Reparar dinput.dll y vcomp120.dll missing errors en Windows 10 y 11 (2025)

Summary

Seeing a dinput.dll missing Windows 10 or vcomp120.dll error fix message can instantly ruin your gaming or productivity session. Before you panic or consider risky downloads, know that these common repair DLL errors Windows 11 and Windows 10 issues often have simple, safe solutions. This guide will walk you through the most effective methods, starting with reinstalling software and using built-in Windows tools like SFC and DISM, to get you back on track quickly and securely. Let’s fix this for good.

Introduction to dinput.dll and vcomp120.dll missing errors

That dreaded moment arrives without warning: you double-click your favorite game or a crucial application, only to be met with a cryptic error message about a missing dinput.dll missing Windows 10 or a vcomp120.dll error fix. Your screen freezes, your plans are interrupted, and frustration sets in. What are these mysterious files, and why has your trusted Windows system suddenly decided they’re gone?

In simple terms, DLLs (Dynamic Link Libraries) are shared code packages that multiple programs can use to perform common functions. Think of them as a shared toolbox that different applications dip into, preventing software developers from having to reinvent the wheel for every single program.
* dinput.dll: This file is a core component of Microsoft’s DirectInput API, which handles input from gaming devices like joysticks, gamepads, and steering wheels. If this file is missing or corrupted, your games might fail to launch or not recognize your controller.
* vcomp120.dll: This library is part of the Microsoft Visual C++ Redistributable package, specifically for parallel computing (hence the ‘vcomp’). Many modern games and demanding applications, especially those built with Visual Studio 2013, rely on it to efficiently use your computer’s processor cores. Its absence often causes crashes right at startup.

These errors rarely mean the files have been physically deleted. More commonly, the issue stems from a corrupted installation of the software that uses them, a problematic Windows update that disrupted system files, or even malware that damaged or replaced the original DLLs. The immediate symptom is clear—an application crash—but the root cause can be elusive. Understanding this distinction is the first step toward a safe and effective repair DLL errors Windows 11 and Windows 10.

Crucially, your first instinct might be to search for a “vcomp120.dll download Windows 10 2025” site. Resist this urge! Downloading DLLs from unofficial websites is a significant security risk, often leading to malware infections or further system instability.

Now that we know what we’re dealing with, let’s prepare your system for a safe recovery process.

Common symptoms and causes of DLL errors

The sudden appearance of a DLL error message is jarring, but the specific symptoms you experience can offer valuable clues about the underlying cause. Typically, a missing dinput.dll missing Windows 10 error will manifest as an application—most often a game—failing to start altogether. You might see a pop-up window stating, “The program can’t start because dinput.dll is missing from your computer.” In some cases, the game might launch but then fail to recognize your controller inputs, rendering your joystick or gamepad useless. On the other hand, a vcomp120.dll error fix scenario usually results in an immediate crash at startup, especially with software that requires significant parallel processing power.

These issues don’t appear out of the blue. Common triggers include:
* A faulty software installation or update: The most frequent culprit. A recent game or app installation might have been incomplete or corrupted, leaving its associated DLL files in an invalid state.
* Conflicting software: Installing a new program can sometimes overwrite or interfere with an existing, shared DLL file, breaking the applications that depended on the previous version.
* A problematic Windows update: While rare, a system update can occasionally introduce conflicts that corrupt system files or their registrations.
* Malware activity: Viruses or other malicious software may intentionally damage or replace legitimate DLL files to compromise your system.

It’s important to note that these Windows DLL error symptoms are almost never a sign of failing hardware. Your hard drive or RAM is likely fine; the problem is almost always software-related, which is good news for repairability.

Recognizing these patterns helps you avoid unnecessary panic and risky actions, like downloading DLLs from dubious websites. By understanding the symptoms, you’re already on the path to a logical and safe solution. This awareness sets the stage for the crucial preparatory steps we’ll cover next, ensuring a smooth and secure repair process.

Importance of fixing DLL issues for system stability

While a single dinput.dll missing Windows 10 error might seem like a minor nuisance affecting just one game, ignoring it can be a gateway to broader system instability. DLLs are not isolated components; they are integral parts of the Windows ecosystem. When one crucial file is missing or corrupted, it can create a domino effect. The initial error is a clear symptom of a breakdown in the shared library system that Windows and your applications rely on for smooth operation. This instability can manifest in ways beyond a single application crash, potentially leading to unpredictable system behavior, slower performance, or even more frequent crashes in other, seemingly unrelated, programs.

