Microsoft Visual C++ 2017 Redistributable (x64)

Microsoft Visual C++ 2017 Redistributable (x64)

Overview

This software is a runtime library package that allows Windows to run applications developed using Microsoft Visual Studio 2017 with the C++ language. It provides the necessary compiled code (DLLs) that programs need to execute standard functions without requiring the user to have the full development environment installed. It serves as a middleman between the application's code and the Windows operating system.

Key Features

• Essential Runtime Libraries: Provides core files such as vcruntime140.dll and msvcp140.dll which are necessary for memory management, math functions, and hardware communication.
• C++ Standard Library Support: Includes the implementation of the Standard C++ Library used by modern software for data structures and algorithms.
• Unified Runtime Architecture: Since version 2017, Microsoft moved to a binary-compatible model. This means the 2017 redistributable can often be replaced by or combined with the 2015-2022 unified package.

Who Should Use This Software?

• 64-bit Application Users: Individuals running modern 64-bit games or professional software (like video editors or CAD tools) that were compiled using the Visual Studio 2017 toolset.
• Troubleshooters: Users encountering the "The program can't start because VCRUNTIME140.dll is missing from your computer" error when trying to launch a 64-bit program.

Who Should Avoid It?

• 32-bit (x86) Users: If you are trying to run a 32-bit application, this x64 version will not work. You would need the x86 version of the redistributable instead.
• Modern OS Users with Unified Runtimes: If you already have the "Visual C++ 2015-2022" package installed, you do not need this standalone 2017 version, as the 2015-2022 package already includes all 2017 components.

Real-World Usage Notes

• Workflow: This is a "passive" installation. Once the setup is complete, the software sits in your system folders and only "wakes up" when a program specifically calls for its libraries.
• System Impact: Negligible. It does not run any background processes, does not show up in your taskbar, and does not impact boot times.
• Versioning: It is common to see several versions in the "Apps & Features" list. This is normal and intentional; removing them can cause older software to stop working.

Compatibility & Requirements

• Supported OS: Windows 7 SP1, Windows 8.1, Windows 10, and Windows 11.
• Architecture: 64-bit (x64) only.
• Installation: Requires administrative privileges to install files into the C:\Windows\System32 directory.

Limitations

• Standalone Obsolecence: Microsoft no longer provides the 2017 version as a standalone download on many of its main pages, preferring the unified 2015-2022 installer.
• No Backward Compatibility with 2013: This package does not fix errors for software made in 2013 or earlier; those require their own specific redistributable packages (e.g., VC++ 2010, 2013).
• Architecture Locking: The x64 version will only support x64 applications.

Safety & Privacy

• Privacy: Microsoft does not use this package to collect personal data or monitor user activity.
• Security: It is critical to keep this updated (usually via Windows Update) as older versions of these libraries can occasionally have security vulnerabilities that could be exploited by malicious software.

Summary

The Microsoft Visual C++ 2017 Redistributable (x64) is a fundamental system component for running 64-bit Windows software from the late 2010s. While it is now largely superseded by the unified 2015-2022 package, it remains the direct solution for missing DLL errors in 2017-era applications. It is a safe, lightweight, and necessary addition for any functional Windows environment.