Are you staring at Error Code 213 in Escape From Tarkov, feeling completely locked out of your raid preparations? Trust me, I’ve been there too. That frustrating “Error connecting to auth server” message can bring your gaming session to a screeching halt, especially when you’re all geared up and ready to dive into the intense action of Tarkov.
Error Code 213 has become one of the most common connection issues plaguing Escape From Tarkov players, particularly after major updates like the version 1.0 release. This comprehensive guide will walk you through everything you need to know about this pesky error and provide you with battle-tested solutions to get you back into the game faster than you can say “extract.”
In this ultimate troubleshooting guide, I’ll share not just the basic fixes you’ll find elsewhere, but also the hidden solutions and pro tips that most players miss. Whether you’re a seasoned PMC or new to the streets of Tarkov, by the end of this article, you’ll have multiple weapons in your arsenal to combat Error Code 213 and minimize your downtime.
Before we dive into the solutions, let’s understand what we’re up against. Error Code 213, also known as “Error connecting to auth server,” is a connection-related error that occurs when your game client fails to establish or maintain a stable connection with Escape From Tarkov’s authentication servers.
Based on my research across multiple sources including official forums and community discussions, here are the primary culprits behind Error Code 213:
| Cause Category | Specific Issues | Likelihood |
|---|---|---|
| Server-Side Issues | Server overload, maintenance periods, unexpected outages | High |
| Network Problems | ISP issues, network congestion, DNS problems | Medium |
| Client-Side Issues | Corrupted game files, permission issues, firewall blocks | Medium |
| External Factors | VPN/proxy interference, antivirus software conflicts | Low |
Server Overload: This is the most common cause, especially during peak hours or immediately after updates when thousands of players try to connect simultaneously.
Network Congestion: Your internet connection might be stable for browsing but insufficient for the demanding connection requirements of Escape From Tarkov.
ISP Problems: Sometimes your Internet Service Provider might be experiencing issues or routing problems that specifically affect gaming connections.
Hardware Issues: Outdated or malfunctioning network hardware (routers, modems, network cards) can also contribute to connection instability.
Now that we understand what Error Code 213 is and what causes it, let’s dive into the solutions. I’ve organized these fixes in order of simplicity and effectiveness, so start with Step 1 and work your way down.
Before you touch anything on your computer, you MUST check if the problem is on Battlestate Games’ end. I can’t tell you how many hours I’ve seen players waste troubleshooting their systems when the issue was simply server maintenance.
How to Check Server Status:
If servers are confirmed to be down: The only solution is patience. Grab a snack, watch some Tarkov streams, and wait for the developers to resolve the issue. Trying other fixes during server downtime will only frustrate you.
Sometimes the simplest solutions are the most effective. These basic steps can resolve temporary connection glitches:
This fix has helped countless players, including myself, resolve Error Code 213. Sometimes the game needs elevated permissions to access necessary network resources.
How to Run Escape From Tarkov as Administrator:
C:\Battlestate Games\EscapeFromTarkov)EscapeFromTarkov.exe fileAlternative Method:
Corrupted or missing game files are a common cause of Error Code 213. This process will scan your installation and replace any faulty files.
Via BSG Launcher:
...) next to the “Play” buttonVia Steam:
Important: Your progress and items are stored on the game servers, so verifying files won’t affect your character or stash.
While VPNs are great for privacy and security, they can interfere with Escape From Tarkov’s connection to authentication servers.
How to Disable VPN:
How to Disable Proxy:
inetcpl.cpl and press EnterSometimes your security software might be blocking Escape From Tarkov’s connection to the authentication servers.
Windows Firewall Configuration:
EscapeFromTarkov.exe and click “Open”Antivirus Software: The process varies by antivirus software, but generally:
Sometimes DNS issues can prevent your game from connecting to authentication servers. Changing your DNS can help resolve this.
