How to Fix Error Code 8012 in Dead By Daylight

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Dead by Daylight is a widely popular asymmetrical multiplayer horror game that relies heavily on a stable online connection for both survivors and killers to function effectively in matches. However, many players have encountered the frustrating Error Code 8012, a connectivity-related issue that prevents access to the game’s servers. This kind of interruption can be a major problem, especially if you’re looking to enjoy a gaming session with friends or climb the leaderboard ranks. In this guide, we’ll break down everything you need to know to identify, understand, and fix Error Code 8012 in Dead by Daylight efficiently and safely.

Contents

TLDR: Quick Summary

Error Code 8012 in Dead by Daylight indicates a connection problem between your client and the servers, usually linked to your internet connection, game files, or the game servers themselves. Often, the issue can be resolved by restarting your router, verifying game integrity through Steam, or checking server status. If none of the basic fixes work, deeper steps such as configuring your firewall or reinstalling the game might be necessary. Always ensure your software and drivers are up to date.

What Is Error Code 8012?

Before you attempt to fix the issue, it’s important to understand what Error Code 8012 signifies. It indicates a failure in establishing a secure connection to the game servers via the Easy Anti-Cheat (EAC) system. When this connection fails, the game blocks access to online play to prevent possible cheating or networking inconsistencies.

This error usually appears with the message: “Cannot connect to online services. Please check your internet connection or try again later. (Error Code: 8012)”.

Common Causes of Error Code 8012

Understanding the root cause can make fixing Error Code 8012 much quicker. The most frequent causes include:

  • Server issues on the Dead by Daylight back-end or with Easy Anti-Cheat.
  • Network instability or configuration problems on the user’s end.
  • Corrupted game files or missing EAC components.
  • Firewall or antivirus programs blocking necessary connections.

Step-By-Step Guide to Fix Error Code 8012

1. Check Server Status

The first thing to do is rule out server-side issues. Developers sometimes perform maintenance or encounter unexpected downtime, which can lead to widespread error messages like 8012.

To check:

  • Visit the official Dead by Daylight website or social media pages.
  • Check the DownDetector page for reports of issues with DBD or Easy Anti-Cheat.

If you find that the servers are down, there’s nothing more you can do until service is resumed.

2. Restart Your Router and PC

Basic network troubleshooting can resolve a surprising number of issues. Start fresh by restarting both your modem/router and your PC:

  1. Turn off your computer.
  2. Unplug the router and modem from power for at least 30 seconds.
  3. Reconnect them and wait for full connectivity to return.
  4. Restart your PC and launch Dead by Daylight again.

This process helps clear any IP conflicts or minor network issues that may affect multiplayer connections.

3. Run Dead by Daylight as Administrator

Many connection issues can be resolved by launching the game with administrative privileges, ensuring that it has full access to system resources and network functions.

Follow these steps:

  • Right-click the Dead by Daylight shortcut or executable file.
  • Select “Run as Administrator.”
  • Also, make sure Steam is running as administrator if you’re launching the game through it.

4. Verify Game Files

A corrupted or incomplete installation can lead to all sorts of problems, including Error Code 8012. Luckily, Steam makes it easy to verify file integrity:

  1. Open your Steam client and go to your Library.
  2. Right-click on Dead by Daylight and choose Properties.
  3. Click the Installed Files tab and then select “Verify integrity of game files.”

This will begin a scan and automatically repair missing or corrupted files.

5. Repair Easy Anti-Cheat (EAC)

Since Error Code 8012 is heavily tied to Easy Anti-Cheat, repairing this component often resolves the problem:

  1. Navigate to the EAC executable. Typically, this is found at:
    C:\Program Files (x86)\EasyAntiCheat\EasyAntiCheat_Setup.exe
  2. Open the setup and select Dead by Daylight from the drop-down list.
  3. Click Repair Service.
  4. Once complete, restart your system and try opening the game again.

6. Temporarily Disable Antivirus/Firewall

Security software may mistake game’s behaviors for suspicious activity and block connections. Temporarily disabling antivirus and firewall software can identify if this is the cause:

  • Turn off third-party antivirus programs.
  • Open your firewall settings and either disable it temporarily or add exceptions for Dead by Daylight and EAC.
  • Be cautious and only disable these programs long enough to test the game connection.

7. Change DNS Settings

Using Google’s public DNS servers can sometimes improve connectivity and resolve access issues:

  1. Go to Control Panel > Network and Internet > Network and Sharing Center.
  2. Click “Change adapter settings” on the left side.
  3. Right-click your active connection and choose Properties.
  4. Click on Internet Protocol Version 4 (TCP/IPv4) and then Properties.
  5. Set DNS to:
    • Preferred DNS server: 8.8.8.8
    • Alternate DNS server: 8.8.4.4

8. Reinstall Dead by Daylight

If all else fails, reinstalling the game might be necessary. This ensures that all game files and anti-cheat components are cleanly and correctly installed from scratch:

  1. Backup any custom settings or configuration files if needed.
  2. Uninstall the game through Steam.
  3. Navigate to the game’s old installation directory and delete any remaining folders manually.
  4. Download and reinstall via Steam.

Be sure to also reinstall Easy Anti-Cheat during this process for best results.

When to Contact Support

If you’ve tried all of these steps and Error Code 8012 still persists, it’s time to reach out to Dead by Daylight’s official support.

Provide detailed information about:

  • Your platform and system specs.
  • The steps you’ve already tried.
  • Any specific error messages or logs you’ve encountered.

The support team may be able to identify a more specific issue related to your account or device.

Conclusion

Error Code 8012 in Dead by Daylight may be frustrating, but it’s usually fixable with the right combination of troubleshooting methods. Always start with the simplest fixes like checking server status and rebooting your router, and work your way up to more advanced solutions. The key is to isolate the source—whether it’s a server error, local configuration issue, or software conflict—and to take systematic steps to correct it.

Keeping your system updated, files verified, and security software properly configured will also prevent similar issues in the future. With patience and a methodical approach, you’ll be back in The Fog in no time.