Helldivers 2 Error Code ES_3: How to Fix It

Easy 10-30 minutes Medium Severity Verified June 2026
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Error Code
ES_3
Brand
Helldivers 2
Product Type
game
Severity
Medium
DIY Difficulty
Easy
Estimated Fix Time
10-30 minutes
Helldivers 2 error code ES_3 means the game's matchmaking system timed out while trying to connect you to a session or lobby. This typically happens due to server-side congestion, a poor or unstable internet connection, or a network configuration issue on your end. The good news is that ES_3 is almost always fixable without any hardware changes — most players resolve it within a few minutes by following the steps below.
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Tools You'll Need

How to Fix Error Code ES_3

  1. Check Helldivers 2 Server Status

  2. Restart the Game Completely

  3. Restart Your Router and Modem

    Do not press the reset button on the back of your router — that erases your custom settings. Simply unplug the power cable.

  4. Switch from Wi-Fi to a Wired Ethernet Connection

  5. Flush DNS Cache and Renew IP Address (PC Only)

    Running these commands requires administrator access. They are safe and will not delete your files or game data.

  6. Change Your DNS Server to a Public DNS

  7. Check Firewall and Port Forwarding Settings

    Only forward the specific ports listed. Avoid enabling full DMZ mode for your device, as this exposes it to all incoming traffic.

  8. Disable VPN or Proxy Services

  9. Verify Game File Integrity (PC/Steam Only)

  10. Update Network Adapter Drivers (PC Only)

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When to Call a Professional

If you have completed all steps above and Helldivers 2 ES_3 errors persist consistently across multiple days and sessions, contact Arrowhead Game Studios support at support.playhelldivers.com and submit a ticket with your Player ID, platform, region, and a description of steps already taken. If you suspect a deeper ISP routing issue — for example, if multiple online games experience matchmaking timeouts simultaneously — contact your Internet Service Provider to investigate packet loss or routing problems on their end. PlayStation hardware network issues should be directed to PlayStation Support.

Frequently Asked Questions

What does Helldivers 2 error code ES_3 mean?
ES_3 is a matchmaking timeout error in Helldivers 2. It means the game was unable to establish or complete a connection to a multiplayer session within the allowed time window. This can be caused by overloaded game servers, an unstable internet connection, blocked network ports, or local network configuration issues.
Is ES_3 a server-side error or a problem with my connection?
It can be either. During peak play times, major game updates, or server outages, ES_3 is caused by Arrowhead's servers being overloaded — and no action on your end will fix it until the servers recover. However, if the error happens consistently while others are playing normally, the issue is likely with your local network connection or settings.
Why does Helldivers 2 keep giving me ES_3 after a game update?
Large game updates often cause a surge in players logging in simultaneously, which temporarily overwhelms matchmaking servers and produces ES_3 errors for many users. This is very common in the hours immediately following a major patch. The best approach is to wait 1–3 hours after a big update before trying to play, or try during off-peak hours.
Does using a VPN fix or cause the Helldivers 2 ES_3 error?
VPNs are more likely to cause ES_3 than fix it. Routing game traffic through a VPN adds latency and can interfere with matchmaking handshakes. However, in rare cases where an ISP is throttling gaming traffic, a VPN with a server in the same region as the game servers might help. As a first step, always try disabling your VPN to rule it out as the cause.
Can ES_3 happen on PlayStation as well as PC?
Yes, ES_3 can occur on both PC (Steam) and PlayStation platforms. The server-side causes are identical across platforms. On PlayStation, focus on network fixes such as switching to a wired connection, changing DNS settings in the network setup menu, and ensuring PSN itself is not experiencing an outage, which you can check at status.playstation.com.

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