As Guild Wars 2 runs, it will continually run tests of your computer's hardware by asking it to calculate a set of simple mathematical operations—such as addition and multiplication. When the game is given an incorrect answer, it can reveal a problem with your computer's processor, memory, or another piece of hardware that the game relies on to run.
Troubleshooting Hardware Errors
Hardware problems can fall into several categories. Below are just a few of the most common areas that can cause trouble, as well as steps you can take to address the problem:
Memory Failure
When your computer’s memory is damaged or defective, it may continue running normally until you begin to tax your system. Bad memory can cause crashes and other issues, which is why you should test your computer to see if that’s the problem.
- We recommend running MemTest86: a free memory-testing tool that helps diagnose problems caused by faulty RAM. Follow the instructions on this page to download and run the tool.
- To test the stability of your system, use the Prime95 benchmarking tool: an open source program that rigorously tests your computer to see if your hardware is working properly. Follow the instructions on this page to download and run the tool.
Overclocked Processor
Some players will adjust the clock rate of their processor—what is known as “overclocking”—in order to force it to perform tasks more rapidly. While your computer may function and seem stable during routine operations, overclocking your processor can cause issues when running processor-intensive applications such as Guild Wars 2.
- To test the stability of your system, use the Prime95 benchmarking tool: an open source program that rigorously tests your computer to see if your hardware is working properly. Follow the instructions on this page to download and run the tool.
Overheating
If your computer is running too hot, it can lead to issues and even damage your hardware. Take the time to verify that your computer's cooling systems are working, and that you are running your computer in a reasonably cool environment. Sometimes blowing the dust out of the cooling vents is enough to correct overheating problems. If you have a high-powered video card, you may also need additional fans to keep it properly cooled.
Underpowered or Weak Power Supply
Today's high-end video cards often require more power from your power supply in order to prevent problems. Check your video card's power requirements to determine whether your card—coupled with the other components in your computer—requires a stronger power supply.
Other Hardware Issues
If you're certain that none of these areas are causing the problem, then we encourage you to contact your computer's manufacturer for help troubleshooting the problem.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why am I seeing a hardware error?
We've worked hard to optimize Guild Wars 2 over the years, and continue to update the game to utilize modern hardware in a way that offers the best performance and graphics possible! As it stands, Guild Wars 2 is capable of delivering an amazing, smooth experience, though only if your computer hardware can keep up with the expectations you set for it.
In particular, modern video cards use more power and, consequently, run hotter than ever before. As these cards run too near their power or heat limits, they begin to make mistakes or—if pushed for a long enough time—can even damage the hardware. This is why running an application that's trying to squeeze the maximum performance out of your computer hardware can cause errors that wouldn't normally occur when performing low-intensity tasks—such as reading email or browsing the Internet.
How did Guild Wars 2 detect the hardware error?
Guild Wars 2 conducts system tests while you’re playing the game to verify that your computer is operating properly.
Whenever you run Guild Wars 2, the game will continually request answers to a set of common mathematical operations—such as addition and multiplication—from your computer, and then checks the results it provides against a table of correct answers. When the game detects an incorrect answer, it returns an error message to help you identify when there is a critical problem with your computer's processor or memory.