How to Resolve the ‘API-Ms-Win-Crt-Runtime-l1-1-0.dll Missing’ Error on Windows

How to Resolve the ‘API-Ms-Win-Crt-Runtime-l1-1-0.dll Missing’ Error on Windows

The “API-Ms-Win-Crt-Runtime-l1-1-0.dll is missing” error is a common issue faced by Windows users. It typically appears when you try to launch a program, especially software that relies on the Microsoft Visual C++ Redistributable. This error can be frustrating because it prevents applications like Adobe programs, Skype, and even some games from starting up.

In this guide, we’ll explain what causes this error and provide step-by-step solutions to fix it.

What Causes the “API-Ms-Win-Crt-Runtime-l1-1-0.dll Missing” Error?

The error occurs when a required Dynamic Link Library (DLL) file is not found by the program. The API-Ms-Win-Crt-Runtime-l1-1-0.dll file is part of the Microsoft Visual C++ Redistributable, which many applications use to run correctly. If this file is missing, outdated, or corrupted, you’ll encounter this error.

Some common causes include:

1. Corrupted or Missing Visual C++ Redistributable: If the package is damaged, certain DLL files may not be accessible.
2. Incomplete Installation: Programs may not install properly if the required files are missing.
3. Outdated Windows: Running an outdated version of Windows can lead to compatibility issues.
4. Virus or Malware: Malware may corrupt or delete essential system files.

Fix 1: Install the Microsoft Visual C++ Redistributable

The first and most effective solution is to reinstall the Microsoft Visual C++ Redistributable. Doing so will restore the missing API-Ms-Win-Crt-Runtime-l1-1-0.dll file.

Steps to Install Microsoft Visual C++ Redistributable:

1. Download the Visual C++ Redistributable:
   • Visit the Microsoft website and download the Visual C++ Redistributable package (both x86 and x64 versions).
2. Run the Installer:
   • Open the downloaded file and follow the on-screen instructions to complete the installation.
3. Restart Your Computer:
   • Restart your computer after the installation completes to apply the changes.
4. Launch the Program:
   • Try opening the application that previously showed the error to see if it has been resolved.

Fix 2: Update Windows

Updating your Windows operating system ensures you have the latest components and fixes, which may resolve the API-Ms-Win-Crt-Runtime-l1-1-0.dll error.

Steps to Update Windows:

1. Open Windows Update:
   • Press Windows + I to open Settings and go to Update & Security.
2. Check for Updates:
   • Click on Check for updates. Windows will search for available updates and install them.
3. Restart Your PC:
   • After the updates are installed, restart your computer and check if the error persists.

Fix 3: Repair the Visual C++ Redistributable Package

If reinstalling doesn’t work, you can try repairing the Visual C++ Redistributable package. This method can restore the missing DLL file without a full reinstall.

Steps to Repair Visual C++ Redistributable:

1. Open Control Panel:
   • Press Windows + R, type control, and hit Enter.
2. Go to Programs and Features:
   • Click Programs > Programs and Features.
   
3. Select the Redistributable:
   • Find Microsoft Visual C++ Redistributable in the list, right-click on it, and select Change.

   

4. Repair the Installation:
   • Click Repair and follow the on-screen instructions. After the repair, restart your computer.

Fix 4: Use the System File Checker (SFC)

The System File Checker (SFC) tool scans your system for corrupted files and automatically replaces them, including missing DLL files.

Steps to Run SFC:

1. Open Command Prompt as Administrator:
   • Press Windows + X and select Command Prompt (Admin) or Windows PowerShell (Admin).
2. Run the SFC Command:
   • Type the following command and press Enter:
     bash

     sfc /scannow

   • Wait for the scan to complete. It will detect and repair any corrupted files it finds.
3. Restart Your Computer:
   • After the scan finishes, restart your PC and check if the problem is fixed.

Fix 5: Manually Download and Replace the Missing DLL

If none of the above solutions work, you can manually download the missing API-Ms-Win-Crt-Runtime-l1-1-0.dll file and place it in the correct directory.

Steps to Download and Replace DLL:

1. Find a Trusted Source:
   • Download the API-Ms-Win-Crt-Runtime-l1-1-0.dll file from a reputable website. Be cautious and avoid malicious downloads.
2. Copy the File:
   • Move the DLL file to the following location:
     • C:\Windows\System32 (for 32-bit systems)
     • C:\Windows\SysWOW64 (for 64-bit systems)
3. register the DLL File:
   • Open Command Prompt (Admin) and type the following command:
     css

     regsvr32 API-Ms-Win-Crt-Runtime-l1-1-0.dll

   • Press Enter to register the file.
4. Restart Your PC:
   • Restart your computer and see if the issue is resolved.

Conclusion

The “API-Ms-Win-Crt-Runtime-l1-1-0.dll Missing” error can prevent your applications from launching, but following the solutions in this guide can help resolve it. Whether you reinstall the Visual C++ Redistributable, update your system, or manually replace the missing DLL, these steps should restore your computer’s functionality.

If the problem persists after trying these fixes, consider reaching out to Microsoft support or reinstalling the affected software to ensure all dependencies are correctly installed.