As of February 19, 2026, there was a scheduled maintenance window earlier today for the v39.50 update (09:00 – 10:30 UTC). Since a patch was released today, Error #1 often means your game version doesn’t match the server’s version.
If you are still seeing Matchmaking Error #1, it generally means your game client is struggling to connect to the servers, often because of a lingering sync issue after the update or an unstable local connection.
Here is how to resolve it:
1. Check for a Forced Update
Since a patch was released today, Error #1 often means your game version doesn’t match the server’s version.
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PC: Open the Epic Games Launcher, go to Library, click the three dots under the game, and select Manage > Verify. This will force an update check.
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Console: Close the game completely, press the “Options” or “Menu” button on the game tile, and select Check for Update.
2. The “Lobby Refresh” Trick (Most Effective)
If the servers are up but you’re still stuck, try this community-proven fix:
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Change your Matchmaking Region (Settings > Gear Icon > Matchmaking Region) to something else, then switch it back to Auto.
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Toggle Game Modes: Switch from Solo to Trios or Squads, then back to Solo. This forces the client to re-request a connection token.
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Toggle Cross-Play: If you have cross-play disabled, turn it back ON. Error #1 is frequently triggered when the game can’t find enough players with cross-play disabled.
Also Read : When will the Fortnite Servers be Back Up
3. Clear Network “Cobwebs”
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Restart your Router: Unplug it for 30 seconds. Post-update server traffic can sometimes cause “sticky” routing issues with your ISP.
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Flush DNS (PC): Open Command Prompt as Administrator and type:
ipconfig /flushdns -
Sync Your Clock: Ensure your system time is set to Automatic. If your local clock is even a few seconds off from Epic’s servers, the security handshake will fail.
4. Remove Custom Matchmaking Keys
Check the bottom right of your lobby screen. If there is a Custom Key entered (used for private matches or tournaments), delete it. Having an old or invalid key active will cause Error #1 every time you try to join a public match.
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