Epic Games Launcher Error Code LS-0021: How to Fix It
Easy 10-30 minutes Medium Severity
Verified June 2026
- Error Code
- LS-0021
- Brand
- Epic Games
- Product Type
- game_launcher
- Severity
- Medium
- DIY Difficulty
- Easy
- Estimated Fix Time
- 10-30 minutes
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Tools You'll Need
- Windows PC with administrator access
- Task Manager (built into Windows)
- Windows Services console (services.msc)
- Internet connection (to download reinstaller if needed)
How to Fix Error Code LS-0021
-
Restart the Epic Games Launcher
-
Restart the Epic Games Launcher Service via Windows Services
Do not disable this service permanently — the launcher requires it to run. Only restart or start it. -
Run the Launcher as Administrator
-
Check and Repair the Epic Games Launcher Installation
-
Reinstall the Epic Games Launcher
Back up your game save files if the game stores saves locally before uninstalling. Check the game's settings or documentation to find where save files are stored. -
Check for Windows Updates and Restart Your PC
-
Temporarily Disable Antivirus or Firewall
Only disable antivirus temporarily for testing purposes. Re-enable it immediately after testing to keep your system protected.
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When to Call a Professional
Contact Epic Games Support (via the Help section at epicgames.com) if you have tried all steps above and the LS-0021 error persists. This may indicate a deeper Windows service or registry corruption issue, in which case a local PC technician can help diagnose and repair your Windows installation without losing your data.Frequently Asked Questions
What does Epic Games error code LS-0021 mean?
LS-0021 means the Epic Games Launcher Service has stopped running. This background service is required for the launcher to start and function. It can stop due to a crash, corrupted files, permissions issues, or interference from security software.
Will I lose my games or progress if I reinstall the Epic Games Launcher?
No, your games and purchases are tied to your Epic Games account in the cloud, so they will reappear after reinstalling. However, game files saved locally on your PC may be affected if you delete the game folder, so do not delete your games folder during reinstallation — only uninstall the launcher itself.
Why does LS-0021 keep coming back every time I restart my PC?
If LS-0021 returns repeatedly, the launcher service may be set to start manually rather than automatically, or it may be getting blocked by antivirus software on startup. Open services.msc, find the Epic Games Launcher Service, right-click it, select 'Properties', and set the Startup Type to 'Automatic'. Also add Epic Games to your antivirus exclusion list.
Can antivirus software cause the LS-0021 error?
Yes. Some antivirus programs or firewalls mistakenly identify the Epic Games Launcher Service as a threat and block or quarantine it. Try temporarily disabling your antivirus and launching Epic Games. If it works, add the Epic Games Launcher folder as an exclusion in your security software settings.
Do I need to reinstall my games after fixing LS-0021?
No. Fixing error LS-0021 only involves the launcher application itself, not your installed games. Your games remain on your hard drive and will be recognized by the launcher once it is running properly again. You may need to verify game files from the launcher if a game shows as unrecognized, but a full reinstall of games is rarely necessary.