Learn how to fix Escape from Tarkov Error 522 with fast, reliable steps. Solve EFT disconnecting issues, connection timeouts, and get back into the game smoothly.
Why Error 522 Confuses So Many EFT Players
If you’ve spent any time in Escape from Tarkov, you already know the game doesn’t just test your aim — it tests your patience too. And nothing proves that more than seeing Error 522 pop up right when you’re ready to jump in.
It usually hits without warning, leaving players staring at a spinning launcher icon and wondering whether the issue is on their end or if something bigger is happening behind the scenes.
What makes this error so confusing is how unpredictable it feels. One moment the game is running fine, and the next, the launcher throws a “connection timed out” message that stops everything in its tracks.
Even players on Reddit mentioned how everyone suddenly started getting the same 522 error at the same time, which instantly turned the situation from a “my PC problem” into an “EFT-wide mystery.”
This lines up with how Cloudflare 522 works in real-world scenarios — it appears when Cloudflare can reach the user but cannot establish a connection to the game’s origin server, which is typically hosted by Battlestate Games. If that server becomes overloaded, unreachable, or returns responses too slowly, Cloudflare triggers the timeout automatically.
And that’s exactly why this guide exists. Instead of guessing why Escape from Tarkov Error 522 appears or wasting time trying dozens of random fixes, you’ll get a clear, down-to-earth explanation of what this error actually means, why it tends to happen, and what you can realistically do about it.
Think of it as a friendly walkthrough — just without the stress of losing your gear.
Before we dive deeper, here’s the key thing to remember:
“Error 522 doesn’t always point to a problem with your setup. Sometimes, the game’s own servers are the ones taking cover.”
In fact, during large EFT events, updates, or server maintenance, players across multiple regions often see widespread 522 errors because the servers are temporarily unreachable or overloaded — something the community has reported repeatedly over the years.
What Escape from Tarkov Error 522 Actually Mean
At its core, Error 522 in Escape from Tarkov is simply a connection timeout, but the way it happens can be misleading. You might assume it’s your PC, your internet, or even the launcher misbehaving — but the truth is a little different.
This error shows up when Cloudflare (the service that routes EFT’s web and launcher traffic) tries to reach the server of Battlestate Games and doesn’t get a response in time. Your computer successfully reaches Cloudflare — but the origin server fails to reply, and that’s when the timeout is triggered.
Many players on Reddit noticed this pattern too. A lot of them mentioned that they couldn’t reach the EFT website or log into the launcher at all, which is a classic sign that the server itself isn’t answering — not that something is wrong on the player’s end.
To put it simply:
“Error 522 means your request made it out — but the Tarkov server didn’t answer back.”
So while it looks technical and intimidating, the meaning behind the error is actually straightforward: the server didn’t respond fast enough for Cloudflare to let you through.
Why Escape from Tarkov Error 522 Happens
Even though the error message looks the same for everyone, the reasons behind Escape from Tarkov Error 522 can vary. Thankfully, the patterns are consistent enough — especially when you combine technical knowledge with what players have reported online.
Server Overload or Temporary EFT Server Outage
When too many players log in at once or when servers are under heavy load, the origin server struggles to respond to Cloudflare. This is one of the most common reasons behind Error 522.
Reddit users described moments where entire regions experienced the error at the same time, which points directly to server-side strain rather than individual connection problems.
Cloudflare Origin Timeout Between Players and Battlestate Servers
A Cloudflare 522 error is triggered when the service can’t complete the handshake with EFT’s backend. This can happen if:
- The server is unreachable
- The server responds too slowly
- The routing path between Cloudflare and Battlestate drops packets
In these moments, even if your internet is working perfectly, the server simply cannot respond in time.
Tarkov Launcher Actions That Coincide With Server Instability
Some players on Reddit mentioned that the error appeared right after leaving a raid, selling loot, or relaunching the game. These moments sometimes coincide with small server hiccups or temporary rate-limits, making the launcher fail to reconnect.
It’s not the player’s action causing the problem, but rather timing — the request hits the server during an unstable moment.
Rare ISP Routing or DNS Problems Triggering EFT Error 522
While not common, certain routing paths between Cloudflare and players’ ISPs can cause communication delays. This might trigger a 522 even when EFT’s servers are technically online.
Using alternate DNS or checking route stability can help diagnose this, though it affects far fewer players.
