When running certain software or games on Windows, many users encounter the error message: "The program can't start because msvcr100.dll is missing from your computer". This usually indicates that a required runtime library file is missing from the system, preventing the program from launching properly.
This article explains the causes of the msvcr100.dll missing issue and provides several reliable and effective solutions to help you resolve the problem and restore normal software functionality.
1. What Is msvcr100.dll?
msvcr100.dll is a crucial component of the Microsoft Visual C++ 2010 Redistributable, responsible for providing runtime support for C language features. If this DLL file is missing, corrupted, or not properly registered, software that depends on it may crash or fail to launch.
Common error messages include:
"The program can't start because msvcr100.dll is missing from your computer"
"msvcr100.dll is missing"
"This application has failed to start because msvcr100.dll was not found"
2. Common Causes of msvcr100.dll Missing
Incompatible drivers or system updates
DLL file accidentally deleted during software uninstallation
Improper installation or corruption of the Visual C++ Redistributable
Malware or virus infection damaging system files
Third-party cleaning tools mistakenly removing critical DLLs
3. Solutions to Fix msvcr100.dll Missing
Solution 1: Fix with Driver Talent X (Recommended for Beginners)
If you're not comfortable manually downloading and installing DLLs, Driver Talent X is a professional tool that can automatically repair such issues.
Download and install the latest version of Driver Talent X using the download button in the article.
On first use, click "Try Now" — the tool will automatically scan your system for driver and DLL issues.
Select "Full Checkup", then locate the missing msvcr100.dll under "Core DLL Files Abnormal", and click "Fix".
After the repair, restart your computer to ensure the DLL file is correctly loaded.
Tip: This tool can also fix related driver issues to prevent further system errors caused by missing components.
Solution 2: Install Microsoft Visual C++ 2010 Redistributable
Visit the official Microsoft download page via your browser.
Download and install the correct version based on your system:
32-bit system: vcredist_x86.exe
64-bit system: vcredist_x64.exe
After installation, restart your computer and try launching the program again.
Tip: If you're unsure about your system type, go to "Settings" > "System" > "About" to check.
Solution 3: Manually Copy msvcr100.dll to System Directory
Note: This method is for advanced users only. Make sure the file source is trustworthy.
Download msvcr100.dll from a reputable source, ensuring it matches your system version.
Copy the file to:
32-bit systems: C:\Windows\System32
64-bit systems: Both C:\Windows\System32 and C:\Windows\SysWOW64
Press Win + R, type: regsvr32 msvcr100.dll, and press Enter to register the DLL.
Restart your computer and check if the issue is resolved.
Solution 4: Check for Windows Updates
Some Windows updates include patches for Visual C++ libraries. Try the following:
Go to Settings > Windows Update.
Click "Check for updates", download, and install any available updates.
Restart your computer after updating.
Solution 5: Use System File Checker (SFC)
Search for Command Prompt, right-click, and choose "Run as Administrator".
In the command window, enter: sfc /scannow
Press Enter and wait for Windows to scan and repair corrupted or missing system files.
Restart your computer once the scan is complete.
4. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q1: I installed Visual C++, but the error still appears. Why?
A: Make sure you installed the 2010 version and that it matches your system architecture (x86 or x64). In some cases, both versions need to be installed.
Q2: Can I just download and replace the msvcr100.dll file?
A: It's not recommended to download DLL files from unofficial sources due to security risks. Always use Microsoft's official website or trusted tools.
Q3: What if the error persists after fixing?
A: Try uninstalling and reinstalling the affected program. If that doesn't help, use System Restore to roll back to a point when the system was functioning correctly.
Although the missing msvcr100.dll error is common, it's entirely fixable. By following the methods outlined in this guide—whether installing Visual C++, using a repair tool like Driver Talent X, or performing manual fixes—you can restore the required runtime and get your software running again.
To prevent similar DLL errors in the future, it's recommended to regularly update your system components and use tools like Driver Talent X to keep drivers and runtime libraries up to date for optimal stability.
