Helldivers 2 Error Codes and How to Fix Them (2026)

Helldivers 2 throws more error codes than most games combined. From the dreaded “Failed to Join” messages to random disconnects mid-mission, connection errors have been a constant problem since launch. This guide covers every major Helldivers 2 error code as of February 2026, what each one means, and how to fix it.

Quick Fix

For any Helldivers 2 connection error, try this first:

1. Restart the game completely (close through Task Manager, not just the menu).
2. Check the Helldivers 2 server status at the official Arrowhead Discord or downdetector.com.
3. If servers are up, restart your router by unplugging it for 30 seconds.

Most Helldivers 2 errors are server-side. If the servers are having issues, no local fix will help. Wait 15-30 minutes and try again.

Common Helldivers 2 Error Codes and Fixes

Error Code: Failed to Join Game / Matchmaking Failed

What it means: The game could not connect you to a multiplayer session.

Fixes:

1. Try joining from the Quickplay menu instead of a friend invite.
2. Have the host restart their mission lobby.
3. Disable crossplay in settings, then re-enable it.
4. Verify game files through Steam (Properties then Installed Files then Verify).
5. If on PC, temporarily disable your firewall and try again.

Error Code: Connection Timed Out

What it means: Your connection to the game server dropped during loading or gameplay.

Fixes:

1. Switch from Wi-Fi to a wired Ethernet connection.
2. Flush your DNS: Open Command Prompt as Admin, run ipconfig /flushdns.
3. Change your DNS to Cloudflare: 1.1.1.1 and 1.0.0.1.
4. Close all bandwidth-heavy applications (streams, downloads, cloud sync).
5. Restart your router.

Error Code: Login Failed / Authentication Error

What it means: The game could not verify your account with the servers.

Fixes:

1. Restart the game and wait on the title screen for 30-60 seconds before pressing anything.
2. Check if Steam is running properly (restart Steam completely).
3. Verify your game files.
4. If you recently changed your Steam password, log out and back in.

Error Code: Session Full

What it means: The lobby you tried to join already has 4 players.

Fix: This is not a bug. Helldivers 2 lobbies hold a maximum of 4 players. Try Quickplay to find an open session.

Error Code: Server at Capacity

What it means: The Helldivers 2 servers are overloaded and cannot accept more players.

Fix: Wait and retry. This typically happens during peak hours, new content drops, and major order events. Arrowhead has increased server capacity multiple times since launch.

Fix 1: Verify Game Files

Corrupted files cause crashes and connection errors that look like server issues.

1. Open Steam and go to your Library.
2. Right-click Helldivers 2 and select Properties.
3. Go to Installed Files tab.
4. Click Verify integrity of game files.
5. Restart Steam after verification completes.

Fix 2: Update GPU Drivers

Outdated GPU drivers can cause Helldivers 2 to crash mid-mission, which triggers disconnection errors.

NVIDIA: Update to the latest Game Ready driver through GeForce Experience.

AMD: Update through AMD Radeon Software to version 24.12.1 or newer.

Restart your PC after updating.

Fix 3: Run as Administrator

Running the game with elevated permissions can resolve certain network permission errors.

1. Navigate to the Helldivers 2 installation folder in Steam:

steamapps\common\Helldivers 2\bin\

1. Right-click helldivers2.exe and select Properties.
2. Go to the Compatibility tab.
3. Check Run this program as an administrator.
4. Click Apply then OK.

Fix 4: Disable Crossplay (Temporary)

Crossplay matchmaking is the source of many connection errors.

1. In the Helldivers 2 main menu, go to Options.
2. Navigate to Gameplay settings.
3. Set Crossplay to Off.
4. Try connecting again.

If this fixes your issue, the problem is specifically with cross-platform matchmaking rather than your connection. Re-enable crossplay after playing a session to see if the issue persists.

Fix 5: Port Forwarding

Helldivers 2 uses specific network ports that your router might be blocking.

1. Open your router admin page (usually 192.168.1.1 or 192.168.0.1 in your browser).
2. Find the Port Forwarding section.
3. Add rules for these ports: TCP: 27015, 27036 and UDP: 27015, 27031-27036
4. Save and restart your router.

If you cannot find port forwarding in your router settings, try enabling UPnP (Universal Plug and Play) instead. This allows games to open ports automatically.

Fix 6: Reset Network Stack

A full network reset can resolve persistent connection errors.

1. Open Command Prompt as Administrator.
2. Run these commands in order:

• netsh winsock reset
• netsh int ip reset
• ipconfig /flushdns
• ipconfig /release
• ipconfig /renew

1. Restart your PC.

This completely resets your Windows network configuration. You may need to reconnect to your Wi-Fi network afterward.

Fix 7: Check for Game Updates

Outdated game versions cannot connect to current servers.

1. Open Steam.
2. Right-click Helldivers 2 and check for updates.
3. If an update is available, install it before trying to play.

Arrowhead releases patches frequently, and running an old version will cause connection errors with players on the latest build.

When the Problem Is Not on Your End

Helldivers 2 server issues are common, especially during peak times and content updates. Before spending time troubleshooting, check:

1. Arrowhead Studios Discord – they post server status updates in real time.
2. downdetector.com/status/helldivers-2 – shows player-reported outages.
3. Reddit r/Helldivers – community reports of widespread issues.

If thousands of players are reporting the same error at the same time, it is a server-side issue. No local fix will help. Wait for Arrowhead to resolve it.

FAQ

Is Helldivers 2 always online?

Yes. Helldivers 2 requires a constant internet connection for both solo and multiplayer gameplay. There is no offline mode.

Why do I get disconnected mid-mission?

Mid-mission disconnects are usually caused by unstable internet connections or server-side issues. Switch to a wired connection, close background applications, and check server status.

Does Helldivers 2 have dedicated servers?

Helldivers 2 uses a hybrid system with dedicated servers for matchmaking and peer-to-peer connections for gameplay. This means the host player’s connection quality affects everyone in the session.

Can a VPN help with Helldivers 2 connection errors?

Potentially, if your ISP has poor routing to the game servers. Try connecting through a VPN server close to your location. However, if the servers themselves are at capacity, a VPN will not help.

Do mods cause connection errors in Helldivers 2?

Mods are not officially supported in Helldivers 2 and can trigger anti-cheat detection, leading to disconnections and errors. Remove all mods if you are experiencing connection issues.