If you’re running into network errors or can’t connect to servers in ARC Raiders Playtest, you’re not alone. Many PC players have reported seeing messages like “Unable to connect” or “Network error” when trying to play online.
These errors can occur due to unstable internet, blocked game ports, outdated network drivers, or even temporary server downtime.
This guide will show you proven methods to fix ARC Raiders Playtest connection problems and get back into smooth multiplayer action.
⚙️ Common Causes
Here are the most common reasons ARC Raiders Playtest fails to connect:
- Internet instability or weak Wi-Fi signal
- Server maintenance or outages
- Firewall or antivirus blocking the game
- Outdated or corrupted network drivers
- Incorrect DNS or IP settings
- VPN, proxy, or NAT restrictions
🛠️ Fix 1: Check ARC Raiders Server Status
Before changing anything on your PC, confirm that the game servers are online.
Steps:
- Visit ARC Raiders’ official X (Twitter), Discord, or Steam page.
- Look for any maintenance or downtime notices.
- Wait and retry later if servers are under maintenance.
✅ Result: Confirms if the issue is local or from the server side.
🛠️ Fix 2: Restart Your Router and PC
A quick network refresh can clear temporary connection issues.
Steps:
- Power off your router/modem and PC.
- Wait for 30 seconds, then restart both.
- Reconnect to your network and launch ARC Raiders Playtest again.
✅ Result: Resets your network connection and clears cached IP conflicts.
🛠️ Fix 3: Run the Game as Administrator
Running the game with admin rights ensures it has full access to the internet and system files.
Steps:
- Right-click ARC Raiders Playtest.exe.
- Select Properties → Compatibility.
- Check Run this program as an administrator.
- Click Apply → OK, and relaunch the game.
✅ Result: Solves permission-related connectivity problems.
🛠️ Fix 4: Allow the Game Through Windows Firewall
Windows Firewall may accidentally block ARC Raiders’ connection requests.
Steps:
- Press Windows + R, type
control firewall.cpl, and hit Enter. - Click Allow an app or feature through Windows Defender Firewall.
- Locate ARC Raiders Playtest and allow both Private and Public access.
- Save and close the window.
✅ Result: Ensures ARC Raiders can freely connect to online servers.
🛠️ Fix 5: Update Your Network Drivers
Outdated drivers can cause packet loss and connection drops.
Steps:
- Press Windows + X → Device Manager.
- Expand Network Adapters.
- Right-click your network adapter → Update driver → Search automatically.
- Reboot your PC once the update completes.
✅ Result: Refreshes your adapter and improves connectivity stability.
🛠️ Fix 6: Flush DNS and Reset Network Settings
Clearing DNS cache removes outdated network entries that may block connections.
Steps:
- Type cmd in Windows search, right-click Command Prompt, and choose Run as administrator.
- Run these commands one by one:
ipconfig /flushdns
ipconfig /release
ipconfig /renew
netsh winsock reset
- Restart your PC afterward.
✅ Result: Resets your network configuration and restores smooth connectivity.
🛠️ Fix 7: Disable VPN or Proxy Connections
VPNs and proxies can cause game authentication or regional connection issues.
Steps:
- Disconnect from your VPN or disable your proxy settings.
- Relaunch ARC Raiders Playtest and attempt to connect again.
✅ Result: Eliminates routing and latency issues caused by VPN tunnels.
🛠️ Fix 8: Switch to Google DNS
Using a faster DNS can reduce timeout errors and improve stability.
Steps:
- Press Windows + R, type
ncpa.cpl, and hit Enter. - Right-click your active network → Properties.
- Double-click Internet Protocol Version 4 (TCP/IPv4).
- Select Use the following DNS server addresses and enter:
- Preferred:
8.8.8.8 - Alternate:
8.8.4.4
- Preferred:
- Click OK, then restart your PC.
✅ Result: Improves server reachability and reduces lag.
🛠️ Fix 9: Check Your NAT Type
If your NAT is too strict, you may be unable to join multiplayer sessions.
Steps:
- Open your router admin panel (see router label for IP, usually
192.168.1.1). - Enable UPnP (Universal Plug and Play).
- Restart your router.
- Relaunch the game and test your connection.
✅ Result: Opens required ports automatically and stabilizes multiplayer connections.
🛠️ Fix 10: Reinstall the Game
If all else fails, a clean installation might be necessary.
Steps:
- Uninstall ARC Raiders Playtest via Steam or Control Panel.
- Reboot your PC.
- Reinstall the game on a new directory or SSD.
✅ Result: Removes broken network configuration files and restores default settings.
💡 Additional Tips
- Use a wired Ethernet connection instead of Wi-Fi.
- Avoid background downloads or streaming while playing.
- Ensure your Windows date and time are correct.
- Temporarily disable overlay apps (Discord, GeForce Experience, etc.).
- Keep your system and network drivers updated regularly.
❓ FAQs
Q1: Why do I get a “Network Error” in ARC Raiders Playtest?
A: It’s usually due to unstable internet, blocked ports, or server downtime.
Q2: Can VPNs cause connection failures?
A: Yes — VPNs often interfere with authentication or routing.
Q3: How can I reduce ping or lag?
A: Use Google DNS, disable background apps, and play via Ethernet.
Q4: Is the ARC Raiders server currently down?
A: Check the game’s official social pages or Steam for real-time updates.
🎯 Conclusion
If you’re struggling with network or connection issues in ARC Raiders Playtest, the cause is usually linked to your internet setup or system configuration.
By following the fixes above — from checking server status to updating drivers, flushing DNS, and allowing the game through your firewall — you can quickly resolve most network problems.
Once fixed, you’ll be able to rejoin ARC Raiders’ thrilling online battles and enjoy uninterrupted multiplayer gameplay.
