MSVC build errors > MSB8020

MSB8020: build tools cannot be found

error MSB8020: The build tools for v142 (Platform Toolset = 'v142') cannot be found.

The project asks for a version of the MSVC compiler, its platform toolset, that is not installed in this Visual Studio.

Causes and fixes

1. The project comes from an older Visual Studio. Right-click the solution and choose Retarget solution, or set General > Platform Toolset to the installed toolset, such as v143.
2. The project must keep its toolset. Install it from the Visual Studio Installer: Individual components, MSVC build tools of that version.
3. A build server lacks the toolset. Install the same Build Tools components on the server, or pass /p:PlatformToolset=v143 to MSBuild.

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Related errors: MSB8036, C1083. See all guides.