We are currently in the process of compiling patch 4.3.2 issues and methods to resolve them. Check the list below for a potential solution to the issue you are experiencing, along with some other tips to avoid patching issues.
Only start World of Warcraft with the "Launcher.exe" when you are fully patched and the game is playable.
Most of the errors and anomalies that some users are experiencing are caused by not starting World of Warcraft with the "Launcher.exe" that is found inside the World of Warcraft folder. Using the Launcher is required for proper patching. Renaming/deleting the launcher or using alternative means of starting World of Warcraft may result in corrupted data and large additional downloads of data. If you suspect that your Launcher.exe is modified or deleted, run the repair tool that is found in your World of Warcraft folder to repair it.
"Internal Error" during tools patch.
This issue appears to primarily be caused by permission issues such as security programs mistakenly blocking the patching process. First try running the repair tool, then try running the game in administrator mode to overcome the block. If necessary, we recommend temporarily uninstalling your security software or contacting your security software's tech support for assistance in rectifying the block. Simply disabling most security programs will not prevent them from interfering with the patching process.
Launcher seems stuck at "Connecting to patch services"
Although it may seem stuck, the Launcher is actually downloading a very large file at this point in the process. Please be patient and avoid closing the Launcher as it downloads the data; failure to do so may result in corrupted data and a large additional download.
Do not manually run the Background Downloader
Running the Background Downloader before the Optimization process is complete will require you to redownload all of the World of Warcraft data, which is a very large download. Manual use of the Background Downloader should be limited to very specific troubleshooting circumstances.
Do not start World of Warcraft via WoW.exe.
Bypassing the Launcher by using the WoW.exe file before the Optimization process is complete will result in corrupted data and a lengthy download. WoW.exe is not meant for regular use, and should only be utilized in specific troubleshooting circumstances.
AddOn Manager programs (Curse Client, etc.) can block the Optimization process
Having an AddOn manager program installed can cause the optimization process to stall or error out as programs of this type often block access to some of your WoW files. Try temporarily uninstalling any AddOn managers until you are fully patched and playable. These symptoms are the same as those that can be caused by improperly configured security software.
Launcher closes with "Connection Timed Out" message
A DNS flush may help with this issue. First, try Step 2 (IP Release/Renew, Flush DNS) on our Connection Troubleshooting page. If the message persists, move on to Step 3 (Power Cycle the Modem and Router). Some security programs may prevent this resolution from working.
Error 1 Message While Patching
We've seen two different situations with Error 1 and patch 4.3.2. Some of them are specifically caused by a security program called "Net Nanny", and can be resolved with the temporary removal of this third-party software. Unfortunately, for cases not caused by "Net Nanny" the only solution we have at this time is a full uninstall and reinstall of the game client.
"Your game installation is damaged. Please run Repair"
Although this error can be caused by AddOn manager programs tricking WoW into thinking its files are damaged (see above), it can also be caused by genuine file corruption. If you are not running any AddOn manager programs, try the following procedure:
- Go into the World of Warcraft folder
- Delete the contents of the Temp and Updates folders
- Delete the Launcher.exe
- Run the Repair.exe and allow the process to complete
- Run the Background Downloader, but cancel it after about 30 seconds
- Run the new Launcher.exe (If on Vista or 7, right-click the Launcher and select Run as Administrator)
- Allow everything to patch normally
If All Else Fails
if the troubleshooting steps on this page and on our Technical Support Forums do not resolve the issue, an uninstall and reinstall of your game may be required. We understand that having to uninstall and reinstall a game is never an ideal solution, but it should resolve the issue.
Up-to-date information and discussion of Patch 4.3.2 issues can be found on our Technical Support Forums. We greatly encourage posting any unusual patching issues you may encounter on the forums for tracking and investigation.
We have a main article for the World of Warcraft Optimization process.
You may also find the additional patch troubleshooting page useful for your specific situation.
If your issue persists, please consult the Technical Support Forums or contact us and attach your system files to the ticket.
