Microsoft Visual C++ Redistributable Package (64-bit)

The Microsoft Visual C++ Redistributable Package is an essential component for running applications developed using Microsoft Visual C++ on Windows operating systems. It includes various runtime libraries that are necessary for ensuring compatibility and optimal performance of applications created with Microsoft's C++ development tools.

We recommend that you install this version for all applications created using Visual Studio 2015, 2017, 2019, or 2022.

This package allows developers to distribute their C++ applications without requiring users to have the entire Visual Studio suite installed on their machines.

Key Features

The Microsoft Visual C++ Redistributable Package 64bit offers several key features that contribute to seamless application execution:

Runtime Libraries: The package contains a set of runtime libraries specific to different versions of Microsoft Visual C++. These libraries provide essential components like memory management, input/output operations, and other low-level functionalities required by C++ applications.

Multiple Versions: Since applications can be developed using different versions of Microsoft Visual C++, the redistributable package offers multiple versions of runtime libraries. This ensures compatibility across applications built using different C++ toolsets.

Side-by-Side Installation: The package supports side-by-side installation, allowing multiple versions of the runtime libraries to coexist on the same system without conflicts. This is crucial for maintaining compatibility across various applications.

User Interface

The Microsoft Visual C++ Redistributable Package is not a standalone application and therefore does not have a user interface. Its functionality is transparent to end users and primarily benefits developers and applications that rely on the runtime libraries it provides.

Installation and Setup

Download: Visit the official Microsoft Download Center, FileHorse, or the Microsoft Visual Studio website to access the redistributable package for the desired version.

Select Version: Choose the appropriate version of the package based on the target application's requirements. Ensure you're downloading the correct architecture (x86 or x64) to match your system.

Run Installer: Double-click the downloaded installer executable. Follow the on-screen instructions provided by the installer.

Completion: Once the installation is complete, the necessary runtime libraries will be available on your system. There's no separate user interface for managing these libraries.

How to Use

End users do not need to interact directly with the MS Visual C++ Redistributable Package. Developers, on the other hand, integrate the required runtime libraries into their C++ applications during the development phase. These libraries are then automatically invoked when users launch applications built with Visual C++.

FAQ

What is the Microsoft Visual C++ Redistributable Package?
It's a collection of runtime libraries necessary for running applications developed with Microsoft Visual C++.

Do I need to install this package for every application?
No, you only need to install the package once for each version of Visual C++. Applications developed using the same version share the same runtime libraries.

Can I uninstall older versions of the package?
It's generally not recommended to uninstall older versions, as they might be required by certain applications. Newer versions can coexist without conflicts.

Is this package only for developers?
Yes, the package benefits developers by allowing them to distribute applications without bundling the entire Visual Studio suite.

How can I check which versions of the package are installed on my system?
You can check the installed redistributable packages through the "Programs and Features" section in the Control Panel on Windows.

System Requirements

• Windows 11 (x86, x64 and ARM64)
• Windows 10 (x86 and x64)
• Windows 8.1 (x86 and x64)
• Windows 8 (x86 and x64)
• Windows 7 SP1 (x86 and x64)
• Windows Server 2019
• Windows Server 2016
• Windows Server 2012 R2
• Windows Server 2012
• Windows Server 2008 R2 SP1

On April 8, 2014, Microsoft concluded its support for Windows XP. Present iterations of the Visual C++ Redistributable designed for Visual Studio 2015-2022 are exclusively compatible with Windows Vista, 7, 8.1, 10, and 11.

The most recent edition of the Visual C++ Redistributable that functions on Windows XP was incorporated in Visual Studio 2019 version 16.7 (identified by file versions commencing with 14.27). This version of the Redistributable is accessible within the Downloads section under the title "Visual C++ Redistributable for Visual Studio 2019 (version 16.7)".

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

Conclusion

The Microsoft Visual C++ Redistributable Package is an indispensable tool for both developers and end users of C++ applications on Windows. While its presence might go unnoticed by users, its role in providing essential runtime libraries for countless applications cannot be overstated.

By enabling compatibility and optimal performance, this package plays a crucial role in the Windows software ecosystem. Developers can confidently rely on it to ensure their applications run smoothly across various Windows systems, and end users can enjoy the benefits without even realizing it's there.

Also Available: Microsoft Visual C++ Redistributable Package (32-bit)