Use a tool like (depends.com) or Process Explorer to see which running processes have loaded msvcr90.dll . If you are unsure, leave the package installed. The disk space usage (approx 8-12 MB for x64) is negligible on modern drives.
The error might be for a different runtime (e.g., MSVCR100.dll for VS2010). Also, ensure you are not missing the x86 version if the game is 32-bit but your OS is 64-bit. Finally, try reinstalling the game itself, as it may have corrupted its local manifest files.
You can also add logging to help troubleshoot silent installations:
When you install an old game or application, it automatically adds the runtime to your system.
: Microsoft has released several security updates for this package (such as the MFC Security Update Use a tool like (depends
Right-click the entry and select (or Repair if directly visible).
When an app starts up, it calls upon these DLLs. If they are missing, you will get a popup error stating that the program cannot start. Common Errors and How to Fix Them
Sometimes, a 64-bit application requires the 32-bit (x86) components to work correctly. Install both vcredist_x64.exe and vcredist_x86.exe to cover all dependencies. Conclusion
You can have multiple versions (2008, 2010, 2015, etc.) installed at once without conflict. Common Issues and Errors The error might be for a different runtime (e
The is a software library component released by Microsoft in August 2008. Its primary purpose is to allow 64-bit (x64) applications—which were developed with Visual C++ 2008 SP1—to run on a computer that doesn't have Microsoft Visual C++ 2008 SP1 installed. Without it, many older programs and games may fail to start, showing an error about a missing DLL.
While originally released for older versions of Windows, the package remains essential for legacy software compatibility on modern systems: Supported OS (Legacy)
folder) to allow multiple versions of the same library to coexist without conflict. Security Updates
The is a collection of runtime components essential for running 64-bit applications developed with Visual C++ 2008. While it may seem like a relic, it remains a frequent guest in modern Windows environments due to how older software and games were built. Why You See It Everywhere You can also add logging to help troubleshoot
The package installs runtime components of the following libraries, many of which are placed in the Windows side-by-side assembly cache (WinSxS folder):
This article explores what this package is, why Service Pack 1 (SP1) was crucial, and why you might still need it on a modern system.
You usually realize you need this package when you see errors like: "The program can't start because MSVCR90.dll is missing." "Runtime Error!"