How to Fix Data Loss and Application Errors After a Windows Update
Question details
The system became unusable, files appeared to be deleted from the hard drive, and applications failed to launch due to missing DLL components after a major Windows update.
- Product
- Windows OS
- Device & OS
- Windows
- Scenario
- Attempting to boot up and use the computer normally following a major Windows operating system upgrade.
- Observed behavior
- The notebook experiences severe application failures (specifically reporting VCRUNTIME140_1.DLL is missing, preventing software like Firefox from opening) and widespread data loss on the local drive.
Before proceeding with system repairs, ensure you have access to your cloud storage credentials or external backup drives, and use a secondary device if you need to download recovery tools.
Perform a Clean Windows Reinstallation and Update BIOS
When a Windows update critically fails and corrupts the system, a clean operating system installation combined with a BIOS update is often the most effective way to restore stability.
A partially installed or severely corrupted OS update can cause irreversible damage to the current system environment. Reinstalling Windows ensures a clean slate, while updating the BIOS ensures hardware compatibility with the new OS version.
On a working computer, navigate to the official Microsoft Windows download page and use the Media Creation Tool to create a bootable USB flash drive.
Insert the USB drive into your affected notebook, restart the computer, and enter the boot menu to boot from the USB. Follow the on-screen prompts to perform a clean installation of Windows.
Once Windows is installed, visit your notebook manufacturer's official support website. Navigate to the 'Drivers & Downloads' section, download the latest BIOS firmware for your specific model, and run the installer carefully.
Repair Visual C++ Runtime Components
Fix the 'VCRUNTIME140_1.DLL is missing' error to restore functionality to applications like Firefox.
Restore Lost Files from Backups
Recover your personal data that was removed or made inaccessible by the faulty Windows update.
Keep Your Documents Safe from OS Crashes
System errors and problematic Windows updates can lead to unexpected data loss. Switch to WPS Office, a lightweight, free Microsoft Office alternative that offers secure cloud syncing to ensure your documents are always backed up and accessible, even if your computer crashes.
- 1. Download the Installer: Visit the official WPS Office website and click the free download button.
- 2. Install the Software: Run the downloaded executable file and follow the on-screen prompts to complete the lightweight installation.
- 3. Enable Cloud Backup: Sign in with your email or social account to activate your free cloud storage and ensure your documents are automatically saved.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why did my files disappear after a Windows update?
In some cases, a major Windows update might fail to load your user profile correctly, logging you into a temporary profile where your files appear missing. Restarting your computer a few times can often resolve this. However, if the update severely corrupted the drive partition, the files might be lost and require restoration from external backups.
How do I fix the VCRUNTIME140_1.DLL missing error?
This error occurs when the Microsoft Visual C++ Redistributable components are corrupted or missing. You can fix it by going to Windows Settings > Apps, finding the Visual C++ Redistributable, and choosing 'Repair'. Alternatively, download and reinstall the latest version straight from Microsoft's official website.
Can I prevent data loss before updating Windows?
Yes. Before initiating any major system upgrade, it is highly recommended to back up your important files to an external hard drive or sync them to a cloud storage service. Additionally, ensure your device drivers and BIOS are up-to-date to minimize compatibility issues during the upgrade.
