What Is msvcr120.dll?

Everything You Need to Know About MSVCR120.dll

The MSVCR120.dll is a file you might not think about until one day, you’re trying to open an application or game, and you’re greeted with an error message that it’s missing from your computer. This scenario is more common than you might expect, and it could lead to quite a bit of frustration and confusion. Let’s demystify the MSVCR120.dll file, its purpose, its issues, and how to fix related problems.

The MSVCR120.dll is a Dynamic Link Library (DLL) file, part of the Visual C++ Redistributable Packages for Visual Studio 2013 provided by Microsoft. These packages are a collection of DLL files and associated resources that programs developed with Visual C++ require to run.

The “120” in the name indicates that it corresponds with the Visual C++ 2013 version, which is version 12.0 of the compiler. Programs that depend on this specific version of the runtime library will look for this exact file.

Many applications, particularly games and software requiring high-performance graphics, are built using Microsoft’s Visual C++ development environment and require the associated DLL files to execute. If the MSVCR120.dll file becomes corrupted, deleted, or misplaced, you might not be able to run the application properly.

Is MSVCR120.dll Safe?

Discussions often arise around the safety of DLL files. In general, the MSVCR120.dll is a legitimate and safe file from Microsoft. However, it’s essential to ensure that it comes from a trusted source. Authentic copies of the MSVCR120.dll file should not harm your computer.

Could MSVCR120.dll Be a Virus or Malware?

False positives can occur when anti-virus software mistakes a safe file for a malicious one. However, sometimes real threats disguise themselves with names similar to legitimate DLL files. It’s always crucial to scan your system for viruses if you’re unsure about a file’s origin.

Common Issues with MSVCR120.dll

The notorious “msvcr120.dll is missing from your computer” error is a stumbling block lots of users encounter. It suggests that the required version of the Microsoft C Runtime Library is not available or the system cannot locate it. This glitch can stem from various root causes which include:

– Faulty application installation
– Accidental deletion of the DLL file
– Corruption due to malware or virus
– Conflicts or compatibility issues after an update
– A disrupted Windows registry

How to Fix MSVCR120.dll Issues

Before you start downloading DLL files from the internet, consider this: there are safer and more efficient ways to restore the missing MSVCR120.dll file. Here is a structured approach to solving related issues:

Method 1: Install the Visual C++ Redistributable Package

Reintroducing the Visual C++ Redistributable package is a common and effective fix.

1. Visit the official Microsoft website to download the latest supported Visual C++ Redistributable package.
2. Choose the correct version for your system (32-bit or 64-bit). If you’re uncertain, you can check your system type through the System Information or by typing “systeminfo” in the Command Prompt.
3. Run the downloaded executable to install the package, then restart your computer.

Method 2: Run the System File Checker

Use the System File Checker tool to repair missing or corrupted system files.

1. Open the Command Prompt as an administrator by right-clicking the Start button and selecting Command Prompt (Admin).
2. Type `SFC /scannow` and hit Enter. This will scan your system for missing or corrupted files and replace them.
3. Once completed, restart your computer.

Method 3: Reinstall the Affected Application

Sometimes, simply reinstalling the application that can’t find the MSVCR120.dll file solves the issue:
1. Uninstall the application through the Control Panel.
2. Restart your computer.
3. Reinstall the application from its original installation media or download.

Method 4: Virus Scan

Run a full system virus scan to ensure that no malware is posing as the MSVCR120.dll file or that your DLL file has not become corrupted by malicious software.

Method 5: Consult the Community

If you’ve exhausted the above methods and the problem persists, seeking help from community forums can be advantageous. For issues specific to an application like DaVinci Resolve, you can visit community discussion forums where users share similar experiences and solutions.

Always remember to fetch the MSVCR120.dll from a reputable source when needed and avoid downloading DLLs from disapproved sites to prevent potential security risks.

With a combination of the right knowledge and resources, resolving issues associated with MSVCR120.dll can be straightforward. Following these steps should get your applications or games up and running in no time, and you’ll be back to work or play without any more ‘missing DLL’ interruptions.