Vc2013redistx86 Visual C 2013 X86 120 40664 [UPDATED]

Understanding "vc2013redistx86": Why You Need It and How to Install It Safely

If you are seeing an error message referencing "vc2013redistx86", "Visual C++ 2013 x86", or a version number like 120.40664, it usually means you are trying to run a specific Windows application or game, but a required system component is missing or corrupted.

This post explains what this file is, why version numbers matter, and how to fix the error safely.

Is vc2013redistx86 Safe? Security Considerations

Yes, the official package from Microsoft Update Catalog or Microsoft Download Center is safe. However, beware of third-party “DLL download” sites that offer msvcr120.dll individually. These files may be:

Always verify the digital signature:

Since version 12.0.40664 includes security patches for CVE-2017-11824 and other RCE vulnerabilities, using old builds is a significant risk—especially in server environments.

Silent Deployment for System Administrators

For IT professionals managing dozens of workstations, use the following script to check for and deploy missing 12.0.40664:

@echo off
reg query "HKLM\SOFTWARE\Microsoft\VisualStudio\12.0\VC\Runtimes\x86" /v Bld | find "40664"
if %errorlevel% == 0 (
    echo Correct version already installed.
    exit /b 0
) else (
    echo Installing vc2013redistx86 12.0.40664...
    vcredist_x86.exe /quiet /norestart
)

For offline systems, download the redistributable from the Microsoft Update Catalog (search for KB3134231 or KB3179560).

Acceptance criteria

Would you like a runnable PowerShell script prototype or a C# project scaffold for this feature?

(related search suggestions provided)

"vc2013redistx86 visual c 2013 x86 120 40664" refers to a specific version of the Microsoft Visual C++ 2013 Redistributable. The "120" indicates it belongs to version 12.0

of the runtime libraries, and "40664" (specifically 12.0.40664.0) identifies a cumulative update

released by Microsoft to address security and stability issues in applications built with Visual Studio 2013. Microsoft Learn Key Components vc2013redistx86 : The installer package for the x86 (32-bit) version of the runtime. Visual C++ 2013

: The specific software suite used by developers to create the application you are likely trying to run. 120 / 40664 : Version indicators. Version 12.0.40664 vc2013redistx86 visual c 2013 x86 120 40664

was a critical update released to improve performance and security over the initial release. Why You See This

You usually encounter this identifier when an application fails to start and displays an error message like "The program can't start because msvcr120.dll is missing". This means the software requires these specific run-time components to function. How to Get It If you need to install or repair this version: Visit the official Microsoft Download Center for Visual C++ 2013 Redistributable Packages. Choose the

version (even on 64-bit Windows, many apps require the 32-bit runtime). and follow the prompts to install or repair the components. If you are looking for a

or documentation specifically citing this version, it is most commonly found in technical requirements installation guides

for enterprise software and older games that rely on the 2013 C++ architecture. Oracle Help Center If you'd like, I can: troubleshoot a specific error code Provide a list of other common redistributable versions Explain the difference between x86 and x64 installations Let me know how you'd like to proceed. AI responses may include mistakes. Learn more

Visual C++ Redistributable Packages for Visual Studio 2013 - Microsoft

Understanding VC2013Redist_x86: A Guide to Visual C++ 2013 Redistributable (12.0.40664)

If you’ve ever tried to launch a game or a professional software application only to be met with an error like "MSVCP120.dll is missing" or "The application failed to start because its side-by-side configuration is incorrect," you have encountered a missing runtime dependency.

Specifically, VC2013Redist_x86 (version 12.0.40664) is one of the most common requirements for Windows software developed using Microsoft Visual Studio 2013. Here is everything you need to know about what it is, why you need it, and how to fix errors related to it. What is VC2013Redist_x86?

The Visual C++ Redistributable Packages install runtime components that are required to run C++ applications built using Visual Studio.

VC2013: Refers to the version of the compiler (Visual Studio 2013).

Redist: Short for "Redistributable," meaning it is a package developers can distribute to end-users so their programs work on any machine. Understanding "vc2013redistx86": Why You Need It and How

x86: This indicates the 32-bit version. Even if you are on a 64-bit version of Windows, you often need the x86 version because many applications are still built as 32-bit processes.

12.0.40664: This is the specific build number. It represents an update to the original 2013 release, often containing security patches and stability improvements. Why Do You Need It?

