How to Fix Epic Games Launcher AS-3 Error

The Epic Games AS-3 error appears when the launcher fails to establish a connection with Epic’s back-end services. This typically happens due to regional restrictions, incorrect network settings, or the absence of support for modern protocols like IPv6. In some cases, third-party applications or insufficient system permissions may also block the connection.

Before proceeding with the fixes below, first check the Epic Games Server Status. If their servers are currently down, none of the methods will be effective until service is restored.

Let’s now go through the most effective solutions to fix the AS-3 error and restore connectivity.

1. Run Epic Games as Administrator

Start by running the Epic Games Launcher with elevated permissions. This helps eliminate any access-related issues that may be preventing the launcher from connecting properly.

1. Right-click on the Epic Games Launcher shortcut.
2. Select Run as administrator
3. If prompted by User Account Control, click Yes.
4. Check if the launcher opens and connects without displaying the AS-3 error.

If the error continues, proceed with the next steps.

2. Use a VPN to Bypass Regional or ISP Restrictions

Sometimes, your internet provider or local network may restrict access to Epic’s servers. A VPN allows you to route your connection through another region, bypassing these limitations and restoring access.

1. Choose a reputable VPN provider like NordVPN, ExpressVPN, or ProtonVPN, and install the application.
2. Launch the VPN and connect to a server in a region where Epic Games services are fully operational, such as the USA or Europe.
3. After connecting, open the Epic Games Launcher and check if the AS-3 error has been resolved.

3. Enable IPv6 in Network Settings

Epic Games supports both IPv4 and IPv6, but certain setups may fail to route IPv4 traffic correctly. Enabling IPv6 ensures the launcher can use a modern and more reliable connection method if IPv4 becomes unreliable or restricted.

1. Press Win + R, type ncpa.cpl, and click OK.
2. Right-click your active network connection and select Properties.
3. Find Internet Protocol Version 6 (TCP/IPv6) and check the box next to it if it’s currently unchecked.
4. Click OK to save your changes.
5. Restart your PC, then launch Epic Games and check if the error persists.

4. Temporarily Disable Antivirus/Firewall

Security programs, including antivirus and firewall tools, can mistakenly block Epic Games Launcher’s network communication, especially if they detect unfamiliar ports or processes.

Temporarily disabling your antivirus or firewall helps identify whether they’re interfering with the launcher. If the issue resolves while protection is off, you’ll need to add Epic Games to the list of exceptions.

1. Right-click on your antivirus icon in the system tray (bottom-right corner).
2. Select options such as Disable protection, Turn off antivirus, or Pause protection.
3. Open the Epic Games Launcher and see if the AS-3 error is gone.

5. Reset Network Settings

Incorrect DNS settings, misconfigured proxies, or changes made by VPNs and optimization tools can prevent Epic Games from connecting. A full reset restores network components to their default settings, which often fixes stubborn connection problems like AS-3.

1. Press Win + I to open Settings.
2. Navigate to Network & Internet, then click Advanced network settings.
3. Select Network reset.
4. Click Reset now and confirm the prompt by clicking Yes.
5. Your PC will restart automatically.
6. Once the system reboots and reconnects to the internet, launch Epic Games and verify if the error is resolved.

If none of these solutions resolve the issue, the final step is to reinstall the launcher. Reinstallation helps if there are corrupted or missing files that are preventing the program from connecting. Simply uninstall Epic Games Launcher from your system, download the latest version from the official website, and reinstall it.