Elden Ring Error Code network-1: How to Fix It

Easy 10–30 minutes Medium Severity Verified June 2026
Error Code
network-1
Brand
Elden Ring
Product Type
game
Severity
Medium
DIY Difficulty
Easy
Estimated Fix Time
10–30 minutes
Elden Ring error code network-1 appears when the game fails to verify your network connection during a status check, preventing you from accessing online features like co-op, invasions, and messages. This is typically caused by an unstable internet connection, firewall or NAT restrictions, or a temporary issue with FromSoftware's servers. In most cases you can resolve this yourself in just a few minutes by following the steps below.
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Tools You'll Need

How to Fix Error Code network-1

  1. Check FromSoftware / Bandai Namco Server Status

  2. Restart the Game and Your Platform

  3. Restart Your Router and Modem

    Do not hold the reset pinhole button on your router — that will erase all your custom settings. Simply unplug and replug the power cable.
  4. Switch to a Wired (Ethernet) Connection

  5. Check and Open NAT Type / Required Ports

    Only adjust router port forwarding settings if you are comfortable doing so. Assign a static local IP to your device before forwarding ports to avoid conflicts after router restarts.
  6. Disable VPN, Proxy, or Antivirus Network Filtering

    Re-enable your VPN and antivirus after testing. Do not leave your firewall disabled permanently.
  7. Flush DNS Cache (PC Only)

  8. Verify Game File Integrity (PC / Steam)

  9. Update Network Adapter Drivers and Console System Software

  10. Change DNS Servers to a Public DNS

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When to Call a Professional

If you have tried every step above and the error persists only on your network, contact your Internet Service Provider (ISP). A technician may be able to identify routing issues, packet loss problems, or ISP-level port blocking that you cannot fix yourself. If the issue is isolated to one specific platform (e.g., PlayStation Network), contact Sony or Microsoft support for account or network-level diagnosis. For persistent PC issues after driver updates and file verification, consider contacting Bandai Namco support directly with your network diagnostics logs.

Frequently Asked Questions

What does Elden Ring error code network-1 mean?
Error code network-1 means Elden Ring attempted to perform a network status check — verifying your connection to FromSoftware's online servers — and the check failed. This blocks access to all online features including co-op summoning, PvP invasions, and ghost/message systems.
Can I still play Elden Ring offline when I get error network-1?
Yes. If you receive error network-1, you can switch to offline mode and continue playing the full single-player game without restrictions. On the main menu, go to System > Network and set Launch Setting to Play Offline. All story content, bosses, and exploration remain fully available offline.
Is Elden Ring error network-1 caused by a ban?
Not typically. Error network-1 is a connection failure error, not a ban notification. If you were banned by the Easy Anti-Cheat system, Elden Ring displays a different dedicated message. network-1 simply means the game could not reach the network status endpoint, usually due to connectivity or NAT issues.
Why does Elden Ring say network-1 only on PS5 or Xbox but not on PC?
Platform-specific network-1 errors are often related to PlayStation Network or Xbox Live connectivity rather than your home internet. Ensure your PSN or Xbox Live subscription is active, check the respective platform's service status page, and verify that your console's NAT type is Open or Moderate under network settings.
Does a VPN fix or cause Elden Ring error network-1?
A VPN most commonly causes network-1 rather than fixes it, because VPN encryption and routing can interfere with the game's network authentication check and increase latency beyond acceptable thresholds. Disable your VPN before launching Elden Ring. In rare cases, if your ISP specifically blocks game server IPs, a VPN might help — but this is uncommon.