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How to fix ‘the authentication servers are currently not reachable’ in Minecraft

Errors are no fun.

On most days, you can easily open Minecraft, join a single-player world or server, and play with friends whenever you wish. Sometimes, though, you’ll run into errors that make it impossible to join, with “the authentication servers are currently not reachable” being one of the most well-known.

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What causes this error? Is there any way to fix it? That’s what we’re here to talk about. Let’s talk about how to fix Minecraft’s ‘the authentication servers are currently not reachable’ error.

How to fix Minecraft’s ‘the authentication servers are currently not reachable’ error

The main cause of Minecraft’s “the authentication servers are currently not reachable” error lies in the game’s servers rather than a client-side problem. In most cases, Minecraft’s servers are down, and it’s a matter of waiting until Mojang resolves the issue.

Minecraft authentication servers down error
Screenshot by Destructoid

While Minecraft’s servers being down is usually the reason why this error appears, it can occasionally link to specific client-side issues. Here are some steps you can take to resolve the problem:

  • Check Minecraft’s server status using resources like Downdetector. Always do this first before taking other steps!
  • Restart Minecraft
  • Update Minecraft if a new version was recently released.
  • Sign out and sign back into your Minecraft account.
  • Check your internet connection. Restart your router and modem if you’re having internet connection issues.
  • Shut down and restart your PC or console.

In the rare cases where Minecraft’s authentication error is a client-side issue, these steps will typically resolve it, letting you return to the game and continue playing. In even rarer situations, it’s a deep-rooted issue with your system, which you can double-check using the official Minecraft help page.

How to check Minecraft’s server status

The easiest way to check Minecraft’s server status is to use pages like Downdetector to see if the game is offline. Sites like this detail whether the issue is a server connection problem, a log-in issue, or something completely unrelated. In short, if a ton of people are reporting errors, chances are it’s not a problem on your end.

What you do from here depends on whether Minecraft’s servers are down. If pages like Downdetector suggest they are, you can check spots like the official Mojang Status Twitter (X) page to see if Mojang has publicly addressed the error.

If you’ve tackled the “the authentication servers are currently not reachable” error but are experiencing a different problem, you can also visit Minecraft’s help page to search for the information you need. In most cases, this site will detail specific errors and some tips for fixing them, such as checking your internet connection, checking status pages for Xbox or PlayStation, or updating your game.


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Author
Image of Madison Benson
Madison Benson
Staff Writer
Staff Writer - Madison has been a long-time fan of all things gaming since her adventures playing Heroes of Might and Magic over 20 years ago. She began her journalism career in 2021 and often enjoys casual life sims, MMORPGs, and action-adventure RPGs in her spare time.