Quick Summary
Error 20002 in Final Fantasy XIV typically indicates a lost connection to the game servers. This can be due to a variety of network-related issues either on your end, or with the game servers themselves.
Common Causes
- Internet Connection Issues: A fluctuating or unstable internet connection is one of the most common causes. Packet loss, high latency, or temporary outages can all trigger error 20002.
- Firewall or Antivirus Interference: Your firewall or antivirus software might be blocking the game's connection to the servers. This can happen even if the game was previously allowed.
- Server-Side Issues: Occasionally, the Final Fantasy XIV servers themselves can experience problems, leading to disconnections. This is usually temporary.
- Network Congestion: High network traffic between your device and the game server can cause timeouts and disconnections.
- Outdated Network Drivers or Software: Outdated network drivers or operating system components can sometimes cause connectivity problems.
Step-by-Step Fixes
Method 1: Restart Your Modem and Router Show Steps ↓
Step 1: Power down your modem and router by unplugging them from the power outlet.
Step 2: Wait approximately 60 seconds.
Step 3: Plug the modem back in and wait for it to fully power on (usually indicated by the status lights).
Step 4: Plug the router back in and wait for it to fully power on.
Step 5: Try launching Final Fantasy XIV again.
Method 2: Check Your Internet Connection Show Steps ↓
Step 1: Use a web browser to visit several different websites to ensure your internet connection is working.
Step 2: Run a speed test (e.g., using speedtest.net) to check your download and upload speeds. Compare the results to your internet service plan.
Step 3: Look for packet loss using a ping test. Open Command Prompt (Windows) or Terminal (macOS) and type 'ping google.com -n 20' (Windows) or 'ping google.com -c 20' (macOS). Look for any instances of "Request timed out" which indicates packet loss.
Method 3: Temporarily Disable Firewall and Antivirus Show Steps ↓
Step 1: Temporarily disable your firewall and antivirus software.
Step 2: Launch Final Fantasy XIV and see if the issue persists.
Step 3: If the game works with the firewall/antivirus disabled, add Final Fantasy XIV to the exception list or whitelist in your firewall/antivirus settings.
Step 4: Re-enable your firewall and antivirus.
Method 4: Check the FFXIV Server Status Show Steps ↓
Step 1: Visit the official Final Fantasy XIV server status page (usually available on the official FFXIV website or forums).
Step 2: Check if your game world or data center is experiencing any known issues or maintenance.
Step 3: If there are server problems, wait for the issue to be resolved by the developers and try again later.
Method 5: Update Network Drivers Show Steps ↓
Step 1: Open Device Manager (Windows) by searching for it in the Start menu.
Step 2: Expand the 'Network adapters' section.
Step 3: Right-click on your network adapter and select 'Update driver'.
Step 4: Choose 'Search automatically for drivers' and follow the on-screen instructions.
Step 5: Restart your computer after the driver update is complete.
Method 6: Use a Wired Connection Show Steps ↓
Step 1: If you are using Wi-Fi, try connecting your computer directly to your modem or router using an Ethernet cable.
Step 2: Launch Final Fantasy XIV and check if the error persists. A wired connection provides a more stable and reliable connection than Wi-Fi.