Fix Apex Legends Out of Sync With Server Error

The “Out of Sync With Server” error in Apex Legends is a connection issue that happens when your client and the game server disagree on player positions and actions, and it is usually fixed by restarting the game, checking your network, or switching servers. This guide walks through the most effective fixes, from quick resets to deeper network adjustments, so you can get back into the match quickly.

What Causes the Out of Sync Error?

Apex Legends is a fast-paced, online-only battle royale where every millisecond matters. The game runs on a tick rate (how often the server updates the game state) and your client constantly sends your inputs (movement, aiming, shooting) to the server, which then broadcasts the updated positions of all 60 players back to you. When your connection is unstable, has high latency, or suffers from packet loss, the data your client receives becomes outdated or incomplete. The server and your game then disagree on where players actually are, leading to the “Out of Sync” error. This is not a bug in your game files; it is a symptom of a network problem between your device and the EA/DICE servers.

Quick Fixes That Solve Most Cases

Before diving into complex network settings, try these simple steps. They resolve the issue for a large number of players because they clear temporary glitches and force a fresh connection.

• Restart the game completely: Close Apex Legends and the EA app (or Steam) entirely. Then relaunch. This forces a fresh handshake with the server.
• Restart your router/modem: Unplug it for 30 seconds, plug it back in, and wait for it to fully boot up. This clears your router’s cache and often resolves IP conflicts.
• Check for server status: The problem might be on EA’s side. Visit the official EA Help Twitter or the Apex Legends status page to see if there are ongoing outages. If the servers are down, you simply have to wait.
• Switch to a different data center: In the Apex Legends main menu, click the “Data Center” button (bottom left). Choose a server with a lower ping (under 80ms is ideal). Sometimes your default server is overloaded, and switching to a nearby one helps.

Network Settings That Actually Help

If the quick fixes don’t work, the error is likely due to your network configuration. Here are the most effective adjustments you can make on your PC or console.

1. Use a wired Ethernet connection: Wi-Fi is prone to interference and signal drops, which cause packet loss. Plug your PC or console directly into your router with an Ethernet cable. This alone fixes many sync issues.
2. Close bandwidth-hogging applications: Streaming video, downloading games, or having many devices on your network can saturate your bandwidth. Pause downloads and ask others to limit their usage while you play.
3. Enable QoS (Quality of Service) on your router: Log into your router’s settings (usually via 192.168.1.1 or 192.168.0.1) and enable QoS. Prioritize your PC or console’s MAC address for gaming traffic. This ensures your game data gets priority over other traffic.
4. Update your network drivers: On PC, go to Device Manager, find Network adapters, right-click your adapter, and select “Update driver.” Outdated drivers can cause intermittent connectivity issues.

Advanced Fixes: DNS, Firewall, and Port Forwarding

If the problem persists, these deeper fixes address more stubborn network issues.

Change Your DNS Server

Your ISP’s default DNS can be slow or unreliable. Switching to a public DNS like Google (8.8.8.8 and 8.8.4.4) or Cloudflare (1.1.1.1) can improve connection stability. On Windows, go to Control Panel > Network and Sharing Center > Change adapter settings, right-click your connection, select Properties, then Internet Protocol Version 4 (TCP/IPv4), and enter the new DNS addresses.

Allow Apex Legends Through Your Firewall

Windows Firewall or third-party antivirus software can sometimes block Apex Legends’ data packets. Go to Windows Security > Firewall & network protection > Allow an app through firewall. Click “Change settings,” then “Allow another app,” and add the Apex Legends executable (usually in C:\Program Files\EA Games\Apex Legends). Ensure both Private and Public boxes are checked.

Port Forwarding

Port forwarding is more advanced but can help. Apex Legends uses specific ports for online play. On your router, forward these ports to your PC’s local IP address: TCP 1024-1124, and UDP 1024-1124 and 9980-10000. The exact port list is available on EA’s official help site. This tells your router to send game traffic directly to your PC.

Why the Error Happens on Console

Console players face the same error, but the fixes are slightly different. On PlayStation or Xbox, you cannot change DNS or ports as easily, but you can still do the following:

• Power cycle your console (turn it off completely, unplug for 30 seconds, then restart).
• Change your console’s DNS settings to Google or Cloudflare (found in Network Settings).
• Put your console in the DMZ on your router (this exposes it to the internet, so be cautious). This can resolve strict NAT issues that cause sync errors.

Common Misconception: It’s Your Hardware

Many players assume the error is caused by a weak GPU or CPU. That is not true. The “Out of Sync” error is purely a network issue. Even a top-tier PC will get this error if your internet connection is unstable. Your hardware only affects your frame rate, not the server’s ability to sync your game state. So don’t waste money on new parts; focus on your network.

Frequently Asked Questions

Will restarting my router definitely fix the error?

Not always, but it’s the first step because it’s free and easy. It clears temporary network glitches. If the error persists after a router restart, move on to other fixes like changing DNS or using Ethernet.

Does using a VPN help with the Out of Sync error?

Sometimes. A VPN can route your traffic around a problematic ISP node, reducing packet loss. However, it can also increase your ping. Try a free trial of a reputable VPN service and see if the error disappears. If it does, your ISP’s routing is the issue.

Why does the error happen more often during peak hours?

Peak hours (evenings and weekends) mean more players are online, which can overload servers and your local network. Your ISP may also experience congestion. This is normal, but switching to a less populated server can help.

Can I fix the error by lowering my graphics settings?

No. Graphics settings do not affect network sync. Lowering them might improve your FPS, but it won’t change how your client communicates with the server. The error is purely connection-based.

Is there a permanent fix?

There is no single permanent fix because the error is caused by a variety of network factors. However, using a wired connection, having a stable internet plan, and keeping your drivers updated will minimize the chances of it happening.

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