Addressing a DLL error promptly is a proactive measure for overall system health. It’s akin to fixing a small leak in a pipe before it causes significant water damage to your entire house.

The importance of a proper repair DLL errors Windows 11 process extends beyond immediate functionality. Attempting a quick fix, such as downloading a replacement DLL from an unofficial source, often introduces incompatible file versions or, worse, malware. This can mask the original problem while creating new, more severe security vulnerabilities and system conflicts. A correct repair, which we will detail in the following sections, ensures that the root cause—be it a corrupted software installation or a damaged system file—is genuinely resolved. This restores not only the missing file but also the integrity of your system’s framework, preventing the issue from recurring and safeguarding your data and privacy.

By taking systematic steps to fix these errors, you are investing in your computer’s long-term reliability and performance. With the risks of inaction and improper fixes now clear, the next logical step is to prepare your system for a safe and effective recovery.

Preparations before fixing DLL errors

Before diving into the technical fixes, a small amount of preparation is essential. Rushing to repair a dinput.dll missing Windows 10 error without proper safeguards can sometimes lead to more significant problems. The goal here is to create a safety net, ensuring that your attempt to solve the issue doesn’t accidentally create a new one. This careful approach is the hallmark of an effective repair DLL errors Windows 11 strategy.

Your first and most critical step is to back up your system. While the fixes we’ll cover are generally safe, it’s always wise to prepare for the unexpected. If you have a recent system restore point, you’re already in a good position. To create a new one, simply type “Create a restore point” in the Windows search bar, select your main drive (usually C:), and click “Create.” Give it a descriptive name like “Pre-DLL fix.” For an extra layer of security, consider backing up your most important personal files—documents, photos, and saves—to an external drive or cloud service. This entire process takes only a few minutes but provides immense peace of mind.

Next, pinpoint the exact source of the error. When did the problem first appear? Was it immediately after installing a new game, a Windows update, or another piece of software? This context is a powerful clue. Furthermore, note the exact wording of the error message. Does it specify which application failed? Is the error for dinput.dll or vcomp120.dll? Jotting this information down helps you target the solution more accurately.

A quick but vital check: Run a scan with your installed antivirus or Windows Security. This can rule out malware as the root cause, allowing you to confidently proceed with the software-based repairs outlined next.

With your system backed up and the error source identified, you are now perfectly prepared to apply the targeted fixes that follow.

Backing up your system and data

Taking a few minutes to create a safety net is the most underrated yet critical step in any repair DLL errors Windows 11 or Windows 10 process. It transforms a potentially nerve-wracking repair into a controlled troubleshooting session. As established, these errors are typically software-related, but the solutions involve tools that interact with core system files. A backup ensures that an unlikely misstep doesn’t compound the original problem, allowing you to proceed with confidence.

The most efficient first action is to create a System Restore point. This feature takes a snapshot of your system files, registry, and installed programs, allowing you to revert your computer’s state to this exact moment if anything goes wrong. To do this:

1. Type “Create a restore point” in the Windows search bar and open the result.
2. In the System Properties window, ensure protection is “On” for your main drive (C:), then click the “Create…” button.
3. Name it descriptively, such as “Before DLL Repair,” and let Windows complete the process.

For absolute data security, complement this with a manual backup of your irreplaceable personal files—documents, photos, and saved games—to an external hard drive or cloud storage. This two-pronged approach covers all bases: the System Restore point protects your operating system, while the manual backup safeguards your data.

Think of it this way: A System Restore is like an undo button for your PC’s software, while a file backup is a photocopy of your most important papers. You hope you never need either, but having them is invaluable.

With this crucial safety net in place, you can focus entirely on identifying the specific error source without the fear of causing irreversible damage.

Identifying the specific error source

Now that your system is safely backed up, it’s time to play digital detective. Pinpointing the exact trigger for the dinput.dll missing Windows 10 or vcomp120.dll error fix message is a powerful step that allows you to apply the most targeted and effective solution, saving you time and effort. This isn’t about random troubleshooting; it’s about connecting the dots between the error and a specific event on your system.

Start by analyzing the timing. When did the error first appear? Was it immediately after you installed a new game or application? Perhaps it coincided with a major Windows update. This correlation is your strongest clue. For instance, if a game crashes with a vcomp120.dll error right after installation, the problem almost certainly lies with that game’s installation files or its required Visual C++ redistributable package. Conversely, if a piece of software that worked perfectly for months suddenly starts complaining about a missing DLL, a recent Windows update is a more likely suspect.

