What is OAWrapper.exe (Application Error) & How to Delete it

Published by Nyau Wai Hoe - Updated on

Many people using Windows computers notice different programs running in the background. One of these is OAWrapper.exe, linked to NVIDIA, a big name in technology. You might see it in Task Manager, doing its thing without much fuss. But sometimes, it acts up, using too much computer power or even crashing with an “OAWrapper.exe Application Error” message.

This guide talks about what OAWrapper.exe does, the problems it might cause, and how to fix or manage it.

What is OAWrapper.exe

What is OAWrapper.exe (OpenAutomate Wrapper)?

OAWrapper.exe is part of NVIDIA’s big software world, especially within the NVIDIA GeForce Experience Application Ontology. NVIDIA makes awesome graphics cards and software. “OAWrapper” stands for OpenAutomate Wrapper, which is like a set of rules for talking to graphics programs. OAWrapper.exe helps NVIDIA software communicate with lots of different graphics apps.

So, think of OAWrapper.exe as the middleman that helps NVIDIA software get along with all sorts of graphics apps, making sure things like picture quality and power use are just right for a great experience.

Also see: NVIDIA Web Helper.exe Service: Should I Disable it?

Where is OAWrapper.exe located?

Every program on your computer lives in a specific location, and you can find OAWrapper.exe usually under a folder in your user profile. It’s usually at: C:\Users\USERNAME\AppData\Local\NVIDIA\NvBackend\ApplicationOntology\.

Where is OAWrapper.exe locatedKnowing this location is important, especially if you’re trying to fix a problem with it or check it for viruses.

Useful guide: How to Know Which App is Using The Internet in Windows 11

How to fix OAWrapper.exe Application Error

OAWrapper.exe might sometimes show an “Application Error” message. This could happen for many reasons, like software clashes, a messed-up OAWrapper.exe file, or outdated NVIDIA software.

OAWrapper.exe Application Error
Here’s how to fix it:

  1. NVIDIA often updates its software to fix problems and improve things. Always make sure your NVIDIA GeForce Experience is up to date.
  2. If updating doesn’t help, try reinstalling the software. First, you have to remove NVIDIA GeForce Experience from your system.Uninstall NVIDIA GeForce Experience Windows
    Then, go to NVIDIA’s website, download the latest GeForce Experience, and install it. This can fix any file issues.Download NVIDIA GeForce Experience
  3. Sometimes, a virus pretending to be OAWrapper.exe causes trouble. To check, use a good antivirus program to scan your computer.

Linked process: What is NVContainer.exe, Its Errors and Why is it Blocked

OAWrapper.exe causes high CPU or memory usage

Normally, OAWrapper.exe doesn’t use much of your computer’s power. But sometimes, it might use a lot because of bugs or a virus pretending to be it.

OAWrapper.exe high CPU and Memory Usage
For this problem, you can try the same fixes: update or reinstall NVIDIA GeForce Experience, and scan your computer for viruses. If it’s still not working right, you might need to ask NVIDIA for help.

Handy guide: GPU 100% Usage When Idle or Gaming (Good or Bad)

Is OAWrapper.exe a virus or malware?

Normally, OAWrapper.exe is safe and part of NVIDIA GeForce Experience. But, viruses can pretend to be real programs like OAWrapper.exe.

To make sure it’s the real deal, check where it locates on your computer. If it’s not in the NVIDIA folder, it might be a virus. If you’re worried, run a full virus scan with a good antivirus, like Windows Defender.

How to delete OAWrapper.exe

Thinking about deleting OAWrapper.exe? Be careful, because it’s an important part of NVIDIA’s software. But if it’s causing big problems and you’re sure it’s not a virus, here’s what you can do:

  1. You can remove the software through the add/remove program feature in Windows. This should also get rid of OAWrapper.exe. But remember, uninstalling GeForce Experience might stop automatic updates for your graphics card and affect how well it works.How to delete OAWrapper.exe
  2. If it’s still there after uninstalling, you can delete OAWrapper.exe yourself. But this might mess up any other NVIDIA software you have.

Related resource: How to Delete a Service in Windows 11 or 10 Using CMD

To put it simply

OAWrapper.exe plays a key role in NVIDIA’s software, making sure it works well with various graphics apps. While it might cause some problems like using too much power or giving error messages, these issues can often be fixed by keeping the software up to date or reinstalling NVIDIA Software.

Though you can remove the OAWrapper.exe file or uninstall NVIDIA GeForce Experience, this could affect your graphics card’s performance and the smooth running of your NVIDIA software, along with driver updates. So, think carefully before you decide to remove it.


Nyau Wai Hoe
Nyau Wai Hoe is the Founder and Chief Editor of WindowsDigitals.com. With a degree in software engineering and over 12 years of experience in the tech support industry, Nyau has established himself as an expert in the field, with a primary focus on the Microsoft Windows operating system. As a tech enthusiast, he loves exploring new technologies and leveraging them to solve real-life problems.

Share via
Copy link