Quick Summary
The error "WOW64.dll is missing" indicates that a critical system file, required for running 32-bit applications on a 64-bit Windows operating system, is either missing or corrupted. This prevents the system from properly executing 32-bit programs, leading to application failures and potential system instability.
Common Causes
- File Corruption: The WOW64.dll file may have become corrupted due to disk errors, incomplete software installations, malware infections, or sudden system shutdowns. Corruption can render the file unreadable or unusable by the operating system.
- Accidental Deletion: The file might have been accidentally deleted by the user or a third-party program. While uncommon, this can occur, especially if users are attempting to clean unnecessary files or uninstall applications incorrectly.
- Malware Infection: Certain types of malware can target and either delete or corrupt system files, including WOW64.dll. The malware can modify or replace the original file with a malicious version, leading to the error.
- Operating System Errors: In rare cases, errors within the operating system itself, such as registry corruption or file system inconsistencies, can lead to the WOW64.dll file becoming inaccessible or incorrectly recognized.
Step-by-Step Fixes
Method 1: Run System File Checker (SFC)
Step 1: Open the Command Prompt as an administrator. Type 'cmd' in the Windows search bar, right-click 'Command Prompt', and select 'Run as administrator'.
Step 2: In the Command Prompt window, type the command 'sfc /scannow' and press Enter.
Step 3: The System File Checker will scan all protected system files and replace corrupted files with a cached copy. This process may take some time.
Step 4: After the scan is complete, restart your computer.
Method 2: Run DISM (Deployment Image Servicing and Management)
Step 1: Open the Command Prompt as an administrator (as described in the SFC method).
Step 2: In the Command Prompt window, type the following command and press Enter: 'DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /RestoreHealth'
Step 3: DISM will use Windows Update to provide the files required to fix corruptions. This process may take some time, especially if your internet connection is slow. It might appear stuck, allow the process to complete.
Step 4: After DISM completes, restart your computer and then run SFC again.
Method 3: Perform a System Restore
Step 1: Type 'system restore' in the Windows search bar and select 'Create a restore point'.
Step 2: In the System Properties window, click the 'System Restore...' button.
Step 3: Choose a restore point from a date before you started experiencing the error. If prompted, scan for affected programs before proceeding.
Step 4: Follow the on-screen instructions to complete the System Restore process. Your computer will restart.
Method 4: Scan for Malware
Step 1: Download and install a reputable anti-malware program (e.g., Malwarebytes, Norton, McAfee). Ensure it is up-to-date with the latest definitions.
Step 2: Run a full system scan with the anti-malware program.
Step 3: Follow the anti-malware program's instructions to remove any detected malware. Restart your computer after the scan and removal process are complete.
Method 5: Copy the file from another computer (Advanced)
Step 1: Locate a working Windows computer with the same operating system version (e.g., Windows 10 64-bit).
Step 2: Open File Explorer and navigate to C:\Windows\SysWOW64.
Step 3: Copy the 'WOW64.dll' file from the healthy computer.
Step 4: On the affected computer, boot into Safe Mode (Restart PC, hold Shift key while restarting. Troubleshoot -> Advanced -> Startup Settings -> Restart, then press 4 for Safe Mode).
Step 5: Navigate to C:\Windows\SysWOW64 and paste the copied 'WOW64.dll' file, overwriting the existing file if prompted.
Step 6: Restart your computer normally.
Disclaimer: This method requires access to another computer with a working copy of the file. Use caution when dealing with system files.