🎮 Game Error Codes What it means & how to fix it

Elden Ring Can't Summon or Connect? Here's the Fix

Most Elden Ring co-op failures come down to three things: mismatched multiplayer passwords, being in different areas/boss states, or a NAT/firewall blocking FromSoftware's peer connection. The fastest fix: set the SAME multiplayer password on both players, make sure you're both in the same region of the map and haven't beaten the area's boss, then place and pick up the summon sign. Steps below, in order.

Elden Ring co-op — the matchmaking rules that block a summon

Level match range
host level ±10, plus 10% of host level
Second hidden filter
highest weapon upgrade EVER reached on that character (lifetime, cannot be lowered) — a +10 weapon won't match new characters
Bypass both filters
set the same Multiplayer Password on all players (Network menu) — overleveled phantoms get stat-scaled down
Co-op cap
host + 2 cooperators = 3 players max

Last verified: September 2026

Error codes

Failed to summon / summoning sign not appearing The host cannot see or use the co-op partner's sign

Cause: Different multiplayer passwords, one player has already defeated the area boss, or you're too far apart in level/area.

Fix:
  1. Both players set the identical Multiplayer Password in Settings > Network.
  2. The host must not have beaten the local boss — a cleared area removes summon signs.
  3. Use the Furlcalling Finger Remedy (host) and the Tarnished's Furled Finger (guest) in the same area.
  4. If using no password, level/weapon-upgrade gaps limit matchmaking — a password bypasses most range limits.
A network error has occurred / connection failed The peer-to-peer co-op session could not be established

Cause: Strict NAT, firewall blocking, or a temporary FromSoftware server issue.

Fix:
  1. Set NAT to Open: enable UPnP on your router or forward the game's ports to your PC.
  2. Allow eldenring.exe through Windows Firewall and your antivirus.
  3. Confirm cross-region play is on and check the FromSoftware server status before retrying.
  4. Use a wired connection; Wi-Fi NAT often blocks the peer handshake.

Fixes that work for most Elden Ring errors

  1. Set an identical Multiplayer Password on both players — it fixes most 'can't summon' cases and widens matchmaking range.
  2. Stay in the same map region and don't defeat the area boss until you've summoned help.
  3. Host uses Furlcalling Finger Remedy; guest lays down the Tarnished's Furled Finger sign nearby.
  4. Enable UPnP / Open NAT on the router so the peer-to-peer session can connect.
  5. Allow eldenring.exe through the firewall and antivirus on both PCs.
  6. Use a wired Ethernet connection to avoid Wi-Fi NAT blocking the co-op handshake.
  7. Check FromSoftware server status and confirm both players are on the same game patch after any update.

FAQ

Why can't I summon my friend in Elden Ring?

Usually your multiplayer passwords don't match, or the host has already beaten the area boss. Set the same password on both players and summon before clearing the boss.

How do I fix Elden Ring co-op connection errors?

Set an Open NAT (enable UPnP), allow eldenring.exe through the firewall, use a wired connection, and confirm both players are on the same patch with cross-region play enabled.

Do passwords matter for Elden Ring co-op?

Yes. A shared multiplayer password bypasses most level and weapon-upgrade matchmaking limits and is the single most reliable way to connect with a specific friend.

Why does Elden Ring say a network error occurred?

The peer-to-peer session failed — usually a strict NAT or firewall. Enable UPnP for Open NAT, allow the game through the firewall, and check FromSoftware's server status.

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