Encountering Error Code 418 in Escape From Tarkov is a frustrating experience that blocks your access to the game, often occurring during login or matchmaking. This error is primarily tied to server and connection issues, especially prevalent after major updates like the recent 1.0 release on Steam, which has led to a massive influx of players. This guide will explain the causes and provide you with clear, step-by-step solutions to resolve it.
What is Error Code 418?
Error Code 418 is a connection-related error in Escape From Tarkov. It typically indicates a failure to establish a stable connection with the game’s servers. While the root cause is often on the game’s server side due to high traffic or maintenance, there are several client-side checks and fixes you can perform to rule out local issues.
Step-by-Step Fixes for Error Code 418
Follow these troubleshooting steps in order. Start with the simplest solutions before moving on to more involved ones.
1. Check the Official Server Status
Before changing anything on your PC, always verify the problem isn’t widespread.
Visit the official Escape from Tarkov X (formerly Twitter) account or the Battlestate Games status page (if available).
Check community forums like the official subreddit. If many players are reporting the same issue at the same time, the problem is likely on the developer’s end, and your only option is to wait.
2. Flush Your DNS Cache
A corrupted or outdated DNS cache can prevent your PC from correctly connecting to the Tarkov servers. Flushing it can resolve this.
Press the
Windows Key + Rto open the Run dialog.Type
cmdand pressCtrl + Shift + Enterto open the Command Prompt as an administrator.In the black window, type the following command and press Enter:
ipconfig /flushdnsYou should see a message confirming the DNS Resolver Cache was successfully flushed.
Restart your computer and try launching Tarkov again.
3. Restart Your Router and Modem
This classic fix can resolve a multitude of connection issues by refreshing your IP address and clearing your network’s temporary memory.
Shut down Escape From Tarkov completely.
Turn off your router and modem (and your PC, for good measure).
Wait for at least 60 seconds.
Turn your modem back on and wait for all the lights to become stable.
Then, turn your router back on.
Once your network is fully online, boot up your PC and launch the game.
4. Use a Wired LAN Connection (If on Wi-Fi)
Wi-Fi connections are inherently less stable than wired ones and can be susceptible to interference and packet loss, which can trigger Error 418.
If you are currently using Wi-Fi, connect your PC directly to your router using an Ethernet cable. This provides a more stable and reliable connection to the game servers and is highly recommended for online gaming.
5. The Final Step: Wait for Server Stabilization
If you have tried all the above steps and the official server status indicates problems, the issue is entirely server-side. Following a major update like 1.0, the developers often work to scale and stabilize the servers. In this scenario, no client-side fix will work.
Your only solution is to be patient and wait for an official announcement from Battlestate Games confirming that server issues have been resolved.
FAQ
Q: Is Error Code 418 my fault?
A: Most of the time, no. It is frequently caused by server overload, especially after new updates or during peak playing hours. The fixes above are to eliminate any local contributing factors.
Q: Can I fix a server-side issue myself?
A: No. If the problem is with the Escape From Tarkov game servers, only the developers at Battlestate Games can resolve it.
Q: Will reinstalling the game fix Error Code 418?
A: It is highly unlikely, as this is a network-related error, not a file corruption error. Reinstalling should be considered a last resort after all network troubleshooting has failed and server status is confirmed to be stable.
Q: Should I use a VPN?
A: In some rare cases where there is a routing issue between your ISP and the Tarkov servers, a VPN can help by providing an alternative path. However, this is not a common solution for Error 418 and should only be tried if you are certain the servers are up and all other fixes have failed.
Conclusion
Error Code 418 in Escape From Tarkov is a clear sign of a breakdown in communication between your game and its servers. The most reliable troubleshooting path is to first check the official server status. If servers are operational, then proceed to flush your DNS cache and perform a full router restart. For a permanent stability improvement, switch to a wired LAN connection. If these steps don’t work, the ball is in the developer’s court, and your best course of action is to wait for them to stabilize the servers. Patience is often the ultimate key to getting back into the raid.