How to Change DNS Settings:
ncpa.cpl and press Enter1.1.1.1 (Cloudflare DNS)8.8.8.8 (Google DNS)PowerShell Method (Advanced): Open PowerShell as Administrator and run:
netsh interface ip set dns name="Ethernet" static 1.1.1.1(Note: Replace “Ethernet” with your actual network connection name if different)
For persistent connection issues, network optimization tools can help stabilize your connection to Escape From Tarkov servers.
Recommended Network Optimizers:
How to Use GearUP Booster:
If all else fails, a fresh installation can resolve deep-rooted issues with corrupted files or improper installations.
Complete Reinstallation Process:
C:\Battlestate Games\https://prod.escapefromtarkov.com/launcher/downloadIf you’ve tried all the above solutions and still encounter Error Code 213, it’s time to reach out to the professionals.
How to Contact Escape From Tarkov Support:
What to Include in Your Support Ticket:
launcher.log file (found in the launcher folder)For the tech-savvy players who want to try everything possible, here are some advanced solutions:
Escape From Tarkov requires specific ports to be open for optimal connectivity:
Required Ports:
How to Forward Ports:
Sometimes resetting your network stack can resolve stubborn connection issues:
Open Command Prompt as Administrator and run:
netsh winsock reset
netsh int ip reset
ipconfig /release
ipconfig /renew
ipconfig /flushdnsRestart your computer after running these commands.
A clean boot helps identify if background applications are interfering with the game:
msconfig and press EnterIf you’re playing the Steam version of Escape From Tarkov, try these additional steps:
For players using the official BSG Launcher:
%appdata%\Battlestate Games\BsgLauncherCache folderOnce you’ve resolved Error Code 213, follow these tips to prevent it from happening again:
A: Not necessarily. Error Code 213 is often a server-side issue, especially during peak hours or after updates. Always check the official server status before troubleshooting your system. I’ve seen countless players waste hours trying to fix their computers when the issue was simply server maintenance.
A: Absolutely not! Your profile, progress, and items are all stored securely on Escape From Tarkov’s servers. Verifying game files only affects the local game installation on your computer and is completely safe for your account.
A: If you’ve exhausted all the troubleshooting steps in this guide, the issue might be related to your specific internet routing or a deeper system problem. Try restarting your router/modem one more time, and as a last resort, you may need to wait for a game patch from the developers if the error is widespread across the community.
A: Yes, definitely. Your Windows Firewall or third-party antivirus software can block Escape From Tarkov’s connection to authentication servers. Make sure both EscapeFromTarkov.exe and the BSG Launcher are allowed through your firewall and any security software.
A: The duration varies depending on the cause. If it’s server-related, it could last from a few minutes to several hours. If it’s a client-side issue, most fixes in this guide should resolve it within 10-30 minutes. For persistent issues lasting more than 24 hours, contact support.
A: It’s a double-edged sword. While some players report that switching VPN servers helps, others find that VPNs cause the error in the first place. If you use a VPN, try disabling it first. If you don’t use one, you could try a gaming-optimized VPN as a last resort.
A: Windows updates can sometimes change network or security settings that affect gaming. Try running the game as administrator, check your firewall settings, and perform a network reset using the command prompt methods mentioned in the advanced section.
Error Code 213 in Escape From Tarkov can be incredibly frustrating, but as you’ve seen in this comprehensive guide, there are numerous solutions available to get you back into the action. From simple server checks to advanced network configurations, you now have a complete toolkit to combat this authentication error.
Remember the golden rule: always check server status first before diving into complex troubleshooting. More often than not, Error Code 213 is a temporary issue that resolves itself once server loads stabilize or maintenance is completed.
For persistent issues, follow the step-by-step approach I’ve outlined, starting with the simplest solutions and working your way up to more advanced techniques. Don’t forget to bookmark this guide for future reference, as Error Code 213 can sometimes reappear after major updates or during peak gaming hours.
Stay patient, stay persistent, and most importantly, don’t let technical issues keep you from enjoying the intense, rewarding experience that Escape From Tarkov offers. The streets of Tarkov await your return, PMC!
