When there is a problem with the installer file or Visual C++ redistributable packages, the application crashes when you open it and Windows shows the “side-by-side configuration is incorrect” error message. The full error is “The application has failed to start because its side-by-side configuration is incorrect. Please see the application event log or use the command-line sxstrace.exe tool for more detail.”
When you get this error, it means that the application is unable to find, access, or load the required version of the Visual C++ Redistributable package(s) that it needs to function properly. The “side-by-side” in the error message refers to the multiple versions of the same library or component existing simultaneously on a system. This allows applications to use the specific version they require without interfering with other applications that might need a different version of the same library.
While the error seems cryptic, thankfully, fixing it is relatively easy. Follow the below-provided methods to troubleshoot and fix the side-by-side configuration is incorrect error.
Fix ‘Side-By Side Configuration Is Incorrect’ Error
Try the methods given below to troubleshoot and solve the ‘side-by-side configuration is incorrect’ error on Windows.
- Reinstall Visual C++ packages
- Run the sfc /scannow command
- Redownload and install the program
Let’s see each method in detail:
Reinstall Visual C++ packages
Every program on Windows requires shared components from Visual C++ packages. Generally, Windows and other programs automatically install these packages so that they work as intended. However, if there are missing or corrupted files or incompatibility issues with the Visual C++ packages, it causes the application has failed to start side by side error. In those cases, you need to reinstall the Visual C++ packages. Here’s how to do it.
Step 1: Go to the official Visual C++ redistributable downloads page.
Download link: https://learn.microsoft.com/en-US/cpp/windows/latest-supported-vc-redist?view=msvc-170
Step 2: Download Visual C++ 2010, 2012, 2013, 2015, 2017, 2019, and 2022 packages.
Step 3: Double-click on the installer files and follow the wizard to install all Visual C++ packages.
Step 4: Restart your PC.
After restarting, you will no longer encounter the side-by-side configuration is incorrect error on Windows 11 or 10.
Run the sfc /scannow command
The error can also occur if there is a problem with system files, such as damaged or corrupted files. In that case, running the sfc /scannow command will fix them and in turn solves the side-by-side error on Windows. Here’s how to run the command.
Step 1: Search for Command Prompt in the Start menu.
Step 2: Right-click on the result and select the “Run as Administrator” option.
Step 3: Input sfc /scannow in the command window and press Enter on your keyboard.
Step 4: After that, run the below command.
dism /Online /Cleanup-image /Restorehealth
Step 5: Once both commands run, close the window and restart your PC.
You will no longer encounter the side-by-side error on Windows 11.
Redownload and install the program
Sometimes, the installed programs files might be corrupted or damaged, to fix the problem, you must uninstall the application, redownload and reinstall it. While downloading, ensure the program’s exe file is compatible with your system. Also, if your system is 64-bit, try to download the x64 installer. By redownloading the program from a trusted source and performing a clean installation, you ensure that all the necessary files and dependencies are correctly set up. This can resolve any issues related to the application’s installation and configuration, allowing it to run smoothly without encountering the “side-by-side configuration is incorrect” error. Don’t forget to restart your PC after reinstalling the program.
That is all. By following the methods provided above, you can easily solve the problem and make sure you never encounter the ‘side-by-side configuration is incorrect’ error on Windows.
If you are stuck or need help, send an email, and I will try to help as much as possible.
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