How to Fix the “Side-by-Side Configuration Is Incorrect” Error on Windows?

I’m encountering the “Side-by-Side Configuration Is Incorrect” error on my Windows PC when trying to launch certain applications. What are the most effective methods to identify and fix the underlying cause of this error, and if troubleshooting leads to application crashes or data loss, how can Data Recovery software be used to recover important files safely?

Tagged: Windows 11

Windows PC/ Laptop

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Mira Lennox Lennox

Participant

December 17, 2025 at 7:29 am

This error is usually caused by broken or missing Visual C++ components after an update or app install. The most reliable fix is to uninstall and reinstall the Microsoft Visual C++ Redistributables from Microsoft, then reinstall the affected app so it registers the right files. If only one program fails, checking Event Viewer will usually point to the exact runtime it’s missing. This problem doesn’t normally cause data loss, but if crashes or reinstalls leave files inaccessible, back up what you can first using Safe Mode or Windows Recovery. Data recovery software like Stellar Data Recovery should only be used if files are actually missing or corrupted, not as part of fixing the side by side error itself.

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