Auto-Move (Auto Run) in WoW
Auto-move, usually called auto run or autorun, keeps your character moving forward without holding a key. In World of Warcraft the Autorun keybind is Num Lock by default on Windows and Clear (Fn+6 on many keyboards) on a Mac. Press it once to start running, press it again to stop.
How auto run works
| Action | Effect on auto run |
|---|---|
| Press the Autorun key again | Stops |
| Press forward (W) or back (S) | Stops |
| Turn with the keyboard or steer with the right mouse button | Keeps running in the new direction |
| Strafe (Q / E) | Keeps running, drifting sideways |
The binding can be changed under the movement section of the key bindings menu; see keybinds for general tips. Many players move it to a thumb mouse button so they can start and stop auto run without leaving the mouse.
Other ways to move without holding keys
- Both mouse buttons. Holding the left and right mouse buttons together runs forward and steers with the mouse. It stops when you release either button.
- /follow. Target a player and type
/follow(or/fol), or use/follow PlayerName. You follow that player until you move yourself or they get too far away; following needs you to start within about 28 yards and only works on players, not NPCs. - Click-to-move. An interface option (console variable
autoInteract, off by default) that moves your character to the point or target you right-click. Players who use it mostly do so for accessibility or one-handed play. - Flight paths. In every version, taxis fly you along a fixed route; in Classic Era they are the main form of long-distance travel, since there is no flying mount.
When auto run helps
- Long travel across open zones, especially in Classic, where ground travel takes a large share of leveling time.
- Gathering routes: auto run with mouse steering leaves a hand free for the map and the minimap.
- Escort and follow quests that move at a steady pace.
- Accessibility: fewer held keys means less strain over long sessions.
- Multiboxing: a second character uses
/followon the main one; see multiboxing. Each character still needs its own key presses for actions, because Blizzard's rules ban software that automates play.
What auto run can't do
Auto run only goes forward. It doesn't avoid enemies, follow roads or stop at edges, so leaving it on near hostile mobs pulls them (see aggro range), and on a Hardcore realm an unattended run into a camp of enemies can end the character. Running into a wall leaves you running in place, and a character that keeps moving is not a reason to leave the keyboard: programs that move a character while nobody is playing count as automation and break Blizzard's rules.
Classic vs retail
| Classic Era, Anniversary | Retail (Midnight) | |
|---|---|---|
| Autorun key and behaviour | Same | Same |
| Typical use | Long ground runs between quest hubs; Classic Era has no flying | Short hops; most travel is by flying or Skyriding |
| Follow range | About 28 yards to start | About 28 yards to start |
On the Anniversary realms, which are in The Burning Crusade, flying mounts are available in Outland from level 70; in the original-game branches (Classic Era, Hardcore) and in WoW Forever at launch, auto run on the ground remains the main way to cross a zone. If you'd rather skip the long runs of a fresh character, see our WoW leveling services.
FAQ
What is the auto run key in WoW?
Num Lock on Windows and Clear on a Mac, unless you have changed it in the key bindings.
Why does my auto run stop?
Pressing forward or back, or the Autorun key again, cancels it. Turning and strafing don't.
Can I auto-follow an NPC?
No. /follow works only on players.
Related WoW terms
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- Mythic + Three Plus One Bundle
- The Venomous Abyss — Normal
- Midnight Mythic+ Keys
- Midnight Powerleveling
