As World of Warcraft continues its legendary reign, occasional performance glitches, like the WOW-64.exe Application Error, can disrupt the gaming experience. This guide will work as your compass, offering solutions to troubleshoot and eliminate this persistent error.
From clearing game caches to resolving antivirus conflicts and repairing corrupted files, each step is designed to bring back the seamless joy of exploring Azeroth. Let’s dive into the solutions and restore your World of Warcraft adventure.
What causes wow-64.exe error?
The Wow-64.exe Application Error in World of Warcraft can stem from various factors. Understanding these potential causes is crucial for effective troubleshooting. Here are common triggers for the Wow-64.exe Application Error:
Reason 1: Corrupted Game Cache
The Wow-64.exe Application Error may occur when the game’s cache becomes corrupted. The cache stores temporary data used by the game, and if it gets damaged due to various factors such as abrupt shutdowns or file errors, it can lead to the application error.
To resolve this, users can navigate to the World of Warcraft installation folder and delete the Cache and potentially the WTF folders. This action forces the game to recreate these folders with fresh, non-corrupted data, often resolving the error.
Reason 2: Antivirus Interference
Third-party antivirus programs, notably AVG or Avast, may interfere with the normal execution of the game’s executable file (Wow.exe), causing the Wow-64.exe Application Error.
Antivirus tools can sometimes mistakenly flag legitimate game files as threats, leading to crashes. Users facing this issue can address it by either temporarily disabling or uninstalling the antivirus software.
Alternatively, adding the game’s executable or the entire World of Warcraft folder to the antivirus exception list ensures that the security software doesn’t interfere with the game’s operations.
Reason 3: Corrupted Executable Files (WoW.exe and Wow-64.exe)
The executable files WoW.exe and Wow-64.exe, essential for launching World of Warcraft, might become corrupted due to various reasons. This corruption can result in the Wow-64.exe Application Error.
To rectify this, users can navigate to the game’s installation folder, locate these executable files, and delete them. Subsequently, using the Scan and Repair function in the Battle.net launcher helps replace the deleted files with fresh, functional copies.
This process not only addresses issues with the executables but also ensures that any other missing or corrupt files are replaced during the repair process.
Understanding these underlying causes empowers players to choose the appropriate solution for resolving the Wow-64.exe Application Error and enjoy a smoother gaming experience in World of Warcraft.
How to fix wow-64.exe application error?
So, here are three ways to fix the Wow-64.exe Application Error in World of Warcraft:
Method 1: Clearing Corrupted Game Cache
Navigate to the World of Warcraft installation folder.
- Delete the Cache folder and potentially the WTF folder.
- Ensure the game launcher is closed.
- Restart the game and check if the wow-64.exe error persists. If needed, repeat the process for the WTF folder.
To find “WTF” and “Cache” Folders in World of Warcraft:
WTF Folder:
Navigate to the World of Warcraft installation folder (usually Local Disk > Program Files or Program Files x86).
Look for the “WTF” folder inside the installation directory.
This folder contains configuration files and settings related to your in-game preferences.
Cache Folder:
Follow the same steps to reach the World of Warcraft installation folder.
Locate the “Cache” folder within the installation directory.
The “Cache” folder stores temporary data that the game uses to improve performance.
Method 2: Addressing Antivirus Interference
Open the interface of your third-party antivirus program (e.g., AVG, Avast). Navigate to the Exceptions/Exception settings, typically found in different locations depending on the antivirus program.
Examples:
Kaspersky Internet Security: Start > Settings > Advanced > Threats & Exceptions > Exceptions > Trusted Application Definitions > Add.
AVG: Start > Settings > Components > Web Protection > Exceptions.
Avast: Start > Settings > General > Exceptions.
- Add the Wow.exe executable file from the World of Warcraft installation folder to the antivirus exception list.
- Alternatively, right-click on the WoW shortcut, choose Open File Location, and add the executable.
- Confirm your selection and check if the wow-64.exe Error is resolved.
Method 3: Replacing Corrupted Executable Files
- Navigate to the World of Warcraft installation folder.
- Locate and delete the executable files WoW.exe and Wow-64.exe.
- Open the Battle.net launcher and go to the World of Warcraft pane.
- Click on Options and find the Scan and Repair button.
- Click Begin Scan to initiate the repair process.
- After completion, reopen World of Warcraft and check if the error persists.
- This process may involve downloading and reinstalling files, including the previously deleted executables.
By following these three main solutions, users can address the Wow-64.exe Application Error and restore the seamless gaming experience in World of Warcraft.
Related Topic: Fixed: Winword.EXE Application Error
