Choosing between 32-bit and 64-bit MSVCP140 runtime files is a common source of confusion. On a 64-bit Windows computer, both 32-bit and 64-bit applications can be installed, and each application needs dependencies that match its own architecture.
The key rule: match the application
A 32-bit program needs 32-bit runtime components. A 64-bit program needs 64-bit runtime components. The fact that Windows itself is 64-bit does not convert a 32-bit application into a 64-bit one.
Why both runtime packages can coexist
Windows supports side-by-side 32-bit and 64-bit application environments. It is therefore normal for a 64-bit PC to have both x86 and x64 Visual C++ runtime packages installed. They serve different applications.
Symptoms of an architecture mismatch
A mismatch can produce startup failures, bad-image messages, or 0xc000007b-style errors. If the file exists but the app still cannot load it, architecture is one of the first compatibility checks to make.
A simple decision path
Identify the affected program architecture, choose the matching runtime architecture, repair or reinstall that runtime, and test the application again. If the architecture is unknown, the application vendor documentation or executable properties can provide clues.