Even if you are running a 64-bit version of Windows, you must often install the x86 version (and sometimes both) because many applications are still compiled as 32-bit programs. What Does it Install? The 2013 package installs run-time components for: C Runtime (CRT) Standard C++ ATL (Active Template Library) MFC (Microsoft Foundation Class) C++ AMP (Accelerated Massive Parallelism) Why Do You Need It? (Common Error Messages)
reg query "HKLM\SOFTWARE\Microsoft\VisualStudio\12.0\VC\Runtimes\x86" /v Version vc 2013 redist x86
| Attribute | Value | |-----------|-------| | | 12.0.40660.0 (final update) | | Architecture | x86 (32-bit) | | File Name | vcredist_x86.exe | | Support | Extended support ended April 9, 2019 | Even if you are running a 64-bit version
If you have ever tried to launch a game, application, or tool, only to be met with an error message stating that msvcr120.dll or msvcp120.dll is missing, you have likely encountered the need for the . including Windows XP
"The program can't start because MSVCR120.dll is missing from your computer."
"The program can't start because MSVCP120.dll is missing from your computer."
: Compatible with legacy and modern Windows versions, including Windows XP, Vista, 7, 8, 8.1, and various Windows Server editions .