How can I fix WOW64.dll error

windows-7 windows dll

37,034

Solution 1

I started experiencing the WOW64.DLL error when my Windows updates failed. I spent a total of 9 hours battling this issue as no application or internet browser launched causing more frustration. I finally resolved this issue with the following steps:

Procure a copy of WOW64.DLL located at C:\Windows\System32 from a different Windows 7 PC (I used a friend's PC). Copy it to a USB drive.
Restart your PC in Safe Mode (press the F8 key during the boot process).
Navigate to C:\Windows\System32, right-click on Wow64.dll and select Properties.
Within the Wow64.dll Properties window, go to the Security tab and click on Advanced.
Go to the Owner tab and change the Owner to Administrators (the current owner normally would be TrustedInstaller). Alternatively, this can also be achieved using an elevated Command Prompt:
- Within the elevated Command Prompt, navigate to C:\Windows\System32
- Enter the following command:
```
TAKEOWN /F WOW64.DLL
```
  You should receive a confirmation message saying "SUCCESS: The file (or folder): "filename" now owned by user "Computer Name\User name"."
- Upon success, enter the following command:
```
ICACLS WOW64.DLL /grant administrators:F
```
Delete or move your current Wow64.dll to a different folder.
Copy the external copy of Wow64.dll (from step 1 above) to your system's C:\Windows\System32 folder.
Restart your PC normally.

These steps resolved my issue.

Solution 2

Try using opening the command prompt with administrative privileges and run

sfc /scannow

Solution 3

I had the same issue and all of provided instructions did not work. What worked for me is to finish all the updates.

37,034

Himanshu

Updated on September 18, 2022

Comments

Himanshu over 1 year

My system shows an error message;

C:\Windows\system32\wow64.dll is either not designed to run on windows or it contains an error. Try installing the program again using the original installation media or contact your system administrator or the software vendor for support.

This message appears when trying to open all programs, internet explorer, windows live, office suite programs etc.

How can I fix this?
- CharlieRB over 11 years
  
  I have edited your question to remove your contact information as it is not allowed per the faq. Also, do not put personal contact information in your posts.
- CharlieRB over 11 years
  
  Now for my comment; what have you tried or researched on this? Run any scans? Restore to a previous time? Safe Mode work?
- Himanshu over 11 years
  
  @CharlieRB..I have performed restoration, ran sfc / scannow but still problem persists. Please help me.Thanks.
- Ramhound over 11 years
  
  Based on this error I would just reinstall Windows.
Himanshu over 11 years

I have performed restoration, ran sfc / scannow but problem still persists. Please help me.Thanks.
Pincopallino over 11 years

Try to boot into safe mode (hit F8 repeatedly when the system boots, or hold it) and run sfc /scannow from here. Try also regsvr32 /s wow64.dll
Himanshu over 11 years

I have reinstalled the windows. Everything is perfect now. Thanks.
Himanshu over 11 years

I have reinstalled the windows. Everything is perfect now. Thanks.