The LoadLibrary failed with error 126 error appears when Windows cannot load a required DLL file for an application. This issue commonly affects games, launchers, graphics tools, and development software. In most cases, missing runtime dependencies or broken drivers cause the failure.
This guide explains what error 126 means and shows the exact fixes that actually work, in the correct order.
What Does Error 126 Mean?
Error 126 means “The specified module could not be found,” which occurs when an application fails to load a required DLL file or one of its dependencies.
- The DLL is missing, or
- One of the DLL’s required dependencies is missing
The file may exist on the system, but Windows cannot load it correctly.
Common Causes of LoadLibrary Error 126
This error usually occurs due to one or more of the following reasons:
- Missing Microsoft Visual C++ Redistributable files
- Corrupted or outdated graphics drivers
- Antivirus or Windows Security blocking DLL files
- Damaged application installation files
- Missing PATH entries (developer tools)
- Corrupted Windows system files
How to Fix LoadLibrary Failed with Error 126 on Windows
1. Install or Repair Visual C++ Redistributables (Most Important)
Most Error 126 cases occur because required Visual C++ runtime libraries are missing.
Install all of the following packages in both x64 and x86 versions:
- Microsoft Visual C++ 2015–2022
- Microsoft Visual C++ 2013
- Microsoft Visual C++ 2010
Restart the PC after installation.
This step resolves Error 126 in a large number of cases.
2. Update or Reinstall Graphics Drivers
Error 126 commonly appears when Windows fails to load GPU-related DLL files such as:
nvwgf2umx.dllnvcuda.dllamdvlk64.dllig9icd64.dll
Download the latest driver from the official GPU website (NVIDIA, AMD, or Intel).
Use a clean installation option if available. Then Restart the system after installation.
3. Check Antivirus or Windows Security
Windows Security can silently block DLL files required by applications.
- Open Windows Security and review Protection History.
- Restore any blocked DLL related to the affected application.
- Add the application folder to Exclusions to prevent future blocks.
Restart the system and test again.
4. Repair or Reinstall the Application
If this error appears while launching a game or software:
- Avoid installing in protected folders like
C:\Program Files(if possible) - Verify files (Steam / Epic / Launcher)
- Or uninstall → reinstall cleanly
5. Fix PATH Issues (Python, CUDA, Dev Tools)
When Error 126 appears in Python, TensorFlow, PyTorch, CUDA, or FFmpeg, missing PATH entries often cause the issue.
- Ensure required folders exist in the System PATH.
- Reinstall the tool using the official installer.
- Match the Python version correctly with the required DLL versions.
This step applies mainly to development tools, not games.
6. Run System File Check (Advanced)
If Error 126 appears across multiple applications, Windows system files may be corrupted.
Open Command Prompt as Administrator and run:
sfc /scannowAfter it completes, run:
DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /RestoreHealthRestart the system after both scans finish.
What You Should Avoid
- Downloading random DLL files from third-party websites
- Copying DLL files directly into System32 or SysWOW64
- Disabling system components as a permanent fix
These actions often cause deeper system instability.
FAQs: LoadLibrary Failed with Error 126
Why does “LoadLibrary failed with error 126” keep appearing?
This error keeps appearing because Windows cannot load a required DLL dependency. Missing Visual C++ Redistributables, broken graphics drivers, or blocked DLL files usually trigger the issue.
Does Error 126 mean the DLL file is missing?
Not always. In many cases, the DLL file exists, but one of its required dependencies is missing. Windows then fails to load the DLL and throws Error 126.
Can Visual C++ Redistributables really fix Error 126?
Yes. Missing or broken Visual C++ Redistributables cause most Error 126 cases. Installing all required versions in both x64 and x86 formats resolves the issue for many applications.
Why does Error 126 happen after a Windows update or driver update?
Windows or driver updates can replace, remove, or break existing DLL dependencies. Graphics driver updates also affect GPU-related DLL files, which can trigger Error 126.
Is Error 126 related to graphics drivers?
Yes. Error 126 frequently appears when Windows fails to load GPU DLLs such as nvcuda.dll or nvwgf2umx.dll. Updating or reinstalling graphics drivers often fixes the problem.
Can antivirus software cause LoadLibrary error 126?
Yes. Windows Security or third-party antivirus tools may block DLL files silently. Restoring blocked files and adding exclusions prevents the error from recurring.
Why does Error 126 appear in Python, CUDA, or developer tools?
In development tools, Error 126 often occurs due to missing PATH entries or mismatched DLL versions. Incorrect Python versions or incomplete installations commonly cause this issue.
Should I download DLL files manually to fix Error 126?
No. Downloading DLL files from random websites can introduce malware or system instability. Always fix Error 126 by restoring official dependencies or reinstalling trusted software.
When should I run SFC or DISM for Error 126?
Run SFC and DISM only when Error 126 appears across multiple applications. These tools repair corrupted Windows system files that affect DLL loading.
Is LoadLibrary failed with error 126 a hardware issue?
No. Error 126 is a software-level dependency issue. It relates to missing runtimes, drivers, or system files, not faulty hardware.
The LoadLibrary failed with error 126 error usually points to a missing dependency, not a broken application. Installing Visual C++ Redistributables and updating graphics drivers fixes most cases quickly.
If the error persists, note the exact DLL name shown in the message. That detail often identifies the precise cause.
