Baldur’s Gate 3 (BG3) players often encounter the “server shutting down” error, which disconnects them from multiplayer sessions. This issue can occur for several reasons, such as server maintenance, network instability, ISP restrictions, or firewall settings blocking the connection.
Since BG3 heavily relies on online multiplayer servers, any disruption in the connection can lead to this error. If you are facing repeated disconnections while playing, there are several ways to fix this issue.
This guide will help you understand why the BG3 server shutting down error happens and provide step-by-step solutions to resolve it.
What Does BG3 Server Shutting Down Error Mean?
The server shutting down error in Baldur’s Gate 3 means that the game is losing connection to the multiplayer servers, forcing players out of their sessions.
This issue can occur due to:
- BG3 servers undergoing scheduled maintenance or unexpected downtime.
- A poor internet connection causing repeated disconnects.
- The game’s anti-cheat or security settings interfering with the network.
- Corrupt game files preventing proper synchronization with BG3 servers.
If the error occurs frequently, it is important to determine whether the issue is on your end or a server-side problem.
Common Causes of BG3 Server Shutting Down Error
This error is typically caused by either server-side problems or player-side network issues. Here are the most common reasons:
- BG3 servers are down – If the game’s servers are under maintenance, players will be disconnected.
- Slow or unstable internet connection – High ping, packet loss, or weak network signals can disrupt gameplay.
- ISP-related restrictions – Some internet providers block or throttle gaming connections, causing server issues.
- Firewall or antivirus interference – Security software can mistakenly block BG3 from accessing online servers.
- Corrupt game files – If game data is missing or damaged, it may prevent proper connection to the servers.
- Server overload – A high number of players trying to join at once can overwhelm the servers, causing forced disconnections.
How to Fix BG3 Server Shutting Down Error
Follow these steps one by one to resolve the issue and reconnect to Baldur’s Gate 3 multiplayer.
1. Check if BG3 Servers Are Down
Before troubleshooting your connection, confirm whether BG3 servers are online. If the servers are down, waiting is the only option.
To check BG3 server status:
- Visit Larian Studios’ official website or Twitter (@larianstudios) for announcements.
- Check Downdetector for live reports of server outages.
- Look for updates on BG3 community forums (Reddit, Discord, Steam Discussions).
If the servers are experiencing downtime, the best option is to wait for the developers to restore them.
2. Restart the Game and Your Internet Connection
A quick restart can help clear temporary connection issues.
- Close Baldur’s Gate 3 completely.
- Restart your PC, console, or gaming device.
- Restart your router and modem by unplugging them for 30 seconds, then turning them back on.
- Relaunch BG3 and try reconnecting to the multiplayer server.
If the error was caused by a temporary network glitch, this should fix it.
3. Verify Game Files on Steam
Corrupt or missing game files can prevent BG3 from maintaining a stable connection. Verifying game files ensures that any damaged or incomplete data is repaired.
For Steam users:
- Open Steam and go to Library.
- Right-click on Baldur’s Gate 3 and select Properties.
- Navigate to the Installed Files tab.
- Click Verify Integrity of Game Files.
- Wait for the process to complete, then restart the game.
For GOG users, use the Verify / Repair feature in the game library.
4. Update Baldur’s Gate 3 to the Latest Version
An outdated version of the game may cause server connection issues. Ensure that BG3 is fully updated.
For Steam users:
- Open Steam and go to Library.
- Find Baldur’s Gate 3 and check for pending updates.
- If an update is available, download and install it.
For Epic Games or GOG users, update the game through the respective launcher.
5. Adjust Firewall and Antivirus Settings
Firewalls and antivirus programs sometimes block online games from accessing the internet. Adding BG3 to the allowed list can resolve connection issues.
To allow BG3 through Windows Firewall:
- Open Windows Defender Firewall and go to Allow an app through Windows Firewall.
- Click Change settings, then Add another app.
- Locate BG3.exe and add it to the exceptions list.
- Ensure both Public and Private networks are selected.
- Save the changes and restart your game.
For third-party antivirus programs, add BG3 as an exception in the security settings.
6. Use a Wired Connection Instead of Wi-Fi
Wi-Fi connections can be unstable, leading to high ping and packet loss, which may trigger disconnections. A wired Ethernet connection provides better stability.
If possible:
- Connect your PC or console directly to the router using an Ethernet cable.
- If using Wi-Fi, move closer to the router for a stronger signal.
- Avoid downloading large files while playing BG3 to reduce network congestion.
7. Try a Different Network or VPN
Some internet service providers throttle gaming connections or block certain game servers. Testing a different network can help identify whether your ISP is causing the issue.
To check:
- Use a mobile hotspot or different Wi-Fi connection to see if BG3 connects properly.
- If BG3 works on a different network, contact your ISP to check for restrictions.
- If your region blocks BG3, using a VPN may help bypass the restrictions.
8. Contact Support
If the error persists after trying all troubleshooting steps, contacting Larian Studios support is the next best option. They can assist with server-related issues, persistent multiplayer disconnects, or technical problems that player-side fixes cannot resolve.
You can reach out through the Larian Studios Help Center for direct support, report ongoing multiplayer issues in the official game forums, or check BG3’s social media pages for updates on known bugs and server maintenance schedules.
Preventing BG3 Server Shutting Down Error in the Future
- Keep Baldur’s Gate 3 updated to avoid connection bugs.
- Use a wired connection instead of Wi-Fi for more stable gameplay.
- Check server maintenance schedules before starting a multiplayer session.
- Restart your router and modem regularly to maintain a strong network connection.
Conclusion
BG3’s server shutting down error is a frustrating issue, but it is often fixable with simple troubleshooting steps. By checking server status, ensuring a stable connection, verifying game files, and adjusting firewall settings, most players can resolve the problem and enjoy uninterrupted multiplayer gameplay.
If the issue persists, reaching out to Larian Studios support or waiting for an official patch is the best course of action. If this guide helped you, share it with other players experiencing the same issue.