Microsoft vc80 mfc processorarchitecture x86

Fixing Side-by-Side Assembly Errors in MFC Applications

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Microsoft Visual C++ 2008 (VC80) applications based on Microsoft Foundation Classes (MFC) can sometimes encounter issues when deployed to environments without a corresponding version of the Visual Studio 2005 (VS2005) development tools. This article aims to provide guidance and solutions for resolving these problems, specifically focusing on side-by-side assembly errors.

Understanding Side-by-Side Assembly Issues

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When an MFC application is executed, it relies upon various dynamic link libraries (DLLs), many of which are part of the Visual C++ Redistributable Package. In some cases, missing or corrupted DLLs can lead to '14001: side by side assembly' errors.

Common Causes and Symptoms

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1. Missing VC80 runtime components.

2. Corrupted installation of VS2005 SP1 (Service Pack 1) or later versions.

Troubleshooting Steps for MFC Applications

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### Step 1: Verify Presence of Required DLLs

Ensure that the following VC++ redistributable packages are installed on target machines:

* Microsoft Visual C++ Redistributable Package (x86 - x64)

* Microsoft Visual C++ SP1 Redistributable Package (x86 - x64)

### Step 2: Create a Deployment Project in VS2008

To resolve side-by-side assembly issues, consider creating an independent deployment project for your MFC application. This approach allows you to package all required DLLs and runtime components into a single executable file.

1. Open the Visual Studio 2008 (VS2008) solution that contains your MFC application.

2. Right-click on the Solution in VS2008's Solution Explorer, then select 'Add' > 'New Project'.

3. In the wizard dialog box, under 'Visual C++', choose 'Setup & Deployment' and click Next.

### Step 3: Configure Setup Wizard

1. Choose a setup type (e.g., Typical or Custom) depending on your deployment needs.

2. Under 'Application Files', check all files to include in the final installation package.

- Ensure that vc9redist.x86.exe (x64 for x64 builds) is included if not already selected.

### Step 4: Create a Setup Project Manifest

1. In VS2008, right-click on your MFC application project and select 'Properties'.

2. Under the 'Linker' section, find 'Manifest File', and ensure that it's set to either 'merge with /manifestresource:24' or '/UAC:EmbedManifiest'.

### Step 5: Build and Test the Deployment Project

1. Rebuild your MFC application project.

2. Right-click on the deployment project in VS2008, then select 'Build'.

3. Run the resulting executable file on target machines with .NET Framework 4 or higher installed.

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By following these steps and best practices for creating a deployable setup package that includes all required VC++ runtime components and DLLs, you can significantly reduce side-by-side assembly errors in your MFC applications when deployed to environments without Visual Studio 2005.

Microsoft vc80 mfc processorarchitecture x86