Visual C 2019 Redistributable Package
The Ultimate Guide to the Visual C++ 2019 Redistributable Package: What It Is, Why You Need It, and How to Fix It
Part 5: Visual C++ 2019 vs. 2015 vs. 2017 vs. 2022
This is the most confusing aspect for most users. Here is the truth table.
| Visual Studio Version | Runtime Version (DLL version) | Redistributable Compatibility | | :--- | :--- | :--- | | 2015 | 14.0 | Compatible with 2017, 2019, 2022 | | 2017 | 14.1 | Compatible with 2015, 2019, 2022 | | 2019 | 14.2 - 14.29 | Compatible with 2015, 2017, 2022 (up to version 14.29) | | 2022 | 14.3 - 14.4 | Compatible with 2015, 2017, 2019 |
The Golden Rule: The latest version of the Visual C++ Redistributable (currently the 2022 package) will run applications built with 2015, 2017, and 2019. However, because some legacy installers check for exact product codes, you may still need the 2019 package installed side-by-side with the 2022 package. visual c 2019 redistributable package
Do you need all three?
If you only install the 2022 Redistributable, your games will likely work. However, older corporate software or game launchers (like Epic Games or older Uplay versions) explicitly check for ProductCode_2019. If they don't see it, they will refuse to launch or attempt to reinstall it. Best practice: Install 2015, 2017, 2019, and 2022. They consume less than 50 MB of disk space combined.
The Application Still Doesn’t Work After Installation
Possible root causes:
- The app was built with Visual C++ 2015 but the 2019 redistributable is not backward compatible for that specific minor version? (Rare, but try installing the 2015 version as well).
- The app requires both x86 and x64 runtimes—you installed only one.
- The app uses .NET Framework in combination with C++ (install .NET 4.8+).
- Antivirus software is blocking runtime DLL registration. Temporarily disable it.
Part 3: How to Download and Install the Visual C++ 2019 Redistributable
Never download redistributables from third-party "DLL download" sites. These are vectors for malware. Always use Microsoft's official channels.
Why Not Just "One" Redistributable?
You often see multiple entries in your "Add or Remove Programs" list: The Ultimate Guide to the Visual C++ 2019
- Microsoft Visual C++ 2013 Redistributable
- Microsoft Visual C++ 2015-2022 Redistributable
- Microsoft Visual C++ 2019 Redistributable
Crucial Note: Different applications link to specific version ranges. An app built with VC++ 2019 might crash if it only finds a VC++ 2013 runtime. You generally need to keep all versions from 2005 onwards installed for maximum compatibility. Do not uninstall older versions to "save space."
Error 1: "VCRUNTIME140.dll Not Found" or "MSVCP140.dll Not Found"
Symptoms: Game or app crashes immediately on launch with a missing DLL dialog. The app was built with Visual C++ 2015
Causes:
- The Visual C++ 2019 Redistributable is not installed.
- Only the 32-bit version is installed, but your app requires 64-bit (or vice versa).
- A malware infection or accidental deletion of system files.
Solutions:
- Reinstall the redistributable: Download fresh copies of both x86 and x64 from Microsoft.
- Run System File Checker: Open Command Prompt as Admin and run
sfc /scannow. - Check Windows Updates: Sometimes Windows Update corrupts the VC++ runtime. Install the latest Cumulative Update.