This article is written in a clear, tech-support style suitable for a knowledge base, blog, or software documentation site.
Many users encounter error messages when trying to install this older package. Below is a table summarizing the most frequent errors and how to fix them.
1. "The application has failed to start because its side-by-side configuration is incorrect"
Developers use Microsoft Visual Studio 2008 to build Windows applications.
: Microsoft periodically releases security updates for this package (such as the MFC Security Update) to address vulnerabilities like DLL planting or unauthorized system access. Version Info : The most common version identified is 9.0.30729.xx , often delivered as a small executable file ( vcredist_x64.exe System Compatibility This article is written in a clear, tech-support
The is a vital Windows system component that installs runtime libraries required to execute 64-bit applications built with Visual C++ 2008 Service Pack 1. Without this library package, older PC games, enterprise software, and engineering tools developed during the late 2000s and early 2010s will refuse to launch, throwing missing Dynamic Link Library ( .dll ) errors. What is the Visual C++ 2008 SP1 Redistributable (x64)?
If you are receiving "Side-by-Side configuration" errors, your existing 2008 runtime files might be corrupted. Open > Programs and Features . Locate Microsoft Visual C++ 2008 Redistributable (x64) . Right-click it and select Change , then click Repair . Restart your computer. 3. Where should I download the package?
Avoid third-party "free DLL download" websites. These files can be injected with malware, spyware, or may simply be incompatible with your OS, leading to deeper system stability issues.
When installed, the package places essential Dynamic Link Libraries (DLLs) into the system. The most commonly referenced files in this package include: Version Info : The most common version identified is 9
Built specifically for 64-bit versions of the Windows operating system.
Originally published August 9, 2008; critical security updates continued through July 2024. File Name: vcredist_x64.exe . File Size: Approximately 5.0 MB. Architecture: Specifically for x64 (64-bit) systems. Included Runtime Components
Why do I have both the (x86) and (x64) versions of 2008 installed?
Absolutely. Each major version (2005, 2008, 2010, 2012, 2013, 2015-2022) is independent and will coexist peacefully on your system. They do not conflict with each other. It's recommended to have a complete set to ensure broad application support. classic PC games
Because these packages take up very little disk space (usually just a few megabytes), removing them provides no tangible benefit to your system storage. However, removing them carries a high risk of breaking older software, classic PC games, or background printer/hardware drivers that still quietly rely on those legacy runtime instructions to function. How to Safely Install, Repair, or Download the Package
The Legacy Guide to Microsoft Visual C++ 2008 SP1 Redistributable Package (x64)
While originally released for older versions of Windows, the package remains essential for legacy software compatibility on modern systems: Supported OS (Legacy)