Due to fast-paced action, building mechanics and regular updates, Fortnite has remained one of the most popular multiplayer games in the world. It was developed by Epic Games. Even such a well-organized game is not immune to errors and glitches. “Matchmaking Error#1” is one of the most frustrating issues which players come across. Players are prevented from joining a match by this error. It effectively blocks access to Fornite’s core gameplay.
We will cover what Matchmaking Error#1 in Fornite is, explore the causes and provide proven solutions to fix it so players can get back to enjoy the game.
What is Matchmaking Error #1 in Fortnite?
When Fortnite fails to connect a player to a game sever or match, Matchmaking Error #1 occurs. Players are usually kicked out of the matchmaking queue or blocked from entering a game, when this error appears. The error frequently shows up with a message like:
“Matchmaking Error #1 – Unable to join matchmaking queue.”
In any of Fortnite’s game modes, this issue can occur such as Solo, Duo, Squad and Limited-Time (LTM) and it disrupts the game’s most important functionality, connecting players to a match.
Common Causes of Matchmaking Error #1 in Fortnite
It is important to understand what causes the issue to effectively fix it. Matchmaking Error occurs due to variety of network, system or server-related problems. Most common reasons are given below:
1.Epic Games Server Issues
Fortnite’s matchmaking servers experience outages or maintenance, sometimes. This is one of the most frequent causes for Matchmaking Error # 1.
2.Poor Internet Connection
Communication between your device and the game’s servers can be interrupted due to a slow or unstable internet connection and causes matchmaking to fail.
3.Corrupted Game Files
Corrupted or missing Fortnite files may hinder with the matchmaking process if core files related to networking are affected.
4.Outdated Game Client
Compatibility issues can occur using an outdated version of Fortnite with the game servers which result in matchmaking errors.
5.Platform Server Problems (PlayStation, Xbox, etc.)
The problem lies not with Fortnite itself but with your console’s or platfom’s network (e.g PSN or Xbox Live), sometimes.
6.Incorrect Game Region
Matchmaking errors may occur more frequently if your game region is set to a distant location with high ping and low server availability.
7.Third-Party Software Conflicts
Firewalls, VPNs and antivirus may block Fortnite’s connection to matchmaking servers.
How to Fix Matchmaking Error #1 in Fortnite
Lets’s look at effective solutions to fix what causes Matchmaking Error # 1. One or more of the following methods may resolve the problem, depending on the root cause:
1.Check Fortnite Server Status
Check if the problem lies with Epic Games, before trying any other fix.
How to Check:
- Visit the official Epic Games Status page: https://status.epicgames.com
- Look for any issues with Fortnite services, especially “Matchmaking” and “Game Services.”
- You will need to wait until Epic resolves the issue, if servers are down or under maintenance.
2.Restart Your Game and Device
A simple restart can clear temporary bugs or memory issues, sometimes.
Steps:
- Close Fortnite completely
- Restart your console or PC
- Then reopen Fortnite and try to join a match again
3.Test and Improve Your Internet Connection
A major cause of matchmaking problems are unstable connections.
Fixes:
- Use a wired Ethernet connection instead of Wi-Fi
- Restart your router or modem
- Run a speed test to ensure your ping and bandwidth meet Fortnite’s requirements (ping under 100ms is ideal)
- While playing, avoid downloading or streaming on other devices.
4.Update Fortnite to the Latest Version
An outdated version of Fornite when run can result in server mismatch.
Steps:
- Open Epic Games Launcher
- Go to Library
- Find Fortnite and click on the Update button if available
- Now allow the update to install fully and restart the game
5.Verify Game Files
Fortnite can be prevented from functioning properly due to corrupted or missing files.
Steps:
- Open Epic Games Launcher
- Go to Library
- Click the three dots next to Fortnite and select Manage
- Click on Verify
- Wait for the process to complete and relaunch Fortnite
6.Change Matchmaking Region
If you’re connecting to a distant server with high latency, Fortnite may throw matchmaking errors.
Fortnite may throw matchmaking errors if you are connecting to a distant server with high latency.
Steps:
- Go to Settings in Fortnite
- Navigate to the Game tab
- Scroll to Matchmaking Region
- Set it to Auto or choose the region with the lowest ping
7.Disable VPN and Security Software
VPNs or security software may interfere with Fortnite’s servers.
Fixes:
- While playing Fortnite disable any VPN service.
- Temporarily turn off antivirus or firewall software and test matchmaking (re-enable afterward)
- Then add Fortnite and Epic Games Launcher to your firewall/antivirus exception list
Bonus Tips to Prevent Future Matchmaking Errors
- Keep your operating system and GPU drivers updated
- Cache files and temporary folders must be cleaned regularly.
- Background apps that consume bandwidth must be avoided.
- For better account security, enable two-factor Authentication (2FA) on your Epic Games
Conclusion
Matchmaking Error # 1 is not permanent and can be annoying experience. Players can quickly resolve the issue and return to their battle royale adventures, by understanding what causes this error and following the troubleshooting steps mentioned above. There is always a fix available whether it’s a server-side issue, a network glitch or a local game configuration error.
