library error on your PC.

1. Update Your C++ Redistributable Packages

The first step in fixing this error is to ensure your system is running the latest version of the Microsoft Visual C++ Redistributable packages. Microsoft frequently updates these packages, and installing the latest versions can resolve compatibility issues and bugs.

To update or install the necessary C++ Redistributables:

1. Visit the official Microsoft website and download the latest Visual C++ Redistributable Packages for your system (both 32-bit and 64-bit versions).
2. If you already have them installed, uninstall the current versions first, then reinstall the latest version.
3. After installation, restart your computer to ensure the changes take effect.

2. Repair or Reinstall Microsoft Visual C++ Redistributables

If updating doesn’t solve the issue, you can try repairing or reinstalling the Microsoft Visual C++ Redistributable packages. Sometimes, the packages may become corrupted, causing the error to appear.

To repair or reinstall:

1. Open the Control Panel and go to Programs > Programs and Features.
2. Find the Microsoft Visual C++ Redistributable entries in the list.
3. Right-click on each entry and select Change. Then, choose Repair to fix the existing installation.
4. If repairing doesn’t work, uninstall the packages and reinstall the latest versions from the Microsoft website.

3. Check for Windows Updates

Keeping your operating system up to date is crucial for preventing errors related to system files and libraries. Windows updates often include important patches for Visual C++ Redistributable packages and other components that could be causing the error.

To check for updates:

1. Go to Settings > Update & Security.
2. Click on Windows Update and then select Check for updates.
3. Install any available updates and restart your PC.

4. Perform a System File Check

Corrupted or missing system files can contribute to the Microsoft C++ Runtime Library error. Running a system file check (SFC) can help detect and repair these issues automatically.

To run SFC:

• Open Command Prompt as an administrator by typing cmd in the Windows search bar, right-clicking on it, and selecting Run as administrator.
• In the Command Prompt window, type the following command and press Enter:

sfc /scannow

• Wait for the scan to complete. If any issues are found, SFC will attempt to fix them automatically.
• Once the process finishes, restart your computer and check if the error persists.

5. Reinstall the Affected Application

If the error is occurring with a specific application, it could be related to a conflict or corruption within that program’s files. Reinstalling the program can often resolve the issue.

To reinstall the application:

1. Open Control Panel > Programs and Features.
2. Find the program that’s giving you the error and uninstall it.
3. Go to the application’s official website or installation source and download the latest version.
4. Install the program and restart your PC to see if the error is resolved.

6. Check for Software Conflicts

In some cases, other installed software might conflict with the C++ Runtime Library, causing the error. Disabling or uninstalling recently installed applications or updates can help determine if a specific program is causing the issue.

Try disabling background programs and restarting your computer to see if the error disappears. If you suspect a particular program, uninstalling it may resolve the issue.

7. Use System Restore (Optional)

If none of the above methods work, performing a System Restore to a previous point in time when your system was working properly can help fix the issue. This will revert your system to its earlier configuration, removing any recent changes that might have caused the error.

To use System Restore:

1. Type System Restore in the Windows search bar and select Create a restore point.
2. In the System Properties window, click on System Restore and follow the prompts to select a restore point before the error started occurring.
3. Once the restore is complete, your system will return to its previous state, and you can check if the error is resolved.

Conclusion

The Microsoft C++ Runtime Library error can be a frustrating issue to deal with, but with the steps outlined in this guide, you should be able to resolve it efficiently. By updating or reinstalling the C++ Redistributables, checking for system updates, running a system file check, or reinstalling the affected application, you can fix the error and get your system back on track.

For a more detailed walkthrough of these solutions, visit our full guide on how to fix the Microsoft C++ Runtime Library error here.

Take action today and say goodbye to that frustrating error!