Install and launch fixes

XIVLauncher Troubleshooting

Use this page for common XIVLauncher install, antivirus, shortcut, update, and patching problems. Start by confirming that your installer came from the official GitHub release.

Antivirus blocks XIVLauncher

The official release notes and FAQ warn that some commercial antivirus products may detect XIVLauncher or Dalamud as a false positive. First verify the official GitHub source. Then consult the official troubleshooting FAQ before whitelisting files.

Setup file does not start

  1. Confirm that you downloaded XIVLauncher-win-Setup.exe from the official release page.
  2. Check whether Windows or your browser blocked the executable.
  3. Temporarily move the file to a normal user folder such as Downloads or Desktop.
  4. Review antivirus quarantine history if the file disappeared after download.

Launcher cannot patch the game

Recent XIVLauncher maintenance releases have included fixes around patching edge cases and game directory handling. If patching fails, check whether you are on the latest release, avoid choosing unusual root directories as game paths, and review official FAQ entries before reinstalling the whole game.

Plugins break after an update

FFXIV patches can temporarily break plugins. Disable plugins, test the launcher, then wait for plugin updates if needed. Do not solve every plugin error by deleting launcher files unless the official FAQ recommends that step.

XIVLauncher is stuck in a background task

Close the launcher from its own window, then check Task Manager for a remaining XIVLauncher or FFXIV process. End only the process you recognize, reopen once, and capture the exact error before deleting folders.

If the issue started after a patch, test with Dalamud and plugins disabled and use the launcher repair or patch path before a full reinstall. Keep the dedicated patch-download and crash pages for their specific symptoms.

Fix the FFXIV unable to download patch files error Official FAQ Download guide Fix the XIVLauncher boot version error Plugin guide Plugin window and Dalamud command guide FFXIV launcher crash guide

How do I fix XIVLauncher when it is stuck in a background task?

Close the visible window, check for a recognized XIVLauncher or FFXIV process in Task Manager, end that process once, and reopen the launcher. If it returns, record the error and check the official FAQ before deleting files.

Can I repair game files instead of reinstalling?

Yes. The official XIVLauncher FAQ documents a Repair game files option in the launcher. Try that supported repair path before deleting the whole installation.

Does XIVLauncher need administrator access?

Not every action requires administrator access. Use the normal launcher flow first and only review permissions when the exact error or official guidance points to them.

What should I do if antivirus blocks XIVLauncher?

Verify the official source, review the project antivirus FAQ, and avoid unknown mirrors. Do not create a permanent exclusion until you have checked the file and the reason for the alert.