Version Latest
Microsoft Visual C++ Redistributable Package v14.38.33135.0 (64-bit)
Requirements
Windows 10 / Windows 11 / Windows 7 / Windows 8
Size
6.9 MB

The Microsoft Visual C++ Redistributable Package is a required component for running Microsoft Visual C++ programs on Windows platforms. It comprises a number of runtime libraries required to ensure the compatibility and optimal performance of applications developed with Microsoft's C++ development tools. 

We recommend that you install this version for all apps built with Visual Studio 2015, 2017, 2019, or 2022. 

This package enables developers to share their C++ applications without requiring users to install the whole Visual Studio suite on their computers.

Looking for a 32-bit version? Download here!

Key Features

The Microsoft Visual C++ Redistributable Package 64bit includes numerous critical elements that contribute to smooth program execution: 

Runtime Libraries: The package includes a collection of runtime libraries designed for different versions of Microsoft Visual C++. These libraries contain critical components such as memory management, input/output operations, and other low-level functions required for C++ applications. 

Multiple Versions: Because programs can be built with different versions of Microsoft Visual C++, the redistributable package includes multiple versions of runtime libraries. This ensures interoperability between programs produced with various C++ toolkits. 

Side-by-Side Installation: The package allows several versions of the runtime libraries to coexist on the same system without conflict. This is critical for ensuring compatibility across several applications. 

User Interface 

The Microsoft Visual C++ Redistributable Package is not a standalone application and so lacks a user interface. Its functionality is invisible to end users and only serves developers and apps that rely on the runtime libraries it offers. 

Installation & Setup 

To download the redistributable package for the required version, go to the official Microsoft Download Center, FileHorse, or the Microsoft Visual Studio website. 

Select Version: Choose the package version that best meets the needs of the target application. Ensure that you are downloading the correct architecture (x86 or x64) for your system. 

Run the installer by double-clicking the downloaded executable. Follow the installer's onscreen instructions. 

Completion: Once the installation is finished, the required runtime libraries will be available on your machine. There is no distinct UI for managing these libraries. 

How To Use?

End users are not required to engage directly with the Microsoft Visual C++ Redistributable Package. Developers, on the other hand, include the necessary runtime libraries in their C++ applications during the development stage. These libraries are thus immediately invoked when users run Visual C++-based apps. 

PROS

  • Ensures compatibility for C++ applications developed with Visual C++
  • Multiple versions can coexist
  • Essential for running many Windows applications

CONS

  • Can take up disk space with multiple versions installed

FAQ

Q. What is the Microsoft Visual C++ Redistributable Package? 
It is a set of runtime libraries required to run applications created using Microsoft Visual C++. 

Q. Do I have to install this package for each application? 
No, the package only needs to be installed once for each version of Visual C++. Applications built with the same version share the same runtime libraries. 

Q. Can I uninstall previous versions of the package? 
It is generally not suggested to uninstall previous versions, as they may be required by some apps. Newer versions can coexist without problems. 

Q. Is this package just for developers? 
Yes, the package helps developers by allowing them to deploy apps without including the whole Visual Studio suite. 

Q. How can I see which versions of the package are installed on my system? 
On Windows, navigate to the "Programs and Features" section of the Control Panel to view the installed redistributable packages.