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How to Fix msvcr90.dll Missing Error on Windows 11: Complete Steps to Solve the Issue

If you’ve recently encountered the msvcr90.dll missing error on your Windows 11 PC, you’re not alone. This error can prevent certain programs from running properly. Fortunately, it’s usually easy to fix with some straightforward steps.

The msvcr90.dll file is part of the Microsoft Visual C++ 2008 Redistributable package. When it goes missing or gets corrupted, programs relying on it can fail to launch. Understanding how to restore this file will help you resolve the issue quickly.

This guide will walk you through simple, clear steps to get rid of the error and get your apps working again. No technical jargon—just plain instructions anyone can follow.

Let’s get started with some quick checks before moving to the actual fixes.

Quick Note: What to Check Before Fixing

  • Check the Recycle Bin: Sometimes the msvcr90.dll file is accidentally deleted. Open your Recycle Bin and see if it’s there. If yes, restore it.
  • Restart Your PC: A simple restart can fix temporary glitches causing the error.
  • Note Your Software: Identify which program throws the error. This helps in case you need to reinstall that specific app later.
  • Avoid Downloading DLLs from Random Websites: Direct DLL downloads can be unsafe and cause more problems.

Step 1: Run Windows System File Checker (SFC)

The System File Checker tool scans your system for missing or corrupted Windows files and repairs them. Since msvcr90.dll is a system-related file, this can fix the issue.

  1. Press Windows + S and type cmd.
  2. Right-click on Command Prompt and select Run as administrator.
  3. In the black command window, type sfc /scannow and press Enter.
  4. Wait patiently while Windows scans and repairs files. This may take several minutes.
  5. Once complete, restart your computer and check if the error persists.

This step is important because it repairs core Windows files without needing manual intervention.

Step 2: Reinstall Microsoft Visual C++ 2008 Redistributable Package

The missing msvcr90.dll is part of the Visual C++ 2008 Redistributable. Reinstalling it refreshes the required files.

  1. Open your web browser and go to the official Microsoft download page for Microsoft Visual C++ Redistributable Packages.
  2. Download the version for Visual C++ 2008 (usually labeled as vcredist_x86.exe for 32-bit or vcredist_x64.exe for 64-bit systems).
  3. Run the downloaded installer and follow the on-screen instructions.
  4. After installation, restart your computer.
  5. Try launching the program that previously gave the error.

This ensures you have a clean, up-to-date version of the redistributable package installed.

Step 3: Update Windows 11

Windows updates often include important fixes and updated system files. Keeping your system updated can resolve compatibility issues.

  1. Click on the Start button and select Settings.
  2. Go to Windows Update on the left sidebar.
  3. Click Check for updates and install any available updates.
  4. Restart your PC if prompted.

Updating Windows helps replace missing or outdated DLL files automatically.

Step 4: Reinstall the Problematic Application

If the error appears when opening a specific program, reinstalling that program can fix corrupted or missing DLL dependencies.

  1. Press Windows + I to open Settings.
  2. Go to Apps > Installed apps.
  3. Find the app causing the error, click the three dots next to it, and select Uninstall.
  4. Once uninstalled, download the latest version of the app from its official website.
  5. Install the app and restart your PC.
  6. Try running the app again.

This helps if the app’s installation was incomplete or corrupted.

Alternative Method: Use Dependency Walker to Identify DLL Issues

If you want to dig deeper, you can use a tool called Dependency Walker. It shows all DLL files an app depends on and flags missing ones.

  • Download Dependency Walker from its official site.
  • Open the problematic program’s executable (.exe) file with Dependency Walker.
  • Look for any missing DLLs, including msvcr90.dll.
  • This can confirm whether the issue is limited to that DLL or multiple files.

This method is more advanced and useful for troubleshooting complex software errors.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What is the msvcr90.dll file?

It’s a Dynamic Link Library file that belongs to the Microsoft Visual C++ 2008 Redistributable package. Many Windows programs rely on it to run properly.

Can I just download msvcr90.dll from the internet?

It’s not recommended. Downloading DLLs from random sites can be unsafe and might introduce malware. Always use official Microsoft sources or reinstall redistributables.

Why does this error appear suddenly?

The DLL file might get deleted accidentally, corrupted by malware, or removed during an incomplete software installation or update.

Will reinstalling the redistributable package affect other programs?

No, reinstalling the Visual C++ redistributable just refreshes the shared files used by many apps. It’s safe and often solves multiple related errors.

Is this error specific to Windows 11?

No, the msvcr90.dll missing error can happen on any Windows version, but this guide focuses on Windows 11 for clarity.

When Nothing Works

If you’ve followed all the steps and still see the error, here are some final options:

  • Run a Full Malware Scan: Use Windows Defender or a trusted antivirus to check for infections that may corrupt system files.
  • Perform a System Restore: Roll back your PC to a point before the error appeared. Search for Create a restore point in Windows and follow the prompts.
  • Contact Software Support: Reach out to the developer of the problematic app for specialized help.
  • Use Microsoft Support: Visit the official Microsoft support website for more advanced troubleshooting.

Conclusion

The msvcr90.dll missing error on Windows 11 is a common but fixable problem. Start with simple checks like looking in the Recycle Bin and restarting your PC. Running the System File Checker and reinstalling the Visual C++ 2008 Redistributable usually solve the issue quickly.

Keeping Windows updated and reinstalling affected apps can prevent future errors. Avoid downloading DLL files from unofficial sources to keep your system secure.

By following these steps carefully, you should be able to restore the missing msvcr90.dll file and get your programs running smoothly again.

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