Common Early Symptoms Players Notice During a 522 Timeout
Before players realize it’s a server issue, they usually notice:
- Launcher not loading
- Website timing out
- Server list disappearing
- Matchmaking stuck or frozen
These symptoms match exactly what Cloudflare timeouts look like in other online games too.
Quick Checklist Before You Try Fix for Escape from Tarkov Error 522
A few fast checks can help you confirm whether Escape from Tarkov Error 522 is something you can resolve or if the issue is coming from the server side.
Check if the official EFT website loads
If the site doesn’t open or times out, the origin server isn’t responding, which often triggers Error 522.
Look for community reports
If players on Reddit or other forums are mentioning connection issues or 522 timeouts, the problem is likely widespread.
Restart the EFT launcher completely
Close it fully — not minimized or running in the background — and relaunch to refresh the connection.
Confirm your internet is stable
A quick connection check or switching to wired internet helps rule out local drops.
Don’t spam reconnect attempts
Repeated attempts can trigger temporary rate-limits, making errors more frequent.
Check for EFT maintenance or server updates
Downtime during updates can cause temporary connection timeouts.
Best Step-by-Step Fixes to Resolve Escape from Tarkov Error 522
Quick Starter Fixes for EFT Error 522 (Try These First)
Fully restart the Escape from Tarkov launcher (properly).
A simple restart may seem too basic, but it’s one of the first things worth trying because the launcher can occasionally fail to complete its initial connection handshake. When that handshake breaks, the launcher gets stuck attempting to reconnect, which can trigger repeated Error 522 messages.
To do this correctly:
- Close the Escape from Tarkov launcher completely.
- Open your Task Manager (or Activity Monitor on macOS) to confirm no launcher processes are running.
- Relaunch the launcher normally.
This works best when the timeout was caused by a momentary interruption or the launcher becoming stuck in an incomplete session. If the error returns immediately, continue with the next steps.
Check EFT server status & community outage reports
Before digging into deeper troubleshooting, it helps to check if the Escape from Tarkov servers are experiencing known issues. When servers are overloaded or offline, no amount of local fixes will solve the error — it’s simply a matter of waiting for the servers to respond again.
What to check:
Visit Battlestate Games’ official server status page: ETF Server Status
If large numbers of players are reporting connection trouble, the issue is likely on the server side rather than with your own device or internet connection.
Network-Level Fixes for Escape from Tarkov Error 522: Fast & Effective
Flush DNS cache (Windows / macOS quick commands).
Your device stores DNS records to quickly connect to frequently used services.
Sometimes, these cached entries become outdated or corrupted, sending your connection toward the wrong routing path. Flushing DNS resets that cache and forces the system to fetch fresh DNS information.
Windows command (Run as Administrator):
ipconfig /flushdns
macOS commands (varies by version):
sudo dscacheutil -flushcache
sudo killall -HUP mDNSResponder
This step clears outdated DNS entries, prevents misrouted requests, and helps fix routing issues that contribute to Error 522.
Restart your network adapter or switch to a wired connection.
Wireless networks experience more micro-drops and interference than wired ones. A momentary drop can interrupt your handshake with the game server and contribute to timeouts.
Try:
- Turning Wi-Fi off > on.
- Restarting the network adapter.
- Switching from Wi-Fi to Ethernet.
- Rebooting your router if your connection is unstable.
For many players, a wired connection greatly reduces packet loss.
Run a traceroute to identify routing failures.
Traceroute helps reveal exactly where your connection is failing. It shows each hop between your device and the Battlestate Games origin server, making it easier to understand whether the timeout is your ISP, Cloudflare, or the game server.
Commands:
- Windows:
tracert <hostname> - macOS / Linux:
traceroute <hostname>
What traceroute can reveal:
- Early-hop failures > potential ISP issue.
- Mid-route timeouts > carrier routing problem.
- Final-hop failures > aligns with server-side origin timeout, which often triggers Error 522.
If the route collapses at the end, the problem is usually not on your side.
Intermediate Fix for Escape from Tarkov Error 522: If It’s Not a Server Outage
Temporarily switch your DNS to Cloudflare or Google DNS.
DNS changes can bypass inefficient routing paths and improve your connection to Cloudflare or EFT’s backend. This is one of the most reliable network tweaks for players experiencing inconsistent routing.
Recommended DNS:
Cloudflare DNS: 1.1.1.1
Google DNS: 8.8.8.8
After switching DNS:
- Restart your network adapter.