Next, scrutinize the error message itself. Windows is usually quite explicit. Note down the exact name of the DLL file and, crucially, the full path of the application that failed to launch. This information is invaluable. Is the error occurring with a specific, recently installed program, or is it affecting multiple applications? The scope of the problem helps narrow down the cause.

A quick but highly effective diagnostic step is to run a clean boot. By using the System Configuration tool (msconfig) to disable all non-Microsoft startup items and services, you can determine if background software is causing a conflict. If the error disappears in a clean boot state, you know a third-party program is the culprit.

This investigative work transforms a vague error into a solvable puzzle. By identifying the source, you can confidently choose the right repair method, which we will begin to explore in the next section.

Clue	Likely Cause	Points to Solution
Error after new software install	Corrupted or incomplete installation of that software.	Reinstall the affected application.
Error after Windows Update	System file conflict or corruption.	Use System File Checker (SFC) or DISM.
Error affects multiple programs	Damaged or missing shared system file.	Run SFC scannow fix DLL or repair Visual C++ redistributable.
Error in one specific program	Isolated issue with that program’s files.	Reinstall or update that specific software.

Armed with this specific information about your error’s origin, you are perfectly prepared to apply the targeted fixes, starting with the most straightforward one: reinstalling the affected software.

Method 1: Reinstall or update affected software

The most logical and often the fastest way to resolve a missing DLL error is to address the software that’s crying out for it. If you’ve identified that the dinput.dll missing Windows 10 error is tied to a specific game, or the vcomp120.dll error fix is needed for a particular application, reinstalling that program should be your first port of call. This process does more than just replace the main executable; it reinstalls all the associated files, including the very DLLs that have gone missing or become corrupted. It’s a clean slate for that specific piece of software, effectively undoing any glitches that occurred during its initial installation.

Think of it like this: if a single book in a library is missing a crucial chapter, you don’t rebuild the entire library—you simply get a new, complete copy of that specific book. Reinstalling the affected software follows the same efficient principle, directly targeting the problem’s origin.

Pro Tip: Before reinstalling, try a simple repair first. Head to Settings > Apps > Apps & features, find the problematic application, click on it, and select “Modify” or “Repair” if available. This lighter touch can sometimes resolve file issues without a full reinstall.

If a simple reinstall doesn’t do the trick, the next step is to ensure you’re not dealing with a version conflict. Software developers frequently release updates that include updated versions of required libraries. An outdated application might be searching for an older variant of a DLL that has since been updated by another program or a Windows update. Checking for and installing the latest version of the software from the official developer’s website can bridge this compatibility gap. This approach is particularly relevant for solving issues related to the Visual C++ redistributables, as modern game patches often bundle the necessary versions.

This method’s beauty lies in its simplicity and safety, directly addressing the most common cause of these errors without requiring you to delve into system files manually. It’s a targeted strike that frequently delivers immediate results. Once you’ve exhausted this straightforward option, we can move on to more comprehensive system-wide tools.

Steps to reinstall applications using the DLLs

Reinstalling an application is a straightforward process, but doing it correctly is key to ensuring the dinput.dll missing Windows 10 or other DLL error is truly resolved. A haphazard uninstall can leave behind registry entries and configuration files that perpetuate the problem. The goal is a clean refresh.

Here’s a step-by-step guide to properly reinstall an application:

1. Uninstall Completely: Navigate to Settings > Apps > Apps & features. Locate the problematic application, click the three-dot menu, and select “Uninstall.” Follow the on-screen prompts. For a more thorough removal, especially with complex software like games, consider using a dedicated uninstaller tool that cleans residual files and registry entries.
2. Restart Your Computer: This is a critical yet often skipped step. A restart clears any temporary files and ensures the application’s processes are fully terminated, preventing conflicts during the new installation.
3. Download a Fresh Copy: Instead of using an old installer, always download the latest version of the software directly from the official developer’s website or a trusted platform like Steam or the Epic Games Store. This guarantees you get the most current and stable files, including any patched DLLs.
4. Install as Administrator: Right-click the installer file and select “Run as administrator.” This grants the installation process the necessary permissions to write files to protected system directories and make registry changes, preventing permission-related errors.
5. Restart Again: After the installation is complete, perform one final restart. This allows Windows to finalize the installation, register the new DLLs correctly, and ensure everything is loaded properly.

