Many players of New World: Aeternum experience network or online multiplayer errors on PC. You may see messages like:
- “Unable to connect to server”
- “Connection timed out”
- “Network error: failed to join world”
These issues usually occur due to unstable internet connections, server maintenance, firewall or antivirus interference, or outdated network drivers.
This guide will help you troubleshoot and fix network issues so you can enjoy seamless online gameplay in New World: Aeternum.
⚙️ Common Causes
- Unstable or slow internet connection
- Windows Firewall or antivirus blocking the game
- Server maintenance or downtime
- Outdated network adapter drivers
- VPN or proxy conflicts
- Corrupted game files or Steam cache
🛠️ Fix 1: Check New World Server Status
Sometimes, network errors occur because servers are offline or under maintenance.
Steps:
- Visit the official New World server status page: https://www.newworld.com/en-us/support
- Check if your region’s servers are online.
- Wait until servers are back online if maintenance is in progress.
✅ Result: Confirms whether the problem is on your side or server-side.
🛠️ Fix 2: Restart Your Router and PC
Refreshing your network connection can resolve connectivity issues.
Steps:
- Turn off your PC and router.
- Unplug the router for 30–60 seconds.
- Plug it back in and wait for a stable connection.
- Restart your PC and launch the game.
✅ Result: Resets network settings and resolves temporary connectivity issues.
🛠️ Fix 3: Verify Game Files
Corrupted or missing files may prevent proper server connection.
Steam Steps:
- Open Steam → Library.
- Right-click New World → Properties → Installed Files.
- Click Verify Integrity of Game Files.
✅ Result: Repairs damaged files to ensure proper multiplayer functionality.
🛠️ Fix 4: Disable VPN or Proxy
VPNs and proxies can interfere with New World’s connection to its servers.
Steps:
- Disconnect from any active VPN.
- Disable proxy in Windows:
- Windows + I → Network & Internet → Proxy → Turn off Use a proxy server
- Relaunch New World.
✅ Result: Eliminates connection routing issues caused by VPNs or proxies.
🛠️ Fix 5: Update Network Drivers
Outdated or faulty network drivers can cause multiplayer errors.
Steps:
- Press Windows + X → Device Manager → Network adapters.
- Right-click your adapter → Update Driver → Search automatically.
- Alternatively, download the latest driver from your manufacturer (Intel, Realtek, or AMD).
✅ Result: Ensures a stable network connection for online gameplay.
🛠️ Fix 6: Allow New World Through Firewall and Antivirus
Security software can block the game’s connection to servers.
Steps:
- Windows Firewall:
- Windows + I → Settings → Update & Security → Windows Security → Firewall & network protection → Allow an app through firewall
- Add NewWorldLauncher.exe and NewWorld.exe
- Antivirus: Add both executables to the exclusion list or temporarily disable real-time protection.
✅ Result: Prevents security software from interrupting server communication.
🛠️ Fix 7: Reset Winsock and TCP/IP
Network stack issues can prevent online connections.
Steps:
- Press Windows + X → Windows Terminal (Admin).
- Run the following commands one by one:
netsh winsock reset netsh int ip reset ipconfig /release ipconfig /renew ipconfig /flushdns - Restart your PC and launch the game.
✅ Result: Fixes corrupted network settings and restores proper connectivity.
🛠️ Fix 8: Reinstall the Game (Last Resort)
If all else fails, reinstalling ensures a clean installation.
Steps:
- Uninstall New World via Steam.
- Delete remaining folders in
C:\Program Files (x86)\Steam\steamapps\common\New World. - Reinstall the game on a stable drive (preferably SSD).
✅ Result: Eliminates corrupted files or misconfigurations affecting online multiplayer.
💡 Additional Tips
- Use a wired Ethernet connection for stability.
- Avoid launching other heavy applications while playing.
- Restart Steam in Administrator mode if issues persist.
- Keep your Windows and Steam client updated.
- Join servers closest to your region for optimal ping.
❓ FAQs
Q1: Why can’t I connect to New World servers?
A: It may be due to server downtime, firewall restrictions, or network instability.
Q2: Can VPNs cause multiplayer errors?
A: Yes. Disconnect VPNs or proxies to avoid server connection issues.
Q3: Will updating network drivers help?
A: Yes, outdated drivers often cause unstable online connectivity.
Q4: Do I need to reinstall the game to fix network errors?
A: Only if corrupted files or misconfigurations persist after other fixes.
🎯 Conclusion
New World: Aeternum network errors usually arise from unstable internet connections, firewall/antivirus interference, or corrupted game/network files.
By restarting your network, updating drivers, disabling VPNs, and verifying game files, you can resolve most multiplayer issues. For persistent problems, resetting network settings or reinstalling the game ensures a clean, stable setup.
Follow these steps carefully, and you’ll be back exploring Aeternum online with smooth, uninterrupted gameplay.
