After reboot, search for MSVCR100.dll in C:\Windows\System32 and C:\Windows\SysWOW64 . Both should exist and have a file version of 10.0.40219.1 or higher.
Follow this systematic guide. Perform the steps in order, testing if SolidWorks launches successfully after each one.
Ensure your antivirus software is not blocking the installation.
Right-click each of these versions and select , then click Repair . error cannot initialize library solidworks 2012
To fix the error permanently, it helps to understand what triggers it. In SolidWorks 2012, this message is almost always tied to three specific infrastructure failures:
Windows User Account Control (UAC) sometimes blocks SolidWorks from accessing the DLL files and libraries it needs to initialize. Close SolidWorks completely.
Follow these methods in order, starting with the quickest and most common solutions. Method 1: Repair the SolidWorks Installation After reboot, search for MSVCR100
Don't let this error halt your design work. With this guide, you have the tools to diagnose, fix, and prevent it for good.
Close the Registry Editor and launch SolidWorks. The software will regenerate a fresh registry key structure, which often resolves hidden library path corruption. Summary Checklist
Type regsvr32 [filename].dll (e.g., regsvr32 sldshellutils14u.dll ) and press . 4. Disable Compatibility Mode Perform the steps in order, testing if SolidWorks
Install the packages, reboot your PC, and launch SolidWorks. Method 3: Repair or Enable Microsoft .NET Framework
However, users should keep in mind that SOLIDWORKS 2012 is no longer supported by Dassault Systèmes. If you are running this on Windows 10 or Windows 11, compatibility issues may become more frequent. Ensuring you have a stable backup of your templates and settings is highly recommended.