Fixed : Error Code Hillcat in Call of Duty

The “Error Code Hillcat” in Call of Duty (most commonly reported in Modern Warfare II, Warzone, and upcoming titles like Black Ops 6) is primarily a network-related issue that prevents the game from checking for or downloading updates.

This often manifests as the game getting stuck on “checking for updates” and then displaying the Hillcat error.

Here’s a breakdown of common causes and solutions:

Common Causes:

• DNS Issues: Your Internet Service Provider’s (ISP) DNS servers might be struggling to resolve the necessary game update servers.
• Network Connectivity Problems: General instability, firewalls, or other network settings can interfere with the game’s connection.
• Corrupted Game Files/Cache: Sometimes, local game files or download caches can become corrupted, preventing updates.
• Server-Side Issues: Less frequently, the problem might be on Activision’s end, with their game servers experiencing issues.

Solutions (Try these in order, moving to the next if the previous doesn’t work):

1. Change Your DNS Servers: 

   • This is one of the most widely reported fixes.
   • Google DNS: Change your preferred DNS to 8.8.8.8 and alternate to 8.8.4.4.
   • Cloudflare DNS: Change your preferred DNS to 1.1.1.1 and alternate to 1.0.0.1.
   • How to change DNS: This is done in your network adapter settings (for PC) or your console’s network settings. You can usually find guides online for your specific operating system or console.

2. Use a VPN (Temporarily): 

   • Many users have found success by using a VPN, especially to connect to a server in a different region (e.g., if you’re in the UK, try a US server; if in the US, try a UK/EU server).
   • Start the game with the VPN active, let it complete the update, then you might be able to turn off the VPN and play normally.

3. Reset Network Configuration (PC):

   • Open Command Prompt as administrator.
   • Type the following commands one by one, pressing Enter after each:
     • netsh winsock reset
     • ipconfig /flushdns
     • ipconfig /release
     • ipconfig /renew
     • netsh int ip reset
   • Restart your PC.

4. Clear Download Cache (Steam/Launcher):

   • Steam: Go to Steam > Settings > Downloads > Clear Download Cache.
   • Close Steam, restart your PC, and then try opening the game again.
   • For other launchers (Battle.net, Xbox app), look for similar options to clear caches or repair game files.

5. Restart Your Network Hardware:

   • Unplug your modem and router from power for 30 seconds to 1 minute.
   • Plug them back in and wait for them to fully restart before trying the game again.

6. Use a Mobile Hotspot (Console/PC):

   • Temporarily connect your console or PC to your phone’s mobile hotspot.
   • Launch the game and let it update. Once the update is done, you can switch back to your main internet connection.

7. Verify Game File Integrity:

   • Steam: In your Steam Library, right-click on the Call of Duty game > Properties > Local Files > Verify integrity of game files.
   • Similar options exist for Battle.net and other launchers.

8. Disable IPv6 (Temporarily): Some users have reported success by disabling Internet Protocol Version 6 (IPv6) in their network adapter settings, leaving only IPv4 enabled.

9. Check for Windows/Driver Updates: Ensure your operating system and graphics drivers are fully updated.

10. Check Activision Support/Community Forums: If none of the above work, check the official Activision support website or community forums for the specific Call of Duty title you’re playing. There might be server status updates or more specific troubleshooting steps.

Also Read : Solved : Call of Duty Stuck on Checking for Update PS5

🧩 Quick Fix Table

The Hillcat error is usually related to how your network connects to the game’s update servers. By addressing potential network and DNS issues, you have a good chance of resolving it.