- Relaunch the EFT launcher and try again.
This step often helps players whose ISPs rely on slower or outdated DNS resolvers.
Whitelist the Escape from Tarkov launcher in your firewall/antivirus.
Firewalls occasionally block outbound connections without notifying you, especially after launcher updates or antivirus scans.
Do this:
- Add the EFT launcher to your firewall allowlist.
- Allow Battlestate’s launcher ports if you’re comfortable.
- Temporarily disable your antivirus to test (turn it back on immediately).
Blocked outbound connections can mimic server errors, so this step rules that out.
Test your connection using a VPN to change routing paths.
A VPN forces your internet traffic to take a completely different route before reaching Cloudflare or EFT servers. This makes it useful for diagnosing routing issues.
To test:
- Connect to a nearby VPN location.
- Launch EFT and check if the 522 error still appears.
If the game works through the VPN, the issue is very likely your ISP’s routing.
Advanced Troubleshooting for Escape from Tarkov Error 522 (Technical Users Only)
Run packet-loss and latency tests with continuous ping.
Packet loss is a major cause of connection timeouts. Running a continuous ping helps identify instability.
Use:
ping -t <hostname> # Windows
ping <hostname> # macOS/Linux
Signs of trouble:
- Latency spikes
- “Request Timed Out” messages
- Patterns of dropped packets
Consistent packet loss means the issue is on the route — not with your PC.
Collect launcher logs, screenshots, and connection data.
If you need to contact support or escalate to your ISP, having detailed evidence cuts down on troubleshooting time. Collect:
- Screenshots of Error 522
- Launcher logs
- Timestamp of the connection attempt
- Selected region/server
- Traceroute and ping results
- List of fixes you’ve already tried
Support teams rely on this data to identify exactly where the failure is happening.
Adjust MTU settings only if guided by an advanced troubleshooting resource.
MTU determines how large packets can be. If set incorrectly, packets may fragment, drop, or fail during transmission.
Important notes:
- MTU adjustments are not necessary for most players.
- Incorrect MTU values can worsen timeouts.
- Only adjust MTU if a trusted resource recommends it for your specific issue.
When You Should Stop Troubleshooting (Likely a Server-Side Problem)
If you’ve already restarted the launcher, flushed DNS, tried traceroute, changed DNS, checked community reports, and the issue still persists, it strongly suggests the problem is server-side.
Common indicators include:
- Many players reporting Error 522 at the same time
- EFT’s website failing to load
- Traceroute timing out at the final hops
- Launcher consistently hitting a Cloudflare timeout
If dozens of players are facing 522 simultaneously, it’s almost certainly a server outage or Cloudflare-origin issue — and waiting is the only fix.
What to Include If You Contact Support or Your ISP
- Error: “Error 522 (connection timed out)”
- Time of the issue
- Selected region/server
- Traceroute and ping results
- Launcher logs
- Screenshots
- Steps you have already tried
Providing this data speeds up investigation significantly.
How to Tell When Escape from Tarkov Error 522 Isn’t Your Fault (Clear Signs It’s Server-Side)
When you see Error 522 in Escape from Tarkov, sometimes the issue really isn’t on your end. Here’s how to spot those moments, based on real-world — not user-error — causes.
The EFT website or launcher login page also times out
If you can’t open the official EFT website or log into the launcher, and nothing loads or it times out repeatedly, that likely means the origin server isn’t responding. This matches how a Cloudflare 522 works: the request reaches Cloudflare, but the origin server fails to answer within the expected timeframe.
Many players report the same error at once
When you see multiple reports of 522 or connection issues on Reddit, Discord or forums — across different regions — that signals a widespread server problem or routing outage. Not an isolated incident, but a collective outage.
Your internet works fine for everything else except Tarkov
If streaming, browsing, or other games are running smoothly — but Tarkov keeps throwing timeouts — it suggests that your connection to internet is fine, but the problem lies between Cloudflare and EFT’s servers (or the servers themselves).
All your personal fixes fail repeatedly
Even after restarting launcher, checking DNS, switching connections — if the error persists exactly the same way, it likely means the origin server or hosting infrastructure is unresponsive. According to Cloudflare’s documentation, a 522 means the origin server never responded (SYN-ACK missing) or failed to acknowledge a request in time.
In short: when you see website timeouts, community-wide reports, and no improvement from local fixes — it’s almost certainly a server-side issue.
