IDE can't start because api-ms-win-core-libraryloader-l1-2-1.dll is missing from your computer

Issue

When starting the IDE, the following error may appear:

The program can't start 
because api-ms-win-core-libraryloader-l1-2-1.dll is missing from your computer.

This usually happens when the operating system version is not compatible with the installed IDE version, or when essential OS components/updates are missing.

Workaround

Try the following steps to resolve the issue:

1. Check system requirements

   • Verify that your operating system version meets the system requirements for your IDE version.
   • For IntelliJ IDEA: System requirements

     • Use the version selector at the top left of the page to choose your IDE version.

       

2. Install a compatible IDE version

   • If your OS version is lower than required, install an IDE version compatible with your system.

   • Older IntelliJ IDEA versions: https://www.jetbrains.com/idea/download/other.html

   • For other JetBrains IDEs, replace idea in the URL with the IDE name:

     https://www.jetbrains.com/<IDE name>/download/other.html
     

3. Update your system

   • Install all available OS updates.
   • Install any pending driver updates.

If the issue persists, contact support.