Summary
That frustrating moment when a crucial application refuses to launch, halted by a msvcp140_2.dll missing error, is a common Windows headache. Before you consider drastic measures, rest assured that this error is almost always solvable with a clear, systematic approach. This definitive 2025 guide will walk you through exactly how to repair msvcp140_2.dll errors on Windows 10 and 11, starting with simple checks before advancing to proven solutions like reinstalling the Microsoft Visual C++ Redistributable. Follow our step-by-step instructions to resolve the issue efficiently and get back to your work.
Method 2: Run a System File Checker (SFC) Scan
If reinstalling the Visual C++ Redistributable didn’t resolve the issue, the problem may lie deeper than a single missing component. The msvcp140_2.dll missing error could be a symptom of broader system file corruption. This is where Windows’ built-in repair utility, the System File Checker (SFC), becomes an invaluable tool. The SFC scan is designed to meticulously inspect all protected system files, and perhaps most importantly, it can automatically replace any that are corrupted or missing with a cached, known-good copy.
Running an SFC scan is a powerful, system-level intervention. It’s the digital equivalent of having a master blueprint to check and repair the core structure of your operating system. When system files become damaged—due to a faulty update, a malware incident, or a failing storage drive—applications can lose access to critical resources, triggering errors like the one you’re experiencing. The SFC tool cross-references the current state of your system files against the versions stored in a protected cache, ensuring integrity.
How It Works: The SFC tool uses a local cache (located in the
C:\Windows\WinSxS\folder) to repair files. If this cache is itself damaged, you may need to use theDISM(Deployment Image Servicing and Management) tool first to restore the cache’s health, a step we’ll cover if the initial SFC scan fails.
To execute the scan, you must open a Command Prompt or PowerShell window with administrative privileges. Press the Windows Key, type “cmd” or “powershell,” right-click the result, and select “Run as administrator.” In the new window, type the following command and press Enter:
sfc /scannow
The process will begin, displaying a progress percentage. This can take anywhere from 10 to 30 minutes, so be patient and avoid interrupting it. Once complete, the tool will report its findings. You’ll see one of three primary results:
| Result Message | What It Means |
|---|---|
| “Windows Resource Protection did not find any integrity violations.” | Your system files are intact. The DLL error is not due to system file corruption. |
| “Windows Resource Protection found corrupt files and successfully repaired them.” | The scan found and fixed issues. Restart your computer and test the application again. |
| “Windows Resource Protection found corrupt files but was unable to fix some of them.” | The local cache may be damaged. Further action with the DISM tool is required. |
A successful SFC scan is a highly effective fix for stubborn DLL errors that stem from underlying system instability. If it reports a clean bill of health or successfully repairs the files, your msvcp140_2.dll issue should be resolved. However, if the tool cannot complete the repairs, the next logical step involves refreshing the repair source itself to ensure a solid foundation for any corrective action.
Conclusion
By following this systematic guide, you’ve addressed the core issue behind the msvcp140_2.dll missing error. We recommend starting with the simplest checks, like a system restart, before proceeding to reinstall the Microsoft Visual C++ Redistributable or run an SFC scan. Your most effective next step is to ensure you have downloaded the correct redistributable package for your system, as this is the definitive solution for most users.
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