Ensuring your applications run smoothly and efficiently is paramount. Many applications developed using Microsoft C and C++ (MSVC) tools rely on Visual C++ runtime libraries to function correctly. These libraries are essential components that provide the necessary runtime environment for these applications. If an application you’re trying to run requires these libraries and they are missing or outdated, you might encounter errors or instability. This is where the Microsoft Visual C++ Redistributable package comes into play.
Before installing any application that utilizes MSVC runtime libraries, it’s crucial to ensure that a compatible Microsoft Visual C++ Redistributable package is installed on your system. The architecture of the Redistributable package must align with your application’s target architecture (e.g., 32-bit or 64-bit). Furthermore, the Redistributable version should be at least as recent as the MSVC toolset used to build the application. For optimal performance, security, and the latest features, it’s generally recommended to use the most up-to-date Redistributable package available for your version of Visual Studio. You can find comprehensive information and resources about Visual C++ and related technologies on learn.microsoft.com.
Distributing the Visual C++ Runtime Redistributable package, merge modules, and individual binaries is subject to licensing terms and is intended for licensed Visual Studio users. For detailed guidance on installing and redistributing Visual Studio components, refer to the official documentation on learn.microsoft.com, specifically the section on Redistributing Visual C++ Files.
Why Use the Latest Visual C++ Redistributable?
Keeping your Visual C++ Redistributable updated offers several key advantages, particularly for applications built with Visual Studio 2015, 2017, 2019, and 2022. These modern versions of Visual Studio benefit significantly from the frequent updates to the Redistributable package. Unlike older versions with less frequent updates, the latest Redistributable ensures you have:
- Latest C++ Features: Access to the most recently implemented C++ language features, allowing applications to leverage modern programming techniques and improvements.
- Enhanced Security: Regular updates include vital security patches, protecting your system and applications from potential vulnerabilities.
- Improved Reliability: Updates often address bugs and stability issues, leading to more reliable performance of applications depending on these libraries.
- Performance Optimizations: Microsoft continuously optimizes the runtime libraries for better performance, resulting in faster and more efficient applications.
- C++ Standards Conformance: The latest Redistributable incorporates the latest updates to C++ standard language and library standards, ensuring compatibility and adherence to industry best practices.
Therefore, for all applications developed using Visual Studio 2015, 2017, 2019, or 2022, it’s highly recommended to install the latest available Microsoft Visual C++ Redistributable.
Latest Microsoft Visual C++ Redistributable Downloads
The most current version of the Microsoft Visual C++ Redistributable is 14.42.34433.0. To ensure you have the latest enhancements and fixes, download the appropriate package for your system architecture using the links below. To verify the version of a downloaded Redistributable, simply right-click the file in Windows File Explorer, go to Properties, and then navigate to the Details tab. The File version field will display the version number.
| Architecture | Link | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| ARM64 | https://aka.ms/vs/17/release/vc_redist.arm64.exe | Permalink for latest supported ARM64 version |
| X86 | https://aka.ms/vs/17/release/vc_redist.x86.exe | Permalink for latest supported x86 version |
| X64 | https://aka.ms/vs/17/release/vc_redist.x64.exe | Permalink for latest supported x64 version. The X64 Redistributable package includes both ARM64 and X64 binaries, simplifying installation of Visual C++ ARM64 binaries on ARM64 devices when the X64 package is used. |
For access to other versions, including Long-Term Servicing Channel (LTSC) releases, visit my.visualstudio.com. This portal provides a comprehensive archive of Visual Studio and related downloads.
Important Notes:
- Architecture Compatibility: Always select the Redistributable package that matches your system’s architecture (ARM64, x86, or x64) and the architecture of the application you are installing.
- Latest is Recommended: Unless you have specific compatibility requirements with older toolsets, using the latest Redistributable is generally the best practice for optimal performance and security.
- Regular Updates: Microsoft frequently updates the Visual C++ Redistributable. It’s advisable to periodically check for and install updates to benefit from the latest improvements and security fixes. Keep an eye on learn.microsoft.com for announcements and updates regarding Visual C++ and related components.
Older Versions of Visual C++ Redistributable (For Compatibility)
While using the latest Redistributable is generally recommended, there might be situations where older applications require specific versions of the Visual C++ Redistributable for compatibility. Below are links to download older, no longer officially supported versions. However, it’s important to note that these older versions may not receive security updates and might lack the performance and feature enhancements of the latest releases. Use them only when necessary for legacy application support.
Visual Studio 2013 (VC++ 12.0) (No Longer Supported)
| Architecture | Version | Link |
|---|---|---|
| X86 | 12.0.40664.0 | vcredist_x86.exe |
| X64 | 12.0.40664.0 | vcredist_x64.exe |
For other versions and languages of Visual Studio 2013 Redistributable, refer to Update for Visual C++ 2013 Redistributable Package or my.visualstudio.com.
Visual Studio 2012 (VC++ 11.0) Update 4 (No Longer Supported)
Note: Visual Studio 2012 reached the end of extended support on January 10, 2023. It is strongly recommended to upgrade to a more recent version of Visual Studio for continued support and security updates.
| Architecture | Version | Link |
|---|---|---|
| X86 | 11.0.61030.0 | en_visual_cpp_redistributable_for_visual_studio_2012_update_4_x86_3161523.exe |
| X64 | 11.0.61030.0 | en_visual_cpp_redistributable_for_visual_studio_2012_update_4_x64_3161523.exe |
Download other versions and languages from Microsoft Visual C++ Redistributable Packages for Visual Studio 2012 Update 4 or my.visualstudio.com.
Visual Studio 2010 (VC++ 10.0) SP1 (No Longer Supported)
Note: Visual Studio 2010 Service Pack 1 reached the end of extended support on July 14, 2020.
| Architecture | Version | Link |
|---|---|---|
| X86 | 10.0.40219.325 | vcredist_x86.exe |
| X64 | 10.0.40219.325 | vcredist_x64.exe |
Redistributable files for other languages and architectures for Visual Studio 2010 can be found on my.visualstudio.com.
Visual Studio 2008 (VC++ 9.0) SP1 (No Longer Supported)
Note: Visual Studio 2008 Service Pack 1 reached the end of extended support on April 10, 2018.
| Architecture | Version | Link |
|---|---|---|
| X86 | 9.0.30729.5677 | vcredist_x86.exe |
| X64 | 9.0.30729.5677 | vcredist_x64.exe |
Download Redistributable files for other languages and architectures for Visual Studio 2008 from my.visualstudio.com.
Visual Studio 2005 (VC++ 8.0) SP1 (No Longer Supported)
Note: Visual Studio 2005 reached the end of extended support on April 12, 2016.
See Also
For further information and related resources, explore these links on learn.microsoft.com:
- Release notes (Link to Visual C++ release notes on learn.microsoft.com – replace with actual link if available)
- C++ conformance notes (Link to Visual C++ conformance notes on learn.microsoft.com – replace with actual link if available)
