Fortnite doesn't start - you can do that
If you want to play Fortnite, but the launcher or the game doesn't start, there are several possible reasons. Usually it works after a few simple solutions, but sometimes the problem is not with your PC or your console. Read our practical tip to find out what you need to do to be able to play Fortnite again.
Check server status if Fortnite does not start
- For a multiplayer like Fortnite to work, players must join a server. However, this can cause problems, so that the game no longer works, the player search fails or you cannot connect to the Battle Royale mode.
- Especially on weekends and in the evenings, the server is often overloaded because too many players want to log in at the same time. The result: long login queues, error messages when trying to start and more.
- You can find out whether the Fortnite server is down, for example via the social media channels of Epic Games or in the Epic Games launcher.
Solutions: Battle Royale or Fortnite do not work
If the servers are online, the problem is most likely yours. Since various errors are possible, test the following solutions:
- Restart your PC or console. Fortnite may already work afterwards.
- If you have installed Fortnite on the PC, check whether your computer meets the system requirements of the game.
- Check your internet connection. Restart your router if there are problems. This step already fixes many bugs.
- If you can start the game but cannot connect to Battle Royale, change your DNS address to "Preferred DNS server: 8.8.8.8" and "Alternative DNS server: 8.8.4.4".
- Close the Epic Games launcher. Then right-click it and select "Run as administrator". Then try to start Fortnite again.
- Start the Epic Games Launcher and click the gear icon at Fortnite next to the "Start" button. Select "Verify" and wait for the process to complete.
- Briefly deactivate your antivirus and add Fortnite as an exception in the firewall.
- Uninstall and then reinstall Fortnite. If you play the PvE mode, you will find your saved files under "% LOCALAPPDATA% \ FortniteGame \ Saved \ Config \ WindowsClient". Back them up before uninstalling.
Are you getting a very specific error message and just can't find the reason why Fortnite won't start? Learn how to contact Epic Games support for help here.