Error 213 has become one of the most common issues players see when trying to log into Escape from Tarkov, especially after the 1.0 Steam launch. Instead of loading into the launcher or the game, players are stopped by a message that simply says “Error 213: connecting to auth server”.
The problem is frustrating because it prevents you from even reaching the loading screen, but the cause is more predictable than it appears. Here’s a clear look at why Error 213 happens and the methods that are actually helping players get past it.
Why Error 213 Happens in Escape from Tarkov
Based on player reports and community updates, Error 213 is almost always connected to server-side congestion. Tarkov’s Steam launch brought in far more players than expected, and authentication services struggled to keep up.
Players also reported seeing:
- Error 213
- Error 418
- Error 0
- “There is no game with name eft”
All of these appeared during the same period of heavy traffic, which strongly suggests the root issue is server overload rather than a problem with your PC or account. Developers have confirmed they are actively working on stabilizing services.
When authentication servers are under pressure, your launcher may fail during the login handshake, triggering Error 213.
Quick Checks Before Trying Fixes
Before attempting deeper steps, do the basics:
- Restart your PC.
- Restart your router.
- Confirm that your internet connection is stable.
- Close and reopen the BSG or Steam launcher.
- Try logging in outside peak hours.
If it still doesn’t work, move on to the solutions below.
All Working Fixes for Escape from Tarkov Error 213
1. Switch to a Different Region Using a VPN
Many players confirmed that simply switching their region via VPN immediately fixed the issue.
Because the authentication servers are overloaded unevenly across regions, changing your location can force the launcher to talk to a less busy server.
Try switching to one of these regions (highest success rate):
- Chicago
- Kansas City
- Albania (surprisingly effective, as noted by players)
After connecting via VPN, relaunch Tarkov and attempt login again.
2. Change Your DNS to Cloudflare or Google
A large group of players fixed both login failures and download stalls by changing their DNS to Cloudflare or Google.
Recommended DNS servers:
- Cloudflare: 1.1.1.1
- Google: 8.8.8.8
Windows Steps (PowerShell as Administrator)
Run these commands one by one:
netsh interface ip set dns name="Ethernet" static 1.1.1.1
netsh interface ip add dns name="Ethernet" 8.8.8.8 index=2
ipconfig /flushdns
ipconfig /release
ipconfig /renew
netsh winsock reset
netsh int ip resetRestart your PC afterward.
Players confirmed this fixed:
- Error 213
- Login failure
- Downloads stuck around 30%
3. Run the Launcher as Administrator
A simple but widely successful fix.
If the launcher cannot request elevated permissions during the handshake, it can fail to connect properly.
Steps:
- Right-click the Battlestate Games Launcher (or Steam shortcut).
- Select Run as administrator.
- Log in again.
Several users stated this alone solved their authentication error.
4. Verify Game Files (Steam Version Only)
Corrupted files on the Steam installation can cause authentication failure during launch.
Steps:
- Open Steam Library.
- Right-click Escape from Tarkov → Properties.
- Go to Installed Files.
- Click Verify Integrity of Game Files.
- Restart your system when complete.
Try launching again afterward.
5. Allow Escape From Tarkov Through Your Firewall
If Windows blocks the authentication request, Error 213 appears.
Steps:
- Open Windows Security.
- Select Firewall & Network Protection.
- Click Allow an app through firewall.
- Choose EscapeFromTarkov.exe (add manually if needed).
- Enable both Private and Public checkboxes.
- Save and restart the launcher.
6. Full Network Reset
If nothing has worked, resetting your networking stack can flush out lingering routing issues.
Open CMD or PowerShell as Administrator and run:
netsh winsock reset
netsh int ip reset
ipconfig /flushdnsRestart your PC and retry.
7. Reinstall the Game (Last Resort)
If you’ve tried all fixes and still see Error 213, a clean reinstall may help—especially for players who migrated from the old BSG launcher to Steam.
After reinstalling:
- Run the executable as administrator.
- Double-check your firewall exceptions.
- Avoid opening VPN mid-install (may corrupt files).
When the Fix Isn’t on Your End
Because Error 213 is strongly tied to peak-time authentication overload, sometimes no fix will work until servers stabilize.
Signs it’s a server-side issue, not your PC:
- Multiple players in your region are reporting the same error.
- You receive different codes every attempt (213, 418, 0).
- Login works through VPN but fails locally.
- You only reach the email-verification step and never receive the code.
In these cases, waiting is often the only option. Developers have confirmed they are actively working on service stability.
Read More:
- Escape from Tarkov Pre-Order Bonuses Revealed: All Editions and Exclusive Rewards Explained
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- Escape From Tarkov Error 103003: Access Denied — What It Is and How to Fix It
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