A quick note on dependencies: Many games and applications that throw a vcomp120.dll error rely on the Microsoft Visual C++ Redistributable package. When you reinstall the main application, the installer often attempts to install this prerequisite automatically. Pay attention to any setup prompts asking to install these components and allow them to proceed.

This methodical reinstallation process directly replaces the corrupted or missing application-specific files, which is often the simplest and most effective repair DLL errors Windows 11 strategy. If the error persists even after a clean reinstall, the issue likely lies deeper within Windows system files, which we will address with more powerful tools next.

Updating software to the latest versions

Sometimes, a simple reinstall isn’t enough. The issue might not be a corrupted file but a fundamental incompatibility. Your software could be stubbornly looking for an older version of a DLL that has been updated or replaced elsewhere on your system. This is where updating to the latest version becomes a powerful repair DLL errors Windows 11 and Windows 10 strategy. Developers continuously release patches that not only add features but also resolve compatibility issues, often bundling the correct, updated versions of essential libraries like the Visual C++ redistributables right into the installer.

The process begins by visiting the official website of the game or application developer. Avoid using third-party update utilities for this specific task, as they may not always fetch the correct files. Look for a “Support,” “Downloads,” or “Patches” section. Here’s how to approach it effectively:

• Check the version number: Compare the version you have installed (visible in Settings > Apps > Apps & features) with the version available online.
• Look for a cumulative patch: Large updates often include all previous fixes, making them more effective than installing several small patches sequentially.
• Review the changelog: Skim the release notes for keywords like “stability improvements,” “bug fixes,” or specific mentions of “DLL” or “Visual C++” updates. This confirms you’re addressing the root of the problem.

For persistent vcomp120.dll errors, a direct update of the Visual C++ Redistributable is often the silver bullet. You can safely download the latest version of the vcredist package directly from Microsoft’s official website. Ensure you select the correct architecture (x86 for 32-bit applications, x64 for 64-bit) as specified by the erroring program.

This proactive approach to updating doesn’t just fix the immediate DLL error; it enhances the overall stability and security of the software you rely on. By ensuring you have the latest code from the developer, you align your system with the environment the software was tested for, effectively closing compatibility gaps that lead to crashes. If updating the specific application doesn’t resolve the issue, the problem likely lies within Windows’ own system files, which we’ll tackle with built-in tools next.

Method 2: Run System File Checker (SFC) and DISM

When reinstalling or updating the specific application doesn’t resolve the dinput.dll missing Windows 10 error, the issue often lies deeper within the operating system’s core files. This is where Windows’ built-in repair utilities, the System File Checker (SFC) and the Deployment Image Servicing and Management (DISM) tool, become your most powerful allies. Think of them as your PC’s internal maintenance crew; SFC scans and repairs the individual system files you interact with daily, while DISM ensures the underlying Windows component store—the source from which SFC draws its repairs—is healthy itself. Running these tools is a critical step in a comprehensive repair DLL errors Windows 11 and Windows 10 strategy.

The process is straightforward but must be done with precision. Start by launching Command Prompt or PowerShell as an administrator (right-click the Start menu icon and select it). Then, execute the commands in sequence:

1. Run the System File Checker (SFC): Type sfc /scannow and press Enter. This will initiate a thorough scan that can take some time. SFC will automatically replace any corrupted or missing protected system files, including crucial DLLs, with a cached copy from the component store.
2. If SFC fails, use DISM first: Occasionally, if the component store is damaged, SFC cannot complete its repairs. In this case, you must fix the source first. Run the command DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /RestoreHealth. This command connects to Windows Update to download healthy replacements for any corrupted files in the component store. After DISM completes successfully, you must run sfc /scannow again to finalize the repairs.

Important: The DISM command requires a stable internet connection to fetch repair files. If you are offline or have connection issues, you can point DISM to a Windows installation ISO file as an alternative repair source using a more advanced syntax.

This one-two punch of SFC scannow fix DLL and DISM addresses system-wide corruption that isolated software reinstalls cannot touch. It’s a safe, official method that directly rectifies the file integrity issues causing your errors, moving you significantly closer to a stable system.

Once these foundational system repairs are complete, we can explore other targeted solutions to ensure the error is fully resolved.

Conclusion

By following the methods outlined here, from a simple software reinstall to utilizing the SFC scannow fix DLL and DISM tools, you can effectively resolve these disruptive errors and restore system stability. A practical next step is to ensure your critical applications are fully updated, as this often addresses underlying incompatibilities. This guide provides a secure path to repair DLL errors Windows 11 and Windows 10, helping you avoid risky downloads and get back to your tasks with confidence.