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api-ms-win-core-file-l1-2-0.dll - Analyze and How to Fix Errors

★★★★★ Verified File (27.08.2026)

Description


Creation date: 20.11.2015 06:52:50
File version: 10.0.10586.15
Antivirus scan: ✅ OK
Category: System
File size: 18.9 kb.
Architecture: 64-bit (x64)
✅ This file is compatible with 64-bit Windows and ❌ will not work on a 32-bit operating system.
How to determine your system architecture: Press keys Win+R , enter symbols wmic os get osarchitecture , press Enter.

Digital file signature api-ms-win-core-file-l1-2-0.dll

Publisher: Microsoft Corporation
Issuer: Microsoft Code Signing PCA
Encryption algorithm: SHA1
Time stamp: Apr 5 06:03:38 2018 GMT

api-ms-win-core-file-l1-2-0.dll is a Microsoft Windows system file that plays a critical role in the operating system's functionality. This DLL (Dynamic Link Library) contains essential code and data used by various applications to perform file operations, such as creating, opening, and reading files.

MD5: bff0442f1cea16cee9a4241699ddf0e6
SHA-1: 921956879d02120c096841f0059575e6ef693a8e
SHA-256: 910467f08142291069c54fc144e30fb162d96bff5d8fdfd5cd1f082bc90492e0

Where it is used

This particular file might be associated with system processes that handle file operations. It could be part of the Windows core components or utilized by third-party applications that require file manipulation capabilities. Commonly, this DLL is referenced in kernel32.dll and other system-related functions.

Errors related to api-ms-win-core-file-l1-2-0.dll

  • "api-ms-win-core-file-l1-2-0.dll not found"
  • "missing api-ms-win-core-file-l1-2-0.dll"
  • "error loading api-ms-win-core-file-l1-2-0.dll"

These errors can cause application crashes or system instability, as the DLL is a critical component for many Windows processes and applications. They might occur due to missing or corrupted files.

File security

The file is considered safe and part of Microsoft's official system libraries, which are regularly updated through Windows updates. However, if you encounter suspicious behavior or errors related to this DLL, it's advisable to run a virus scan and ensure your system is up-to-date.

api-ms-win-core-file-l1-2-0.dll was not found
The code execution cannot proceed because api-ms-win-core-file-l1-2-0.dll was not found
Failed to load api-ms-win-core-file-l1-2-0.dll
The procedure entry point ... could not be located in api-ms-win-core-file-l1-2-0.dll

1.
2a. 👉 Try to copy api-ms-win-core-file-l1-2-0.dll C:\Program Files\Your program\
2b. Also try to copy to bin, lib folders.
2c. Try to copy api-ms-win-core-file-l1-2-0.dll C:\Program Files (x86)\Your program\
👉 Do not replace the files without first making backups.
How do I switch to the current Windows directory?
- Press and hold the key "win" on the keyboard and press the key "r" , then write %windir% and press the key Enter.
How to switch to the directory Program Files (x86) ?
- Press Win+R then enter %ProgramFiles(x86)% and after press Enter.

How to fix errors

  1. Reinstall the program: If an application reports this error, try reinstalling it. This can replace any missing or corrupt DLL files.
  2. Update Windows: Ensure your operating system is up-to-date with the latest patches and updates to avoid compatibility issues.
  3. Manually replace api-ms-win-core-file-l1-2-0.dll using this page: To manually replace the file, download it from a trusted source and copy it to the relevant directory. However, be cautious when doing so as incorrect replacements can cause system instability.

FAQ

Is api-ms-win-core-file-l1-2-0.dll safe?
Yes, it is part of Microsoft's official system libraries. However, always verify the source before downloading any files.
Can I replace this DLL file manually?
Yes, but be cautious as incorrect replacements can cause issues. It’s recommended to update your operating system instead.

Conclusion

The file api-ms-win-core-file-l1-2-0.dll is a critical component of the Windows operating system, responsible for managing file operations. If you encounter errors related to this DLL, ensure your system and applications are up-to-date, or consider reinstalling affected programs.


File Description and Standard Location

The file api-ms-win-core-file-l1-2-0.dll is an ApiSet Stub DLL used by the Windows operating system to route core file-handling application programming interface (API) calls. It is a system component of the Universal C Runtime (UCRT) library.

  • ?? Standard 64-bit Location: C:\Windows\System32\
  • ?? Standard 32-bit Location (on 64-bit OS): C:\Windows\SysWOW64\
  • ?? Windows Internal Backup Location: C:\Windows\System32\downlevel\

How to Fix the Missing File Error (Without Downloading From Third-Party Sites)

You can fix this error natively using built-in Windows diagnostic tools or official Microsoft updates instead of risking security threats by downloading files from unofficial websites.

??? Method 1: Use the Built-in Downlevel Copy (Quickest Fix)

Windows natively keeps backup copies of API set stubs inside a hidden system folder. You can copy it directly into your application directory.

  1. Open File Explorer and go to C:\Windows\System32\downlevel\.
  2. Locate api-ms-win-core-file-l1-2-0.dll.
  3. Right-click the file and select Copy.
  4. Navigate to the folder of the specific game or program that is giving you the error.
  5. Right-click inside the application folder and select Paste.

?? Method 2: Run SFC and DISM System Repair

If system components are corrupted, Windows can automatically scan and reconstruct them from its local component store.

  1. Press the Windows Key, type cmd, right-click Command Prompt, and select Run as administrator.
  2. Execute the deployment image maintenance command:
    DISM.exe /Online /Cleanup-image /Restorehealth
  3. Wait for completion, then execute the system file checker:
    sfc /scannow
  4. Restart your computer once the scan completes.

?? Method 3: Install Official Microsoft Visual C++ Redistributables

These errors commonly trigger because an application requires the official Microsoft runtime libraries, which can be deployed natively using the official installers already present on your system or from Windows Update.

  1. Check if you have an official installer folder named CommonRedist or Redist inside your game/program installation directory.
  2. Run the vc redist.x64.exe or vc redist.x86.exe file located inside.
  3. If not present, go to Settings > Update & Security > Windows Update and click Check for updates to restore missing runtime components.

If you'd like to narrow down the problem further, let me know:

  • What is the exact game or application throwing the error?
  • Which version of Windows are you currently running?
Other versions:
️ api-ms-win-core-file-l1-2-0.dll 10.0.17134.12 32-bit (x86)
Microsoft Corporation