The Microsoft Visual C++ 2008 SP1 Redistributable Package (x64) is a collection of runtime components required to run 64-bit applications developed with Visual C++ 2008 Service Pack 1. Even though Visual Studio 2008 itself is no longer supported by Microsoft as of 2018, these redistributable packages remain critical for maintaining compatibility with legacy software. Key Update Details
What does "SP1" mean?
To understand the 2008 package, we have to understand what these redistributables do. When a developer writes a program in C++, they usually rely on a standard library of functions (like instructions on how to open a file or draw a window). Microsoft provides these functions in the form of DLLs (Dynamic Link Libraries). The Microsoft Visual C++ 2008 SP1 Redistributable Package
Architecture Matching: Even on a 64-bit Windows system, some 32-bit applications may still require the x86 version of this redistributable. It is safe and often necessary to have both the x86 and x64 versions installed simultaneously. Microsoft Official Download – KB971090 (VC++ 2008 SP1