Helldivers 2 'An Unknown Error Has Occurced': What's this & How to Fix it

Helldivers 2 has been popular since its launch, but—as is the case with many online multiplayer games—there are a few kinks that developers are trying to work out. One of the most frustrating problems players encounter is: “An unknown error has occurred.” This error prevents users from getting into the game. Here’s a detailed look at what causes this error and how you might be able to fix it.

What is the Helldivers 2 Unknown Error

The unknown error in Helldivers 2 typically occurs due to server issues. This is usually a clear indication that game servers are down, and players mostly cannot log into their games to play, mainly because of overloaded servers or activities going on within servers related to maintenance.

Simply put, it’s the perfect definition of a vague, catch-all message for a variety of ills the game is suffering from. The error most commonly occurs after the update or during peak server times, at which times Arrowhead Game Studios—the developers—are mostly likely to be running a weed-whacker through the source code. In other words, it’s like a digital traffic jam, preventing you from reaching your battlefield destination.

How to Fix the Unknown Error in Helldivers 2

While the error is server-based, and generally not the fault of players, you may consider the following steps in the hope of solving the issue:

Check Server Status: Before you proceed to try anything, first check if the Helldivers 2 servers are down. You can do this by visiting the game’s official Twitter page or Discord server, where the developers frequently post updates about server status. You can also visit DownDetector, which will give you real-time details on server outages.
Restart Your Router and Console/PC: Sometimes the problem can also be from your network connection, so completely power off your router, as well as your gaming console or PC. Unplug them from the switch for 30 seconds before plugging them back in and restarting. It may help reset your network connection to get rid of a glitch.
Use Google’s DNS: This has worked for a handful of players, so it may help you resolve the problem of ‘An unknown error has occurred’. Sometimes changing DNS settings on your PC could help correct connection problems. On your PC, check the network settings for IPv4 to use Google’s DNS, with 8.8.8.8 preferred for DNS and 8.8.4.4 for an alternative. After doing all this, restart your PC and check if you can connect to the game.
Disable IPv6: A few users have pointed out that turning off IPv6 in their network settings has helped them get a better connection. This can be done through your network adapter settings on your PC.
Verify Game Files: If you’re playing on a PC, use your game launcher (like Steam) to verify the integrity of the game files. In the support of the game launcher, this process may help you fix corrupted files causing the error. For Steam: Find Helldivers 2 in your Library, right-click, click Properties, select the Local Files tab, and finally select “Verify Integrity of Game Files”.
Check for Updates: So you should make sure that your game, and for that matter, also your system—be it a computer or console—is running on the latest version, as an outdated game might sometimes cause conflict with the server and probably, the new update patches brings the fixes for the exact problem.

What to Do If the Problem Persists?

If you have followed all the above steps and the Helldivers 2 unknown error is still in play, there is no other choice but just to wait. However, server-related issues are generally resolved by the game developers, who often announce the status of the problem along with the approximate time for the solution on social media. Look for official communication on server maintenance or fixes. In short, the unknown error in Helldivers 2 largely comes down to server problems; while there are a few troubleshooting steps that can be done, but the only best solution often is to have patience.