Helldivers 2 Error Code ES_1: How to Fix It

Easy 10-30 minutes Medium Severity Verified June 2026
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Error Code
ES_1
Brand
Helldivers 2
Product Type
game
Severity
Medium
DIY Difficulty
Easy
Estimated Fix Time
10-30 minutes
Helldivers 2 Error Code ES_1 means the game failed to establish a network connection to the game servers, preventing you from playing online. This error can be triggered by server outages, local network issues, firewall blocks, or corrupted game files. Most cases can be resolved at home without any technical expertise in just a few minutes.
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Tools You'll Need

How to Fix Error Code ES_1

  1. Check Helldivers 2 Server Status

  2. Restart the Game Completely

  3. Restart Your Router and Modem

    Do not simply press the reset button on your router, as this may restore it to factory default settings and erase your Wi-Fi name and password. Use the power cable instead.

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

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

  6. Disable VPN or Proxy Services

  7. Allow Helldivers 2 Through Your Firewall

  8. Verify or Repair Game Files (PC/Steam)

  9. Change Your DNS Server to a Public DNS

  10. Reinstall Helldivers 2

    Reinstalling will delete all local game data. Ensure your progress is cloud-saved to your Steam or PlayStation account before proceeding.
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When to Call a Professional

If you have tried every step in this guide and still cannot connect, contact your Internet Service Provider (ISP) to check for routing issues or outages on their network that may be blocking gaming traffic on the required ports. You can also submit a support ticket directly to Arrowhead Game Studios via their official website or the Helldivers 2 community on Discord, where developers actively post server status updates and known bug fixes.

Frequently Asked Questions

What does Helldivers 2 error code ES_1 mean?
ES_1 means Helldivers 2 failed to establish a network connection to the game's online servers. It can be caused by server outages on Arrowhead's end, problems with your home internet connection, firewall blocks, VPN interference, or corrupted game files.
Is Helldivers 2 ES_1 a server-side issue?
It can be. ES_1 is sometimes triggered by Arrowhead Game Studios server outages or high server load, especially during new content launches or peak play hours. Always check the official Arrowhead Twitter/X account or DownDetector first before troubleshooting your own connection.
Why do I keep getting ES_1 even with a good internet connection?
A working internet connection does not guarantee access to the Helldivers 2 servers. Firewalls, VPNs, incorrect DNS settings, or corrupted game files can all block the connection specifically to the game's servers even while the rest of your internet works fine. Follow steps 6 through 9 in this guide to address these causes.
Does Helldivers 2 ES_1 affect PC and PlayStation equally?
Yes, ES_1 can occur on both PC (Steam) and PlayStation 4/5. The root causes are the same — network failure to reach game servers. Some fixes, like flushing DNS via Command Prompt, are PC-specific, but most steps such as rebooting your router, switching to Ethernet, and checking server status apply to both platforms.
Will I lose my Helldivers 2 progress if I reinstall to fix ES_1?
No. Helldivers 2 saves your progression, rank, and unlocks server-side and ties them to your Steam or PlayStation Network account. Reinstalling the game only removes local game files, not your account data. Once you reinstall and log back in, your progress will be fully restored.

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