How to Reduce the Chances of Seeing Escape from Tarkov Error 522 in the Future
You can’t control Battlestate’s servers or Cloudflare’s infrastructure — but you can make sure your setup is as clean and stable as possible, which helps avoid avoidable timeouts.
Keep your network stable and consistent
Using a wired Ethernet connection instead of Wi-Fi can reduce packet loss or connection instability. Wi-Fi interference or weak signal often leads to latency or packet drops — which, when combined with server delays, increases the chance of a timeout.
Use a reliable, fast DNS provider for smoother routing
Switching to trusted DNS services (like Cloudflare’s 1.1.1.1 or Google’s 8.8.8.8) can help ensure faster DNS resolution and fewer misroutes. Clean DNS reduces chances of path-based delays before your request ever reaches Cloudflare.
Avoid logging in during high-traffic periods or server load spikes
Server overload (from many players logging in at once, or during updates/events) is one of the top causes of 522. If you can — try logging in during off-peak times to reduce strain on the origin server.
Restart launcher regularly — don’t leave it open for hours
Persistent sessions or long idle time might increase chances of encountering stale connections. Relaunching the game at least once in a while refreshes connections and decreases the risk of handshake failures.
Avoid spamming login attempts — give the server time between retries
Repeated, rapid reconnect attempts can trigger rate-limiting or overload the server, making timeouts more likely. Leaving a short gap between tries reduces this risk. This is in line with standard networking practices to avoid flooding a server with repeated requests.
Maintain a clean local environment (no conflicting firewalls or network filters)
Ensure antivirus or firewall rules aren’t blocking or interfering with outbound connections. Clean network settings minimize the chance of misrouted packets or blocked handshakes — which helps prevent Cloudflare timeouts on your side.
FAQ About Escape from Tarkov Error 522
Is Escape from Tarkov Error 522 caused by my PC?
Usually no. Cloudflare states that Error 522 occurs when the origin server fails to respond to its connection request, not when a user’s device fails. Your PC sends the request successfully — the server doesn’t reply.
Does Error 522 mean Escape from Tarkov servers are down?
Often yes. A 522 appears when Cloudflare reaches the edge but cannot connect to the game’s origin server, which commonly happens during server outages, overloads, or maintenance windows.
Will reinstalling the launcher fix Error 522?
Almost never. This error occurs after the launcher tries to connect to the server — meaning reinstalling doesn’t affect the Cloudflare-to-server timeout.
an using a VPN fix Escape from Tarkov Error 522?
A VPN may help if your ISP is routing poorly, because it forces a new path to Cloudflare. But it cannot fix server-side outages, which are the main cause of 522 errors.
How long does Error 522 last?
It depends on the root cause:
- Maintenance > ends when work is finished
- Overload > resolves as traffic decreases
- Routing issues > resolve once network paths stabilize
Cloudflare confirms 522 is triggered when no timely response arrives from the origin, so duration varies.
Does Error 522 affect matchmaking or raids?
Yes. Anything requiring a server handshake—login, matchmaking, or raid creation—can fail if the origin server is unreachable.
Can switching server regions help?
Sometimes. If a specific region is overloaded or unreachable, switching lets you connect through a different, healthier origin endpoint.
Should I spam “Reconnect” or keep retrying?
No. Rapid retries can trigger temporary rate-limits. Cloudflare advises against high-frequency repeated requests during timeouts.
Is this the same as Error 521 or Error 524?
They’re related but different:
- 521: server refuses connection
- 524: server takes too long to respond
- 522: server never responds to the initial connection attempt
These are all origin-server communication failures, but caused by different behaviors.
Final Thoughts: What Escape from Tarkov Players Should Expect Moving Forward
Escape from Tarkov Error 522 can be frustrating, but understanding what triggers it makes it easier to handle. Since Error 522 occurs when Cloudflare can’t get a timely response from the origin server, it’s often tied to server load, maintenance, or routing issues rather than anything on your device. This aligns with Cloudflare’s documentation noting that 522 happens when the server fails to complete the TCP handshake in time.
In most cases, the issue resolves once the server stabilizes. When you’ve already verified your connection and followed the basic checks, there’s usually nothing more you need to do on your end.
“The server didn’t answer — not you.”
Staying patient and giving the servers a moment to recover is often all it takes to get back into Tarkov smoothly.
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