If you’re a Rocket League player who’s encountered Error Code 71, you’re not alone. This frustrating server connection error prevents you from joining online matches across all platforms—including PC, Xbox, PlayStation, and Nintendo Switch. This guide gives most common causes of Rocket League Error 71 and provides step-by-step solutions to help you fix it.
What Is Rocket League Error 71?
Rocket League Error 71 is a connection timeout error. It typically means your system was unable to maintain a stable link to Rocket League’s matchmaking servers. This issue can be caused by local network problems, server-side outages, or even misconfigured firewall or DNS settings on your device.
Common Causes of Rocket League Error 71
Before jumping into fixes, it helps to understand the most likely causes of this error:
- Server Downtime: If Rocket League servers are under maintenance or experiencing outages, Error 71 may occur across the board.
- Weak or Unstable Internet: Slow Wi-Fi or ISP issues can prevent proper matchmaking.
- Firewall or Antivirus Interference: Security software may block the ports Rocket League uses to communicate with game servers.
- Outdated or Corrupted Game Files: Missing updates or file corruption can disrupt server connectivity.
- Incorrect Network Settings: DNS misconfiguration, NAT issues, or lack of port forwarding can trigger Error 71.
How to Fix for Rocket League Error 71
Here are the most effective methods you can try to fix this error:
1. Check Rocket League Server Status
Visit status.rocketleague.com or the official Rocket League Twitter page. If servers are down, Error 71 is not on your end—you’ll need to wait until they’re back online.
2. Restart Your Network Hardware and Gaming Device
A full reboot of your modem/router and your gaming device (PC, Xbox, PlayStation) can clear connection cache and re-establish a fresh network handshake.
Steps:
- Turn off your gaming device.
- Unplug your modem/router for 30 seconds.
- Plug it back in and power up your system.
3. Use Wired Ethernet Connection
Wi-Fi can be unreliable for online gaming. If possible, connect your console or PC directly to the router using an Ethernet cable to reduce packet loss and latency.
4. Configure Port Forwarding
For Rocket League, the officially recommended ports (based on Psyonix support documentation and common router setups) are typically:
Rocket League Port Forwarding Settings (by Platform)
| Platform | Ports to Forward |
|---|---|
| PC (Steam/Epic) | UDP: 7000–9000 TCP: 80, 443 |
| PlayStation | UDP: 3478–3479 TCP: 5223, 1935, 80, 443 |
| Xbox | UDP: 88, 500, 3074, 3544, 4500 TCP: 3074 |
| Nintendo Switch | UDP: 1024–65535 TCP: 6667, 12400, 28910 |
Note: These ranges may vary slightly depending on your region or router model. Always check your router’s documentation or Rocket League’s official support page for the most accurate guidance.
5. Switch to a Public DNS Server
Changing your DNS to a faster, more reliable one can solve resolution issues that may be blocking Rocket League access.
Suggested DNS settings:
- Google DNS: 8.8.8.8 and 8.8.4.4
- Cloudflare DNS: 1.1.1.1 and 1.0.0.1
Apply these settings via your device’s network configuration.
6. Temporarily Disable Firewall or Antivirus
Firewalls or antivirus programs may be overly aggressive in blocking Rocket League traffic. Temporarily disable these and test the game:
- If Rocket League works, add an exception for the game launcher in your firewall settings.
7. Reinstall Rocket League
If your installation is corrupt, a clean reinstall may fix Error 71:
- Uninstall Rocket League from your device.
- Restart your system.
- Download and reinstall the latest version from your platform’s store or Epic Games Launcher.
Final Thoughts
Rocket League Error 71 is a frustrating but solvable problem for most players. Whether it’s a server outage or a local network issue, there are several methods available to troubleshoot and fix the issue. Start by checking server status, then work through local solutions such as resetting your router, updating network settings, or reinstalling the game.
By following the steps above, you’ll be able to resolve Error 71 and get back to enjoying Rocket League with smooth, uninterrupted gameplay.
