Visual C ++

Rana Ayyash 0 Reputation points
2025-08-25T21:04:00.5966667+00:00

Microsoft Visual C++ Runtime Library – Assertion Failure

I have been receiving an Assertion Failure message from Windows (expression: vulcan_) and I’m not sure how to fix it or how critical it is.

I have also been experiencing issues with Adobe, and their customer support informed me that the problem may not be resolved because it is related to Microsoft.

I have been searching extensively for a way to contact a Microsoft support agent, but I can only find links that redirect to more links, with no direct contact option.

Could you please advise me on how to resolve this issue or direct me to the right support channel?

Thank you for your assistance.

*Your email address has been removed according to Microsoft Community Security Policies.

Developer technologies | C++
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2 answers

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  1. Varsha Dundigalla(INFOSYS LIMITED) 1,110 Reputation points Microsoft External Staff
    2025-08-26T06:52:37.2166667+00:00

    Thank you for reaching out. please find the steps below

    If you’re seeing “Microsoft Visual C++ Runtime Library – Assertion failed (expression: vulcan_)” while using Adobe software, don’t worry — this is not a hardware issue. It’s caused by Adobe’s Vulcan component (part of Creative Cloud) throwing an error inside the Microsoft Visual C++ runtime.

    Here are the key steps to resolve it:

    Quick Fix Checklist for “vulcan_” Assertion Failure (Adobe + Visual C++)

    1. Repair Visual C++ Redistributables
      • Go to Settings → Apps → Installed apps
      • Find each Microsoft Visual C++ Redistributable
      • Click Modify → Repair
      • Restart your PC
    2. Reinstall Visual C++ Redistributables
    • Download from: Microsoft VC++ Downloads
      • Install x64 and x86 versions
      • For older Adobe apps, install 2013 version
      • Restart your PC
    1. Repair or Reinstall Adobe Apps
      • Use Creative Cloud Desktop to update or repair
      • If needed, uninstall and use the Adobe Cleaner Tool
      • Reinstall Adobe apps
    2. Update Everything
      • Run Windows Update
      • Update Adobe apps via Creative Cloud
      • Update graphics drivers from NVIDIA / AMD / Intel
    3. System Health Check (Optional)
      • Open Command Prompt as Admin
      • Run:
         sfc /scannow
          DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /RestoreHealth
      
    4. Support

    Let us know if you need further help with this. We'll be happy to assist.


  2. Susmitha T (INFOSYS LIMITED) 575 Reputation points Microsoft External Staff
    2025-08-27T08:01:08.4833333+00:00

    Hope you are doing good! Thank you for reaching out. Please find the answer below.

     

    Since this error is related to Adobe’s Vulcan module interacting with Microsoft’s Visual C++ runtime, the steps we shared earlier are the most effective way to resolve it. However, if you’re not comfortable performing these steps yourself, there are support options available. 

    1. Adobe Support (Recommended First Step) Because the issue originates from Adobe’s Vulcan component, Adobe’s support team is best equipped to assist you directly. You can request remote help from an Adobe agent here:  Adobe Help Center

     

    When you reach out, mention the error message: “Microsoft Visual C++ Runtime Library – Assertion failed (expression: vulcan_)” and let them know you’ve already tried basic troubleshooting.

     

    2. Microsoft Support (If Adobe Refers You Back) If Adobe confirms the issue requires Microsoft’s help, you can contact Microsoft Support here: Contact Us - Microsoft Support

     

    Once on the page:

    • Select “Contact Support”
    • Choose “Technical Support”
    • Then follow the prompts to connect with a live agent (chat or call)

    If issue still persist after following all the steps, we’ll be happy to assist further if needed." Kindly mark the answer as accepted if the issue resolved".

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