Summary
That dreaded msvcp120.dll missing error can bring your PC to a halt, often appearing after a Windows update or when launching essential software. If you’re facing frustrating crashes or error messages, you’re not alone—this common DLL issue has a straightforward solution. Our 2025 guide provides a clear, step-by-step walkthrough to diagnose the root cause and implement a permanent fix for msvcp120.dll not found, whether you’re on Windows 10 or 11. Follow our trusted methods to get your system running smoothly again.
Método 4: Escanear en busca de malware
When all conventional fixes fail, it’s time to consider a more sinister possibility: the msvcp120.dll missing error might not be an accident but an act of sabotage. Malicious software, or malware, is a formidable culprit that can deliberately delete, corrupt, or mimic critical system files like msvcp120.dll to destabilize your system or hide its own activities. This is why a thorough malware scan is an essential, non-negotiable step in your troubleshooting arsenal, especially if the error appeared unexpectedly without any recent software changes or updates.
Your first line of defense should be a full scan with Windows Security (formerly Windows Defender), which is robust and integrated directly into your OS. However, for a deep-seated infection, its real-time protection might not be enough. You need an offline scan that can root out malware that actively hides during normal operation.
- Run an Offline Scan with Windows Security: Search for “Virus & threat protection” in the Start menu. Under “Current threats,” click “Scan options” and select “Microsoft Defender Offline scan.” Click “Scan now.” This will restart your PC and perform a deep scan before Windows loads, giving it the best chance to catch resilient threats.
- Use a Reputable Third-Party Scanner: If you have another trusted antivirus program installed, run a full system scan. If you don’t, consider using a dedicated malware removal tool like Malwarebytes. These tools often have free versions that can perform a powerful supplementary scan, detecting threats that other software might miss.
Security Imperative: A positive malware detection is a serious event. Follow your security software’s recommendations for quarantine or removal. After cleaning the infection, you will likely need to return to Method 2 (reinstalling the Visual C++ Redistributable) to replace the damaged or missing DLL file with a clean, official version.
It’s a sobering thought, but a corrupted file can sometimes be the symptom of a compromised system. Ruling out this threat not only brings you closer to solving the DLL error but also restores the overall health and security of your computer. With the system now clean and stable, we can move to the final summary and outline how to prevent such issues from recurring.
Conclusión: Resumen y pasos preventivos
By systematically working through the methods outlined—from repairing core system files with SFC and DISM, reinstalling the official Visual C++ package, updating drivers and Windows, to conducting a thorough malware scan—you have tackled the msvcp120.dll missing error from every conceivable angle. This multi-pronged approach is designed not just to apply a quick patch but to identify and resolve the root cause, whether it’s simple file corruption, a broken software dependency, or a more serious security threat. The journey from that initial, frustrating error message to a stable system reinforces a critical lesson: the safest and most effective solutions rely on official tools and sources, not risky downloads from the web.
To minimize the chances of encountering similar issues in the future, adopting a few proactive habits can make a world of difference. Consistency is key to maintaining a healthy PC environment.
Preventive Checklist:
* Regular System Maintenance: Schedule monthly scans with both SFC/DISM and your security software to catch file corruption or threats early.
* Manage Updates Wisely: Enable automatic updates for Windows and critical drivers, but consider pausing non-essential updates for a week or two after a major Windows feature release to avoid being an early adopter of potential bugs.
* Practice Safe Installation/Uninstallation: Always use official installers and the built-in “Apps & features” settings to remove programs, which helps prevent the accidental deletion of shared components.
Adhering to these practices builds a resilient computing foundation, significantly reducing the likelihood of disruptive DLL errors. While the permanent fix for msvcp120.dll not found is now within your grasp, the principles of systematic troubleshooting and proactive maintenance are the true takeaways, empowering you to handle future system challenges with confidence.
Conclusion
By systematically following the methods in this guide, from using the SFC scannow tool to reinstalling the correct Visual C++ runtime, you can effectively resolve the msvcp120.dll missing error and restore your system’s stability. For a lasting solution, remember to run a full system scan with your security software to rule out any potential malware interference, as detailed in our troubleshooting steps. Your next immediate action should be to start with the built-in Windows file checker before moving on to more targeted fixes.
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