In this guide, we explain what error code 8001 is, discuss why Dead by Daylight cannot connect to online services, and offer step-by-step solutions for fixing the issue on both Xbox and PC.
Dead by Daylight is a thrilling multiplayer horror game, but encountering error code 8001 can be incredibly frustrating—especially when the game gets stuck at “Validating Privileges” or displays errors like “0x8B050033” on Xbox during patch downloads.

This connection error, widely known as Error 8.001 in Dead by Daylight, prevents access to online services and is commonly reported by both Xbox and PC players.
What Is Error Code 8001 in Dead by Daylight?
Error code 8001 is a connection failure that prevents Dead by Daylight from reaching its online servers. Many players have observed that the game gets stuck at “Validating Privileges” before displaying this error. On Xbox, some users encounter an additional message, “0x8B050033”, when trying to download updates, with the console indicating that no updates are available.
This error typically points to one or more underlying issues, such as:
Server problems: Downtime or maintenance on the game’s servers.
Network instability: Issues like high latency, packet loss, or unstable connections.
Corrupted or missing game files: Often resulting from incomplete updates or system glitches.
This problem is widely reported across multiple platforms, with significant reports coming from both Xbox and PC users.
Why Does Dead by Daylight Cannot Connect to Online Services?
The message “Dead by Daylight cannot connect to online services” signals a deeper issue with the game’s ability to reach its servers. Several factors can contribute to this problem:
Server Issues: At times, the Behaviour Interactive servers may be undergoing maintenance or experiencing high traffic. For real-time updates, check the Dead by Daylight Official Twitter or visit Downdetector to see if other players are reporting similar issues.
Network Connectivity: Unstable internet connections with high latency or packet loss can prevent the game from properly authenticating your login. Xbox players might also be affected by issues with Xbox Live services; you can verify the current status at the Xbox Live Status Page. PC players using platforms like Steam may encounter similar connectivity challenges if their network settings are not optimized.
Local System Interference: For PC users, local settings such as firewalls or antivirus software might block the game from connecting to its servers. Additionally, corrupted or outdated game files can lead to connection failures, necessitating file verification through your game platform (e.g., Steam or Epic Games Store).
How to Fix Error 8001 in Dead by Daylight
General Troubleshooting Steps
Begin by checking the Dead by Daylight server status. Use official channels like the Dead by Daylight Twitter or Downdetector to determine if the servers are down for maintenance.
Once you’ve confirmed that the servers are operational, follow these steps:
- Restart Your Game, Console, or PC: Restarting can help clear temporary glitches that may be causing the error.
- Restart Your Router and Modem: Unplug your router and modem for at least 30 seconds, then plug them back in to refresh your network connection.
- Verify Your Internet Connection: Run an internet speed test and, if possible, switch from Wi-Fi to a wired Ethernet connection for better stability.
- Check Local Security Software (PC Users): Temporarily disable your firewall or antivirus software to determine if they are blocking the connection. If the game works with these disabled, add Dead by Daylight as an exception.
- Verify and Repair Game Files: Use the file verification tool on your game platform—such as the “Verify Integrity of Game Files” option in Steam. Or the repair function in the Epic Games Store—to fix any corrupted or missing files.
Fixing Error 8001 on Xbox
For Xbox users, begin by checking the Xbox Live service status to see if there is an ongoing outage. Visit the Xbox Live Status Page for real-time updates.
Additional Xbox-Specific Steps:
Clear the Xbox Cache: Turn off your Xbox completely and unplug the power cable for about one minute before restarting. This process clears temporary data that might interfere with the connection.
Reset the Alternate MAC Address: Navigate to your network settings, clear the alternate MAC address. And then restart your console to establish a fresh connection.
Fixing Error 8001 on PC
PC users have several additional methods to tackle error code 8001:
Flush the DNS Cache: Open the Command Prompt as an administrator, type ipconfig /flushdns
, and press Enter. Restart your PC to apply the changes.
Run Dead by Daylight as Administrator: Right-click the game’s executable file and select “Run as Administrator”. To ensure it has the necessary permissions to connect.
Change DNS Settings: Modify your DNS settings to use Google’s DNS servers (8.8.8.8 and 8.8.4.4). This can often bypass local DNS issues and provide a more stable connection.
To do this on Windows, go to Control Panel > Network & Internet > Network Connections, right-click your connection, select Properties, and adjust the settings for Internet Protocol Version 4 (TCP/IPv4).
Additional Resources
Dead by Daylight Official Twitter: Stay updated with the latest news and server status from the developers.
Downdetector – Dead by Daylight: See real-time reports of server issues and outages.
Xbox Live Status Page: Check if there are any issues with Xbox Live that might affect your connection.
Steam Support: Access troubleshooting guides and support for PC-related issues on Steam.
Final Thoughts
Error code 8001 in Dead by Daylight can be a significant obstacle. Nut by following these troubleshooting steps, you can resolve connectivity issues on both Xbox and PC.
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