Since its official release, FIFA 23 has encountered various issues, causing frustration among players and fans worldwide. While there are more bugs reported on the PC platform, certain problems are common across all platforms. One such issue arises when the game’s servers encounter difficulties accessing local data. If you’re experiencing trouble connecting to the EA server or encountering an “unable to connect” error while playing FIFA 23, rest assured, you’re not alone; this problem is widespread among players.
Fortunately, there is relief; in most cases, it can be swiftly addressed and tends to resolve itself. To discover how to fix this issue, refer to the instructions provided in this guide.
There are several possible causes for the FIFA 23 “Unable To Connect” issue.
The issue may stem from either the EA servers being down or facing an overwhelming number of continuous connection attempts from multiple users, which is a potential primary cause of the problem. Additionally, the issue could be attributed to mistakes on your end, such as a weak internet connection with high latency, a suboptimal setup, a running background application, or a cache-related problem.
In this article, we will elucidate how to resolve the problem of FIFA 21/22/23 not functioning or encountering issues with the EA server (unable to connect).
Fix FIFA 21/22/23 Won’t Connect to EA Servers
1. Check the EA Server Status
Issues related to servers are typically the primary culprits behind problems encountered while playing FIFA games online. Consequently, it is crucial to initially investigate any evident server-related issues.
Occasionally, the EA servers might experience downtime, unrelated to any issues on your part. During certain periods, a substantial number of users could be concurrently accessing the EA servers. This is especially common during the release of a new game or when EA introduces fresh content, like a FIFA Ultimate Team event. The servers may struggle to accommodate such a high volume of users, resulting in a brief downtime, usually lasting around an hour. This occurrence is relatively frequent, so there’s no need to worry.
In such cases, the recommended approach is to either restart the game or attempt to reconnect to the EA servers persistently. Alternatively, if time allows, you can wait a few minutes for EA to rectify (hopefully) the server issues or for the servers to become available.
To ascertain that the issue is not originating from your end and to determine whether a server outage or maintenance is occurring on a specific platform, we strongly recommend checking the status of the EA game servers or visiting the official EA Server Status page.
2. Check the Game’s Updates
Ensure your games are updated to the latest versions, as you won’t be able to connect to online servers and play games online until the updating process is complete. Typically, games are configured to update automatically by default. However, there might be instances where they fail to update automatically due to a system fault or error. We recommend checking for updates for the games you play, whether on PS4, Xbox One, or PC.
3. Turn off the VPN
It’s not uncommon for certain PC gamers to utilize VPNs while engaging in online gaming. VPNs provide access to geo-restricted games and content, enhance online gaming security, and can contribute to lower ping levels, effectively reducing lag during gameplay.
In general, using a VPN should not adversely impact your connectivity. However, some lower-quality VPN services, particularly free ones, may not consistently perform at their best. Consequently, connecting to such a VPN service could lead to a complete interruption of your internet connection. This can result in issues like difficulty connecting to EA’s online game servers.
To troubleshoot this, consider disabling your VPN and restarting the EA game to determine if the problem persists. This step helps ascertain whether the VPN service is causing the problem. If that’s the case, refrain from using the problematic service and explore reputable VPN alternatives.
4. Restart your Console or Computer
If the error is not caused by a server issue, consider refreshing your console or PC. Turn off your computer or gaming console and disconnect it from the power supply for thirty seconds. Afterward, turn it back on and check for the problem.
Shutting down your computer or game console completely can also free up RAM, halting any troublesome activities, particularly if you frequently open and close multiple apps or have numerous downloads running in the background. By performing this action, you can ensure that your games start up properly.
5. Check for Console System Software Updates
Upon activating your console, it occasionally conducts an automatic check for updates, downloading and prompting you to initiate the installation process if any are available. A failure to keep your system up to date can hinder your ability to play online or connect to online servers. Moreover, regularly updating your console is advisable, as the latest updates might encompass bug fixes for various technical issues, including network connectivity problems.
However, there are instances when you might not receive a reminder or notification for updates, likely due to a system error. To manually check for system updates,
6. Try a Different Domain Name System (DNS)
Your Internet Service Provider (ISP) utilizes a Domain Name System (DNS) as an electronic phone book, translating human-readable internet addresses (like help.ea.com) into computer-readable numerical strings.
Encountering challenges in connecting to the internet may stem from issues with your DNS server. Resolving a faulty DNS involves switching to a different DNS server. Some free options available for this switch include Google DNS and Open DNS. It’s important to note that neither Open DNS nor Google DNS is owned by EA, and users assume any associated risks when opting for these services.
These fundamental steps are applicable across all platforms and can be initiated once account or server status issues have been addressed. However, modifying network settings can be intricate. If you lack confidence in making these adjustments, seek assistance from your Internet service provider (ISP).
7. Restart your Router or Move it Near the Console or Computer.
If you’re encountering “unable to connect” errors with EA servers, don’t worry, especially if your internet connection is consistently slow and prone to disruptions. Performing a full reset on your router, completely powering it down to clear its cache and memory, can enhance your internet access.
Over time, routers accumulate more memory and heat up with prolonged operation. Allowing it to remain powered off for a brief period can help cool it down. To do this, switch on your WiFi router, press the power button to turn it off, and disconnect it from the switch. Wait for 20 to 30 seconds before plugging it back in and powering it on.
For improved connectivity, consider placing your internet router closer to your console or PC. The presence of large structures like walls and wireless devices such as speakers scattered throughout your home can weaken your WiFi connection. Bringing your console or computer closer to the router will result in an immediate increase in signal strength, reducing the likelihood of disconnections.
8. Get in Touch with EA for Technical Assistance
Even though you’ve diligently followed this guide, if you still encounter the “unable to connect” message in FIFA 23, your final recourse is to officially report the problem to EA. Fortunately, reaching out to them is a relatively swift process; their Contact Us page assures a response to your live chat within 25 minutes.
Please note that, as specified on their Contact Us page, the live chat function is available for a limited time. To engage with the EA support staff through live chat:
- Visit the EA Contact Us website, enter the name of your game, and click on it.
- Choose your platform and indicate the issue you’re facing, in this instance, connectivity, and select the topic of your problem, which is Technical Support on the next page. Click the “Select contact option” button.
- Log into your EA account.
- Choose Live Chat as your help option. Enter “unable to connect” in the EA server as the subject of your issue and share any relevant screenshots.
- Finally, select “Request Live Chat.” An EA support staff member will connect with you within 25 minutes to further discuss your problem.
CONCLUSION
Encountering the “unable to connect” error when eagerly anticipating playing FIFA 23 can be undoubtedly frustrating. Take a moment to follow the concise instructions in this article to address the issue.
We trust that the instructions provided in this guide have been beneficial to you. Have you ever experienced connectivity problems with EA games? Share your insights in the comments section. Feel free to describe how you resolved this issue.