How to Fix the Call of Duty Server Sync Time Error?
The “Server Sync Time Error” in Call of Duty sends players back to the main menu or blocks them from connecting. This happens when the system time on the player’s device doesn’t match the server’s time, causing connection issues. The main cause is an incorrect system clock.
Other causes can include VPN conflicts, bad internet connection, DNS problems, or account sync issues.
In this article, we’ll go through several methods to help you fix this error.
Preliminary Fixes
- Restart Your Device: Sometimes, temporary glitches with your console can trigger this error, so it’s a good idea to restart your device before trying other steps.
- Check the Official Sites: Go to the official Call of Duty Twitter account or the Activision Support site to see if there are any announcements about server maintenance or outages.
- Check Your Internet Connection: A stable internet connection is essential for playing COD smoothly. If you’re facing issues, you can check your internet speed at Fast or Speedtest by Ookla. If the connection is slow or unreliable, try restarting your router/modem or contact your Internet Service Provider (ISP) for assistance.
1. Test Your Network Connection
Checking your internet connection can help you identify any network problems that might affect your gaming experience. This quick test will let you see how well your console connects to the internet and gaming services.
- Go to the settings menu on your Xbox console.
- Select Network Settings.
- Choose your wireless network from the list.
- Enter your Wi-Fi password and select Done.
- Your Xbox will test the connection and show a report with the network status.
2. Clear the Alternate MAC Address
Every device on a network has its own MAC address, which helps it communicate correctly. Occasionally, setting an alternate MAC address can cause conflicts with your network, leading to connection problems. Clearing it will let your console use the default address again and often resolves these issues.
- Go to Xbox Network Settings.
- Find and select Alternate MAC Address.
- In Advanced Settings, navigate to Alternate MAC Address.
- Select Clear to remove any custom MAC address and restore the default.
3. Quit and Restart the Game
Closing and restarting the game is a basic but effective way to fix bugs and minor glitches. It’s helpful if the game is frozen or an error has occurred. Just remember to save your progress first, as closing the game abruptly may result in lost progress.
4. Restart the Xbox Console
Restarting your Xbox console can help it run smoother and often solves random issues. To do this, turn off your Xbox fully, unplug the power cable, and wait a couple of minutes. Then plug it back in and turn it on again. This helps ensure your console starts fresh. If you have any important data, remember to make a backup first.
5. Contact Support
If the steps above don’t fix the problem, it’s best to contact Activision Support and explain your issue. Their support team can help you find a solution tailored to your specific situation. You can reach them through the Activision Support Portal.