Error "Api-ms-win-crt-heap-l1-1-0.dll is Missing": How to Fix It?

If you encounter an error stating that Api-ms-win-crt-heap-l1-1-0.dll is missing, it can prevent certain applications from running correctly, especially if they rely on dynamic Windows libraries. This issue often arises due to problems with the Microsoft Visual C++ Redistributable component.

Causes of the "Api-ms-win-crt-heap-l1-1-0.dll is Missing" Error

Common reasons for this error include:

The Visual C++ Redistributable for Visual Studio 2015 or later is missing from your computer.
The .dll file is corrupted or accidentally deleted.
Windows system updates are missing or not correctly installed.

How to Fix "Api-ms-win-crt-heap-l1-1-0.dll is Missing" Error

1. Update Windows

First, try checking for and installing all available Windows updates. Often, components like Visual C++ Redistributable are included in system updates:

Go to Settings > Update & Security.
Click Check for updates.
Install all available updates and restart your computer.

2. Install or Reinstall Visual C++ Redistributable

If updating Windows didn’t help, try installing or updating the Visual C++ Redistributable component:

Visit the official Microsoft Visual C++ Redistributable page.
Download and install the version for your system (x64 for 64-bit systems or x86 for 32-bit).
After installation, restart your computer.

3. Run a System File Check

Sometimes, missing libraries are due to corrupted system files. Use the SFC command to restore them:

1. Open Command Prompt as Administrator.
2. Type: sfc /scannow.
3. Wait for the scan to complete and follow the on-screen instructions.

4. Download the .dll File Manually (With Caution)

If the previous methods didn’t work, you can try downloading the Api-ms-win-crt-heap-l1-1-0.dll file manually as a last resort. Only use trusted sources, as downloaded .dll files may contain malware.

After downloading, copy the file into the C:\Windows\System32 folder for 64-bit systems or C:\Windows\SysWOW64 for 32-bit systems.