How to Fix Epic Games Launcher SU-PQR5 Error on Windows

The SU-PQR5 error in the Epic Games Launcher typically appears when the launcher fails to initialize essential services or dependencies required for proper operation. This error often occurs during the launch process or while installing games. In most cases, it’s triggered by permission conflicts, missing system files, or interference from antivirus or firewall software.

Occasionally, the launcher may also fail to start due to a missing Visual C++ redistributable, which is necessary for initialization. In simple terms, the SU-PQR5 error indicates that something is blocking the launcher from starting.

This guide will help you fix the SU-PQR5 error and get the Epic Games Launcher running smoothly again.

1. Run Epic Games Launcher as Administrator

If the launcher is being restricted by your system’s security settings or antivirus software while attempting to modify files, running it as an administrator can resolve the issue. This grants the launcher full access to system resources and eliminates permission-related conflicts that may be causing the error.

1. Locate the Epic Games icon on your desktop, right-click it, and select Open file location.
2. In the folder that opens, right-click on EpicGamesLauncher.exe and select Run as administrator.

2. Add the -SkipBuildPatchPrereq Command Line

The -SkipBuildPatchPrereq command line disables checks for prerequisite components during startup. If the SU-PQR5 error is caused by a failed or corrupted prerequisite, this step can help bypass the check and allow the launcher to start.

1. Right-click the Epic Games Launcher shortcut on your desktop and select Properties.
2. Go to the Shortcut tab and locate the Target field.
3. Add a space at the end of the existing text (outside the quotation marks), then type:

   -SkipBuildPatchPrereq

   Example:

   "C:\Program Files (x86)\Epic Games\Launcher\Portal\Binaries\Win64\EpicGamesLauncher.exe" -SkipBuildPatchPrereq

4. Click Apply, then OK.
5. Launch the Epic Games Launcher to check if the error is resolved.

3. Reinstall Microsoft Visual C++ Redistributables

The Epic Games Launcher relies on Microsoft Visual C++ Redistributables for background operations and user interface elements. If these components are missing or corrupted, the launcher may fail to start. Reinstalling these redistributables ensures that the required runtime components are correctly configured.

1. Press Win + R, type appwiz.cpl, and click OK.
2. Right-click each Microsoft Visual C++ Redistributable entry and choose Uninstall.
3. Visit the official Microsoft website to download the latest supported versions.
4. Download and install both the x86 and x64 versions.
5. After installation, restart your PC.
6. Open the Epic Games Launcher to verify if the SU-PQR5 error is resolved.

If none of the above methods resolve the problem, consider reinstalling the Epic Games Launcher. This will remove any corrupted installation files and replace them with a clean, up-to-date version that should work without errors.