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The most frustrating error Final Fantasy XIV players encountered was the horrible error of “Could not download patch files”. An error in the preload client may prevent you from signing in before you enter the game.
So how to fix bug can not download patch files? Well, the problem seems to be related to issues with your firewall or cache errors and network issues such as port sharing.
Related: Do you need PlayStation Plus to play Final Fantasy XIV on PlayStation?
Could not download patch files FFXIV error
Since this is primarily a firewall problem, your first step is to verify that you have made an exception for Final Fantasy XIV on your firewall. In Windows, you can do this by tapping the Windows Firewall after tapping your Start menu and selecting Allow an application or feature through the Windows Defender firewall.
If you use a third-party firewall, you must manually create the exception. Even if you make an exception, updates to Final Fantasy XIV and your firewall may still be an exception. Before troubleshooting, make sure you have a firewall exception.
Flush your DNS
One problem that can cause the error is that the patch files could not be downloaded to your domain name system (DNS) cache. To resolve this issue you may need to plunder your DNS cache. To do this, click the Start button and type CMD to open the command line. In the command prompt window, type ipconfig / flushdns.
After doing this, reload Final Fantasy XIV and try downloading the patch again.
Check your ports / reset your router
Another reason you may encounter the error of not being able to download patch files is that your ports were not sent. Again, you can upgrade your router or change the game, even if your ports have already been shipped.
To send your ports, you need to access your router. It depends on the product and model of your router and your ISP, so you should check how to access your router on a case-by-case basis.
Once you have access to your router, make sure the following ports are sent:
Windows (not Steam)
- TCP: 54992-54994, 55006-55007, 55021-55040
- UDP: 3478-3479, 3074
Steam
- TCP: 27015-27030, 27036-27037, 54992-54994, 55006-55007, 55021-55040
- UDP: 4380, 27000-27031, 27036
If you still have problems, check with your ISP for a broader network problem. I hope you have solved your problem, but if not, see the Final Fantasy XIV Lodestone site for any lingering problems with FFXIV.
For more Final Fantasy XIV news and information, check out all the Final Fantasy XIV Warrior searches in the Pro Game guides.
Beatrice Ashford is a contributor at Nintendo-power.com, covering a wide range of topics including news, politics, business, technology, sport, entertainment, and lifestyle. She focuses on delivering clear, balanced reporting and useful information that helps readers stay informed about current events and emerging developments. Her work highlights stories that matter to everyday audiences, with an emphasis on accuracy, relevance, and accessible journalism that keeps readers connected to the issues shaping the world around them.