In this comprehensive guide, we will unpack everything you need to know: what it is, why version 12.0.40664 matters, how to fix installation errors, and best practices for deployment.
: Navigate to C:\Windows\SysWOW64\msvcr120.dll (on 64-bit Windows), right-click → Properties → Details tab → Product version: 12.0.40664.0 . vc2013redistx86 visual c 2013 x86 120 40664
The primary function of this redistributable is to act as a translator and a bridge. Many legacy applications—ranging from scientific software to older PC games like Grand Theft Auto V or League of Legends —were compiled using the 2013 toolset. Without vc2013redist_x86 , these programs would fail to launch, generating cryptic error messages such as "The program can't start because MSVCR120.dll is missing from your computer." The file msvcr120.dll (Microsoft C Runtime library for Visual Studio 2013) is the core payload of this package. Thus, the redistributable provides the necessary runtime environment, allowing software to call functions for memory management, input/output operations, and string handling without needing to reinvent the wheel. In this comprehensive guide, we will unpack everything