10 Ways to Fix Fortnite Stuck on “Checking for Updates”

Fortnite has sustained a massive player base, thanks to its frequent updates and consistently fresh content each season. However, sometimes these updates may encounter issues, leaving players stuck on the ‘Checking for Updates’ screen and unable to jump into the game. While frustrating, this is often a minor obstacle that can be resolved with a few troubleshooting steps.

In this guide, we will explain the common causes behind this issue and provide clear, effective solutions to help you get back into Fortnite. Whether the problem lies with the servers or your network connection, the following steps will assist you in resolving it confidently and efficiently.

When Fortnite is stuck on ‘Checking for Updates’, it means the game cannot download or apply the latest updates. Here are some key reasons why this situation occurs:

• Server Issues: Fortnite’s servers may be temporarily down or undergoing maintenance.
• Internet Connection Problems: Your device might be experiencing an unstable or slow internet connection.
• Outdated Game Version: The game requires a new update that has not been installed yet.
• Corrupted Game Files: Some game files may be missing or damaged, preventing updates from processing correctly.
• Software Conflicts: Other software or background processes may interfere with Fortnite’s operation.

Now, let’s walk through the practical steps to resolve this issue and get you back into the game.

1. Check Server Status

Before making changes on your end, it’s important to verify the status of Fortnite’s servers.

1. Visit the official Fortnite Status Twitter/X account or check the Epic Games server status page to confirm if there are widespread server problems.
   

   

2. If the servers are down, you will need to wait until they are operational before launching Fortnite again.

This step rules out server-side issues, which are a common cause of update errors. By checking server status first, you can quickly determine whether the issue is on your device or with Fortnite itself—saving time on unnecessary troubleshooting.

2. Internet Connection Check

If Fortnite is not updating, your internet connection is the next thing to verify:

1. Ensure your device is online by testing other online services or games.
   

   

2. If you’re using Wi-Fi, try switching to a wired Ethernet connection for improved stability and speed.

A stable internet connection is crucial for successful updates. Ensuring your connection is reliable minimizes the chances of update failures and provides a better gaming experience overall.

3. Restart Devices

Often, the simplest solution is the most effective. Restarting can clear out temporary glitches that hinder the update process:

1. Restart your gaming device and your router or modem.
2. Once both devices have restarted, launch Fortnite again to see if the issue is resolved.

Restarting both your device and network equipment helps eliminate temporary software glitches or network errors that may be blocking the update process.

4. Change DNS Settings

Changing your DNS settings to a public DNS such as Google’s (8.8.8.8 and 8.8.4.4) can resolve problems caused by DNS-related issues.

1. Go to Control Panel > Network and Internet > Network and Sharing Center > Change adapter settings.
   

   

2. Right-click your active network connection and select Properties.
   

   

3. Select Internet Protocol Version 4 (TCP/IPv4) and click Properties.
   

   

4. Choose ‘Use the following DNS server addresses’ and enter Google’s public DNS: 8.8.8.8 and 8.8.4.4.
   

   

5. Click OK, then restart your computer to apply the changes.

Using a reliable public DNS can fix connectivity issues caused by default DNS servers. This solution offers a stable pathway for your device to connect to Fortnite’s servers and download updates smoothly.

5. Update Network Drivers (PC)

To ensure smooth and uninterrupted communication with Fortnite servers, make sure your network drivers are up to date.

1. Click on the Start button or press the Windows key.
2. Type “Device Manager” and select it from the search results.
   

   

3. In Device Manager, expand the Network adapters section.
   

   

4. Right-click on your network adapter and choose “Update driver”.
   

   

5. Select “Search automatically for updated driver software.”
   

   

6. Allow Windows to search and install any available updates.
7. Restart your computer to apply the changes.

Outdated or faulty drivers can cause connectivity issues. Keeping your drivers up to date ensures that your PC can connect to Fortnite servers without interruption.

6. Verify Game Files

Using the Epic Games Launcher, verify your game files to repair any corrupted or missing data.

1. Open the Epic Games Launcher.
   

   

2. Find Fortnite in your Epic Games Library.
3. Click the three dots next to the game title to access the options menu.
4. Select Manage, then click Verify.
   

   

5. Allow the verification process to complete; this may take some time.

This process detects and repairs corrupted or missing files, allowing Fortnite updates to proceed without interruption.

7. Reinstall Fortnite

If previous steps have not resolved the issue, a complete reinstallation is a reliable next step:

1. Uninstall Fortnite from your device through the Epic Games Launcher.
2. Redownload and install the latest version from the Epic Games Launcher.

A clean installation will ensure you have all the necessary, uncorrupted files for Fortnite, resolving deeper software conflicts that might prevent updates.

8. Use a Gaming VPN

Using a reputable gaming VPN can help bypass regional restrictions or network congestion affecting your Fortnite updates.

1. Install a trusted gaming VPN application.
2. Connect to an optimal VPN server and launch Fortnite again.
   

   

Certain regions may experience network-related barriers. A VPN can offer you a smoother connection to Fortnite’s servers by bypassing these issues.

9. System Firmware Update

Check and install any necessary system or firmware updates to maintain Fortnite compatibility and performance.

1. Right-click the Start button and select Settings.
   

   

2. Click on Windows Update in the sidebar.
   

   

3. Click Check for Updates to search for and install available system updates.
   

   

4. If your system is up to date, you’ll see a “You’re up to date” message.
   

   

5. If updates are available, follow the prompts to download and install them. Some updates may require a restart.

Updating your system helps prevent compatibility issues between Fortnite and your hardware or software, ensuring that updates and patches are applied successfully.

10. Contact Support

If none of the previous solutions resolve the problem, reach out to Epic Games Support for personalized assistance. The support team can provide individualized troubleshooting and help you resolve complex or rare issues that general guides may not address.

↪ Additional Tips

• Run the Epic Games Launcher as Administrator: Right-click the app and select “Run as administrator” to ensure it has the permissions needed for updates.

• Reset Network Settings: Resetting network settings can resolve deeper connectivity issues.
• Try a Different Internet Connection: If possible, connect through a different network. Sometimes, issues originate from your Internet Service Provider (ISP).

These tips are based on widely successful troubleshooting strategies, though your experience may vary based on device and circumstances. If you continue to encounter problems, do not hesitate to seek professional support from Epic Games.

Always consult the official Fortnite and Epic Games resources for the latest information and guidance. If you are unsure about any steps, proceed carefully and seek expert assistance when needed.