ERROR_WOW_ASSERTION - 670 (0x29E)

Technical Meaning

The ERROR_WOW_ASSERTION error code is a specific runtime assertion failure that occurs within the Windows environment, particularly in scenarios involving compatibility layers such as WoW64 (Windows on Windows 64-bit). Assertions are checks used during development to ensure that certain conditions hold true at critical points of execution. When an assertion fails, it indicates a problem with the state or behavior of the program.

Error Details

The ERROR_WOW_ASSERTION error code is returned when an assertion within the WoW64 subsystem fails. This can happen due to various reasons such as invalid function calls, incorrect data types, or unexpected states during execution. Assertions are typically used by developers to catch bugs and ensure that the program operates correctly.

Usage Context

This error is most commonly encountered in environments where 32-bit applications run on a 64-bit version of Windows using WoW64. It can also occur in other scenarios involving compatibility layers or custom runtime checks implemented within the application itself.

Developer Interpretation

When encountering ERROR_WOW_ASSERTION, developers should consider the following:

• Assertion Failure: The program encountered an unexpected state during execution, which triggered a runtime assertion check that failed.
• Development Environment: This error is more likely to occur in development or debugging environments where assertions are enabled and used extensively.
• Compatibility Issues: In scenarios involving WoW64, this error might indicate issues with the compatibility layer or specific 32-bit application behavior.

Related Errors

• ERROR_INVALID_PARAMETER
• ERROR_BAD_EXE_FORMAT
• ERROR_STACK_OVERFLOW

FAQ

Q: What does ERROR_WOW_ASSERTION mean?

A: It indicates a runtime assertion failure within the WoW64 subsystem or an application.

Q: How can I resolve this error?

A: Review the context of the assertion and ensure that all function calls and data types are correct. Disable assertions if they are not needed in production environments.

Summary

ERROR_WOW_ASSERTION is a specific runtime assertion failure that occurs within the WoW64 subsystem or custom assertion checks. Developers should focus on ensuring proper state management and parameter validation to avoid such errors.