Fix ARC Raiders Network / Connection Error on PC (2025 Guide)

If you’re facing a network or connection error while trying to play ARC Raiders on PC, you’re not alone. Many players have reported issues such as “Unable to connect to server”, “Network timed out”, or “Connection lost” during matchmaking or gameplay.

These problems can happen because of unstable internet connections, server outages, firewall blocks, or incorrect network configurations. However, the good news is that you can fix most of these issues by following a few practical steps.

In this guide, we’ll walk you through all the tested solutions to fix ARC Raiders’ network and connection errors in 2025.

---

⚙️ Common Causes of Network Errors

Before applying any fix, it’s helpful to understand what might be causing the issue. Here are the most common reasons behind ARC Raiders connection errors:

• Unstable or slow internet connection
• Server downtime or maintenance
• Firewall or antivirus blocking the game
• Incorrect DNS configuration
• Outdated network drivers
• VPN or proxy interference
• Background applications consuming bandwidth

---

Fix 1: Check ARC Raiders Server Status

Sometimes, the issue isn’t on your end. If ARC Raiders servers are down for maintenance or updates, you’ll experience connection errors.

Steps:

1. Visit the official ARC Raiders Twitter or website for maintenance announcements.
2. Alternatively, check real-time server status using Downdetector.
3. If servers are down, wait until they’re restored before trying again.

✅ Result: Confirms whether the problem lies with your PC or the game servers.

---

Fix 2: Restart Your Router and PC

It might sound simple, but a quick restart can refresh your connection and clear temporary glitches.

Steps:

1. Turn off your router and PC.
2. Wait at least 60 seconds.
3. Power them back on and reconnect to the internet.

✅ Result: Restores stable connectivity and resolves minor network dropouts.

---

Fix 3: Run ARC Raiders as Administrator

Running the game with administrative privileges ensures it can communicate freely with servers.

Steps:

1. Right-click ARC Raiders.exe or its shortcut.
2. Select Properties → Compatibility tab.
3. Check Run this program as an administrator → Click Apply.
4. Launch the game again.

✅ Result: Grants full permissions to access network features.

---

Fix 4: Disable VPN or Proxy Services

VPNs and proxies can sometimes interfere with online connectivity or cause regional mismatches.

Steps:

1. If you’re using a VPN, disconnect it temporarily.
2. Go to Windows Settings → Network & Internet → Proxy.
3. Turn off both “Use a proxy server” and “Automatically detect settings” if enabled.

✅ Result: Ensures ARC Raiders connects directly to its servers without routing delays.

---

Fix 5: Allow ARC Raiders Through Firewall

Windows Defender or third-party firewalls may block ARC Raiders’ online access.

Steps:

1. Open Control Panel → System and Security → Windows Defender Firewall.
2. Click Allow an app or feature through Windows Defender Firewall.
3. Locate ARC Raiders in the list.
4. Enable both Private and Public network checkboxes.
5. Click OK to save.

✅ Result: Prevents the firewall from blocking the game’s server requests.

---

Fix 6: Update Network Drivers

Outdated network drivers can lead to connectivity drops or packet loss.

Steps:

1. Press Windows + X → Device Manager.
2. Expand Network Adapters.
3. Right-click your active adapter → Update driver → Search automatically.
4. Restart your PC after updating.

✅ Result: Improves connection stability and reduces disconnection issues.

---

Fix 7: Flush DNS and Reset Network Settings

DNS cache corruption often causes failed connections. Flushing it helps refresh your network setup.

Steps:

1. Press Windows + R, type cmd, and press Ctrl + Shift + Enter to open Command Prompt as admin.
2. Run the following commands one by one: ipconfig /flushdns ipconfig /release ipconfig /renew netsh winsock reset
3. Restart your PC after executing all commands.

✅ Result: Clears old DNS data and rebuilds your internet connection settings.

---

Fix 8: Use Google DNS Servers

Switching to Google DNS can improve speed and reliability.

Steps:

1. Press Windows + R, type ncpa.cpl, and press Enter.
2. Right-click your active network → Properties.
3. Select Internet Protocol Version 4 (TCP/IPv4) → Properties.
4. Choose Use the following DNS server addresses and enter: Preferred: 8.8.8.8 Alternate: 8.8.4.4
5. Click OK to apply.

✅ Result: Ensures faster DNS resolution and reduces lag during online sessions.

---

Fix 9: Disable Background Apps

Applications like Steam downloads, browsers, or cloud sync tools can hog bandwidth.

Steps:

1. Press Ctrl + Shift + Esc to open Task Manager.
2. Go to the Processes tab.
3. End tasks that consume high network usage (e.g., Chrome, OneDrive, or Windows Update).

✅ Result: Frees up bandwidth for ARC Raiders to maintain a steady connection.

---

Fix 10: Reinstall the Game (Last Resort)

If nothing else works, a fresh reinstall can solve deeply rooted issues.

Steps:

1. Uninstall ARC Raiders via Steam or Epic Games.
2. Delete leftover files from: C:\Program Files (x86)\Steam\steamapps\common\ARC Raiders
3. Reinstall the game and restart your PC.

✅ Result: Removes corrupted configuration files that may cause network failure.

---

💡 Additional Tips

• Avoid using mobile hotspots or shared Wi-Fi networks.
• Temporarily disable antivirus software to test connectivity.
• Always keep your Windows OS updated.
• Try connecting via Ethernet cable instead of Wi-Fi for stable performance.

---

❓ FAQs

Q1: Why does ARC Raiders keep showing a connection error?
A: It could be due to unstable internet, blocked firewall permissions, or temporary server outages.

Q2: Can using a VPN fix connection errors?
A: In most cases, VPNs cause more issues than they fix. It’s best to play without them.

Q3: What if my internet works fine with other games?
A: Try verifying ARC Raiders’ files or checking for regional server maintenance.

Q4: Will reinstalling help fix the network issue?
A: Yes, if the problem comes from corrupted configuration or cache files.

---

🎯 Conclusion

Network or connection errors in ARC Raiders are frustrating, but they can usually be fixed by adjusting your firewall, DNS, and network configurations.

Start by checking the server status and ensuring your internet connection is stable. Then, move on to flushing DNS, updating drivers, and disabling VPNs.

After following these solutions, you should be able to reconnect to ARC Raiders’ servers smoothly and enjoy a stable online experience.