Api-ms-win-core-memory-l1-1-6.dll — Missing
If after a full Windows update the error persists, the application you are trying to run is likely incompatible with your current Windows edition or architecture (e.g., x64 app on x86 Windows).
The UCRT is a core component of the Windows operating system that contains standard functions used by countless applications and games. It is typically installed and managed by Windows Update. The error occurs when a program tries to call on a memory management function from the UCRT, but the system cannot find the right forwarding link to execute it. This is often because the UCRT on your system is either missing, outdated, or corrupted.
Restart your system if the utility reports that it found and repaired broken system dependencies. 4. Install Pending Windows Updates
If you search for this error online, you will find hundreds of websites offering a "DLL Download." They promise that if you download the file and place it in your System32 folder, the problem is solved.
| Method | Success Rate | Difficulty | |--------|--------------|-------------| | 1. Install VC++ Redist | Very High | Easy | | 2. SFC & DISM | High | Easy-Medium | | 3. PowerShell App Re-register | Medium | Medium | | 4. Windows Update | Medium | Easy | | 5. Clean Boot | Low (as a fix alone) | Medium | | 6. Manual Extract | Low (requires file present) | Advanced | | 7. In-Place Upgrade | Guaranteed | Medium | api-ms-win-core-memory-l1-1-6.dll missing
This specific file belongs to the , a collection of DLLs that act as a bridge between your applications and the Windows core subsystem. The memory-l1-1-6 subset specifically routes memory allocation, virtual memory tracking, and management tasks.
If the error disappears, re-enable services one by one to find the culprit. Also, consider uninstalling any non-Microsoft antivirus temporarily.
Symptoms and impact
If your OS version should have the file but it's corrupted or missing: Command Prompt If after a full Windows update the error
Download both the and x64 (64-bit) architectures for the latest Visual Studio release cycle (2015–2022).
The program requires a newer Windows update that includes the l1-1-6 subset of memory functions.
versions, as 64-bit systems still require 32-bit libraries for certain apps. Run System File Checker (SFC)
Would you like a copy-paste ready answer for users (e.g., for a forum or support ticket)? The error occurs when a program tries to
If the file isn’t found in WinSxS, proceed to the final method.
If the error only occurs with one specific program, uninstalling and performing a clean reinstall may restore the missing file if it was originally bundled with the installer. Warning: DLL Download Sites
Sudden power losses, failed updates, or hard drive sectors can corrupt essential system structures.
Navigate to the official Microsoft support page for Visual C++ Redistributable Downloads .