Software isn't just one giant file. Developers use "libraries" (pre-written code) to handle basic tasks like displaying windows, managing memory, or processing graphics. Instead of including these massive libraries inside every single app, Windows uses shared files called DLLs (Dynamic Link Libraries).

If a program was built using the 2013 version of Visual C++, it looks for the 12.0 version of these libraries. If they aren't on your system, the program won't run. Common Errors Solved by this Package

Installing or repairing version 12.0.40664 typically resolves the following:

"The program can't start because MSVCR120.dll is missing from your computer." "The program can't start because MSVCP120.dll is missing." "Runtime Error! Program: C:..." "0xc000007b" error codes during application launch. How to Install VC2013Redist_x86 (12.0.40664) 1. Check your current versions

Before downloading anything, go to Control Panel > Programs and Features. Scroll down to "Microsoft Visual C++ 2013 Redistributable." If you see version 12.0.40664 listed but are still getting errors, you may need to Repair it. 2. Download from Official Sources

Always download these packages directly from Microsoft to avoid malware. Visit the official Microsoft Download Center.

Search for "Visual C++ Redistributable Packages for Visual Studio 2013." Select the vcredist_x86.exe file. 3. Installation Tip for 64-bit Users

If you are running a 64-bit (x64) version of Windows, it is highly recommended to install both the x86 and the x64 versions. Many 64-bit programs still utilize 32-bit sub-processes, and having both ensures maximum compatibility. Trouble Shooting: Still getting errors? If you have installed the package but the error persists:

Restart your computer: Many DLL registrations require a reboot to finalize.

Reinstall the Application: The software itself might be looking for the DLL in its own local folder rather than the System32 folder. Outdated (leading to crashes) Infected with malware Missing

Run Windows Update: Sometimes, a pending Windows update can block the proper registration of C++ libraries.

Summary: vc2013redistx86 is a vital "bridge" between your hardware and the software you want to use. Keeping version 12.0.40664 installed ensures that older, stable applications and games continue to run smoothly on modern versions of Windows.

Are you currently seeing a specific error message when trying to open a program?

The Visual C++ 2013 Redistributable (x86) version 12.0.40664 is a vital system component that allows 32-bit applications built with Visual Studio 2013 to run on your PC. 🛠️ Purpose Provides essential C++ runtime libraries. Enables software to execute pre-compiled code. Fixes "MSVCP120.dll is missing" errors. Ensures stability for older games and apps. 📥 When to Install New App Setup: Often required by legacy installers. Error Messages: Use this to fix DLL entry point errors. System Refreshes: Essential after a clean Windows install. ⚠️ Pro-Tips

Version Check: Version 12.0.40664 includes critical security patches.

Both Architectures: Install both x86 and x64 versions on 64-bit systems.

Repair Mode: If apps crash, run the installer and select "Repair."

If you tell me your operating system (Windows 10, 11, or older) or the specific error you're seeing, I can provide a direct download link or troubleshooting steps.


Error “Another version of this product is already installed”

This happens when a newer or older build exists and the installer cannot upgrade or downgrade.

Solution:

  1. Uninstall the existing Visual C++ 2013 x86 redistributable via Control Panel.
  2. Reboot.
  3. Install 12.0.40664 cleanly.

Method 1: Direct Download from Microsoft (Recommended)

  1. Search for “Visual C++ 2013 Redistributable Update 5” or use the direct link (from Microsoft’s official download center).
  2. Choose the x86 version (even on 64-bit Windows, you need this for 32-bit apps).
  3. Run vcredist_x86.exe. The file size is approximately 6–7 MB.
  4. Accept the license terms.
  5. If a newer or identical version is already installed, the installer will exit gracefully. Otherwise, proceed with installation.

For Developers

If your application requires exactly version 12.0.40664.0 (due to a known bug fix or dependency), you can:

Common Scenarios Where You Need vc2013redistx86

  1. Legacy Games: Many PC games from 2014–2018 (e.g., Tomb Raider, BioShock Infinite, The Witcher 2) explicitly require this runtime.
  2. CAD & Engineering Software: Older versions of AutoCAD, SolidWorks, and MATLAB components rely on VC++ 2013 x86.
  3. Cisco VPN Clients & Network Tools: Several enterprise networking tools use these libraries for configuration interfaces.
  4. Audio Production Plugins (VST): Many 32-bit audio plugins (VST2, VST3) depend on MSVCR120.dll.
  5. Outdated ERP Systems: Custom business software still compiled with VS2013 toolchain.
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