Installing the LargeAddressAware/”4 GB” Patch

Author: Daleterrence @ Bahamut

Do I need this?

If you are experiencing issues with either game assets such as models not loading fully, or the “black screen” issue, where you change areas and a zone does not load, it means your game is running out of memory.

Why do I need this?

These issues happen normally due to excessive HD mod use, excessive addon use, or a memory leak in an addon you’re using.

What does this do to change things?

By default, FFXI can only utilise about 2 GB of your RAM, due to limitations imposed from older operating systems. The game’s executable can be “flagged” to be allowed to use more memory space, up to a maximum of 4 GB, which is what this patcher does.

It’s worth mentioning that FFXI still cannot use all of that 4 GB and it will crash out around 3.2 GB for other engine-related issues.

Installation Steps

  1. Download the LargeAddressAware patch from here, you only need to donwload the .exe file. Put that .exe somewhere safe on your PC, as you’ll only need to download it once. I recommend putting it in your Windower or Ashita folder.
  2. Run the .exe as an administrator and click Browse.
  3. Navigate to your PlayOnline folder, by default this is C:\Program Files (x86)\PlayOnline\SquareEnix\PlayOnlineViewer, click on pol.exe within the folder and then click Patch.
  4. It should say “Patch succeeded!”. If it doesn’t, make sure you ran the patcher as admin and that the game is not currently open.
  5. You’re done!

You’ll need to do this again any time the game’s .exe is updated, which is most monthly patches.