If your organization uses Sage 100, system performance issues can sometimes stem from an unexpected source, your antivirus software. While endpoint security is essential, overly aggressive scanning or improperly configured settings can interfere with Sage 100’s operations.

These conflicts often show up as slow performance, system lockups, or errors like “Error #0: Record/File Busy” and “Error #12: File Does Not Exist.” In some cases, antivirus software may even block installations by locking critical files. This month’s tip outlines how to identify and prevent these conflicts to keep your system running smoothly.

Tip summary: Configure exclusions for Sage 100 programs, directories, and file types

Antivirus software can unintentionally disrupt Sage 100 by scanning or locking files that the system needs to access in real time. By configuring proper exclusions for Sage 100 programs, directories, and file types, organizations can reduce performance issues and prevent common system errors.

Because these changes impact your security configuration, they should be handled carefully and ideally by an experienced IT professional.

Steps and recommended configurations:

Step 1: Perform initial troubleshooting

If you suspect antivirus interference:

• Temporarily disable the antivirus software
• Test system performance and functionality
• Check if file-locking errors or slowdowns are resolved

If performance improves, your antivirus software is likely the cause.

Important note:

• Temporarily disabling antivirus software should only be done briefly for testing purposes and in a controlled environment by qualified IT personnel. Antivirus protection should be re-enabled immediately after testing is complete. Always ensure proper safeguards are in place and that all systems and databases are fully backed up before making any changes.

Step 2: Adjust scan settings and infrastructure

• Disable continuous, on-access, or overly aggressive scanning for Sage 100 processes
• Check for hidden antivirus layers running on:
  • Network routers
  • VPN connections
  • Cloud environments
  • Virtual servers hosting Sage 100
• Add Spa.NA.Com to your trusted sites list
• Allow time for exclusions to sync if using cloud-based or multi-layered security tools

Step 3: Exclude Sage 100 program executables

Configure your antivirus software to ignore the following files:

• ..\MAS90\Home\Pvxwin32.exe
• ..\MAS90\Home\pvxiosvr.exe
• ..\MAS90\Launcher\Launch32.exe
• ..\MAS90\Launcher\Launcher.old.exe

Step 4: Apply directory exclusions

Set folder-level exclusions across your environment:

• Server:

• Exclude the entire ..\MAS90 directory (all files and subfolders)

Workstations:

• Exclude: C:\Sage\Sage 100 Workstation\
• If using Paperless Office, exclude PDF storage folders

Sage 100cloud Workstations:

• Exclude:
  • C:\Program Files (x86)\SAP BusinessObjects (Crystal Reports)
  • Common Components folder
  • Sage 100 folder in the user’s Documents
  • C:\Users\[Windows_Username]\AppData\Local\Temp\_autoupdater\

Sage Intelligence Workstations:

• Exclude the Alchemex TempFiles folder to prevent access errors

Step 5: Exclude file extensions

Configure your antivirus to bypass scanning for these file types:

.AUC, .DCL, .DD, .DDE, .DDF, .EXP, .KDF, .LCK, .LIB, .M4D, .M4L, .M4P, .M4T, .M4X, .PRM, .PVC, .PVX, .RPT, .SOA, .XEQ

Additionally:

• Exclude .SDF files for Sage Intelligence workstation operations

Why this tip matters

Antivirus conflicts are a common but often overlooked cause of Sage 100 performance issues and system errors. By properly configuring exclusions, organizations can significantly improve system speed, reduce disruptions, and ensure a smoother user experience, without compromising security.

Because these changes involve system and network-level configurations, it’s important to approach them carefully. If you need help reviewing your environment, implementing exclusions, or troubleshooting performance issues, our  Sage 100 experts are here to help. Contact our team today to ensure your system is optimized and running efficiently and be sure to check back next month for our next Sage 100 Tip of the Month.