Experiencing server disconnect errors while playing FIFA on Windows 11 can be frustrating. These interruptions often prevent you from enjoying smooth online gameplay. Fortunately, there are several simple solutions you can try to fix this issue. This guide will walk you through easy and effective methods to resolve FIFA game server disconnect errors on your PC.
Most of the time, these errors occur due to network problems or software conflicts. By following the steps carefully, you can identify and fix the root cause. No advanced technical knowledge is required, and each step is explained clearly.
Whether you are a casual player or a dedicated gamer, keeping your connection stable is essential for uninterrupted matches. Let’s begin with some quick checks before diving into detailed troubleshooting.
Read through the solutions in order, starting with the basics and moving to more advanced options if needed.
Quick Note: Prerequisites and Initial Checks
- Check your Internet connection: Ensure your PC is connected to the internet and the connection is stable.
- Restart your router: Sometimes, simply rebooting your router can fix temporary network glitches.
- Make sure FIFA servers are online: Visit the official EA server status page to verify if there are any outages.
- Close background apps: Programs running in the background can interfere with your network or game performance.
- Update Windows and FIFA: Keeping your system and game updated fixes bugs and improves compatibility.
Step 1: Restart Your PC and Network Devices
Before making any changes, try restarting your PC and network hardware. This simple step helps clear temporary glitches that might be causing connection problems.
- Turn off your computer.
- Unplug your router and modem from the power source.
- Wait for at least 30 seconds.
- Plug the router and modem back in and wait for all lights to stabilize.
- Turn your computer back on and launch FIFA to check if the error persists.
This process refreshes your internet connection and can often resolve minor network issues.
Step 2: Run Network Troubleshooter on Windows 11
Windows 11 includes a built-in network troubleshooter that automatically detects and fixes common network problems. Running this tool can help identify issues affecting FIFA’s connection.
- Click on the Start button and select Settings.
- Go to System > Troubleshoot > Other troubleshooters.
- Find Internet Connections in the list and click Run.
- Follow the on-screen instructions to allow Windows to detect problems and apply fixes.
- After completion, restart your PC and test FIFA again.
This step helps fix issues such as incorrect network settings or DNS errors that could cause disconnects.
Step 3: Disable VPN and Proxy Settings
Using a VPN or proxy server can interfere with FIFA’s ability to connect to its game servers. If you have either enabled, try disabling them temporarily to see if it resolves the problem.
- Open Settings and navigate to Network & internet.
- Select VPN and turn off any active VPN connection.
- Go back and select Proxy.
- Make sure Use a proxy server is turned off.
- Restart FIFA and check if the disconnect error is gone.
FIFA’s servers sometimes block connections coming from VPNs or proxies to prevent cheating and maintain fair play.
Step 4: Reset Network Settings
If your network configuration is corrupted or misconfigured, resetting it can help restore default settings. This often fixes persistent connectivity problems.
- Open Settings > Network & internet.
- Scroll down and click on Advanced network settings.
- Choose Network reset.
- Click the Reset now button and confirm.
- Your PC will restart automatically. After reboot, try launching FIFA again.
Resetting removes all custom network configurations, including saved Wi-Fi passwords, so you will need to reconnect to your network afterward.
Step 5: Allow FIFA Through Firewall
Windows Firewall can block FIFA from communicating with its servers. Ensuring FIFA is allowed through the firewall is essential for online play.
- Press Windows + S and type Windows Defender Firewall, then open it.
- Click on Allow an app or feature through Windows Defender Firewall on the left panel.
- Click Change settings (you may need admin rights).
- Look for FIFA in the apps list. If not found, click Allow another app… and browse to the FIFA executable file (usually in
C:Program FilesElectronic ArtsFIFA). - Make sure both Private and Public boxes are checked for FIFA.
- Click OK and restart your PC.
This ensures your security software is not blocking necessary game connections.
Step 6: Update Network Adapter Drivers
Outdated or faulty network drivers can cause connectivity problems. Updating your network adapter drivers may improve stability with FIFA servers.
- Right-click the Start button and select Device Manager.
- Expand the Network adapters section.
- Right-click your network device and select Update driver.
- Choose Search automatically for updated driver software and wait for Windows to find and install updates.
- If no update is found, visit your network adapter manufacturer’s website to download the latest drivers manually.
- Restart your PC and test FIFA once more.
Keeping drivers up to date helps prevent compatibility issues with Windows 11 and online games.
Step 7: Use Google DNS
Sometimes, your default DNS server may cause slow or unstable connections. Switching to Google’s public DNS can improve connection reliability.
- Open Settings > Network & internet > Advanced network settings.
- Click More network adapter options.
- Right-click your active network connection and select Properties.
- Select Internet Protocol Version 4 (TCP/IPv4) and click Properties.
- Choose Use the following DNS server addresses.
- Enter these values:
Preferred DNS server: 8.8.8.8
Alternate DNS server: 8.8.4.4 - Click OK to save changes and close all windows.
- Restart your PC and check FIFA connectivity.
This change can reduce DNS lookup delays and improve your connection speed to game servers.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Why do I keep getting disconnected from FIFA servers?
Disconnects are usually caused by unstable internet connections, firewall blocks, or server-side issues. Checking your network and firewall settings often resolves the problem.
Is it safe to disable my firewall when playing FIFA?
It’s not recommended to disable your firewall completely. Instead, allow FIFA through the firewall to ensure security while enabling connectivity.
Can VPN cause FIFA server disconnect errors?
Yes, many online games including FIFA block VPN connections to prevent cheating and protect players. Disabling VPN usually fixes disconnect errors.
How do I check if FIFA servers are down?
You can visit EA’s official server status website or social media channels to see if there are any ongoing server outages affecting FIFA.
Will resetting network settings delete my saved Wi-Fi passwords?
Yes, resetting network settings removes all saved networks and passwords, so you will need to reconnect to your Wi-Fi afterward.
When Nothing Works
If you have tried all the steps above and still face disconnect errors, consider these final options:
- Contact EA Support: Visit the EA Help website for personalized assistance.
- Check for Windows updates: Sometimes, system updates fix underlying bugs affecting network performance.
- Reinstall FIFA: As a last resort, uninstall and reinstall the game to fix corrupted files.
- Try a wired connection: Switching from Wi-Fi to Ethernet can provide a more stable connection.
These approaches help isolate and fix complex issues beyond basic troubleshooting.
Conclusion
FIFA server disconnect errors on Windows 11 can be caused by multiple factors, mostly related to network and software settings. Starting with simple steps like restarting your devices, checking your internet connection, and running Windows troubleshooters can often solve the issue quickly.
More advanced solutions like resetting network settings, updating drivers, and adjusting firewall permissions ensure your system is properly configured for online gaming. Always verify server status and avoid VPNs while playing.
By following this guide, you should be able to enjoy seamless FIFA matches without unexpected disconnects. If problems persist, don’t hesitate to reach out to official support for help.