FFXIV Unable to Download Patch Files – Ultimate Guide to Fix the Issue

1. Introduction
2. What does patching files mean?
3. What is the “Unable to Update Patch Files” error is
4. Fix 1: Disable Antivirus Temporarily
5. Fix 2: Use a VPN
6. Fix 3: Change DNS Server
7. Fix 4: Delete the 4e9a232b Subfolder
8. Fix 5: Run FFXIV as Administrator
9. Fix 6: Turn off Windows Defender Firewall
10. Fix 7: Shut Down All Background Processes
11. Fix 8: Free up Drive Space
12. Fix 9: Resetting Permissions
13. Fix 10: Temporary Issue, Wait
14. Conclusion

1. Introduction

Final Fantasy XIV (FFXIV) is a popular MMORPG that frequently releases updates and patches to keep the game fresh and bug-free. However, sometimes players encounter the “Unable to Download Patch Files” error, which can be frustrating. This comprehensive guide will provide step-by-step solutions to fix this issue, so you can get back to enjoying your game.

2. What does patching files mean?

Patching files refers to updating game files to fix bugs, add new features, or improve performance. Game developers release patches to ensure players have the best gaming experience possible.

3. What is the “Unable to Update Patch Files” error is

The “Unable to Update Patch Files” error occurs when players cannot download and install the necessary patch files for FFXIV. This can happen for various reasons, including issues with antivirus software, internet connectivity, and file permissions.

4. Fix 1: Disable Antivirus Temporarily

disable antivirus software temporarily

Antivirus software can sometimes interfere with the downloading of patch files. To resolve this issue, try disabling your antivirus software temporarily.

5. Fix 2: Use a VPN

connect to a VPN server

Using a Virtual Private Network (VPN) can help bypass any regional restrictions or ISP-related issues that may be causing the error. Connect to a VPN server and try downloading the patch files again.

6. Fix 3: Change DNS Server

change DNS server to Google

Changing your DNS server to Google’s public DNS can help resolve the issue. To do this, follow these steps:

Open the Control Panel
Click on “Network and Internet”
Click on “Network and Sharing Center”
Click on “Change adapter settings.”
Right-click your active network connection and click on “Properties.”
Double-click on “Internet Protocol Version 4 (TCP/IPv4)”
Select “Use the following DNS server addresses.”
Enter “8.8.8.8” as the preferred DNS server and “8.8.4.4” as the alternate DNS server.
Click “OK” to save your changes.

7. Fix 4: Delete the 4e9a232b Subfolder

delete 4e9a232b subfolder

A problematic folder may cause the “Unable to Download Patch Files” error. Delete the “4e9a232b” subfolder from your FFXIV installation directory to fix this issue.

8. Fix 5: Run FFXIV as Administrator

Running FFXIV as an administrator can help resolve permission-related issues causing the error. To do this, right-click the FFXIV launcher icon and select “Run as administrator.”

9. Fix 6: Turn off Windows Defender Firewall

turn off Windows Defender Firewall

Windows Defender Firewall may be blocking the necessary connections for downloading patch files. To temporarily disable the firewall, follow these steps:

Type “Windows Defender Firewall” in the Windows search bar and open it
Click on “Turn Windows Defender Firewall on or off” in the left pane
Select “Turn off Windows Defender Firewall (not recommended)” for both private and public network settings
Click “OK” to save your changes

After disabling the firewall, try downloading the patch files again. Don’t forget to turn the firewall back on once the issue is resolved.

10. Fix 7: Shut Down All Background Processes

end background processes in Task Manager

Background processes may interfere with the downloading of patch files. To shut down all non-essential background processes, follow these steps:

Press “Ctrl + Shift + Esc” to open the Task Manager
Click on the “Processes” tab
Right-click on any non-essential background process and select “End task.”

Repeat this process for all non-essential background processes, then try downloading the patch files again.

11. Fix 8: Free up Drive Space

Insufficient drive space may cause the “Unable to Download Patch Files” error. To free up Space on your drive, try the following:

Uninstall unnecessary applications
Delete temporary files and folders
Empty the recycle bin
Move large files to an external storage device

12. Fix 9: Resetting Permissions

free up drive space

Incorrect file or folder permissions can cause issues when downloading patch files. To reset permissions, follow these steps:

Right-click on your FFXIV installation folder and select “Properties.”
Click on the “Security” tab
Click on “Advanced”
Click on “Change Permissions”
Click on “Add”
Type “Everyone” in the “Enter the object name” field and click “Check Names”
Click “OK” and ensure “Full control” is selected
Click “OK” to apply the changes

reset file permissions

13. Fix 10: Temporary Issue, Wait

If none of the above solutions work, the issue may be temporary and related to the game servers. In this case, waiting a few hours or a day before trying again may resolve the problem. Keep an eye on the official FFXIV forums or social media for updates on any ongoing issues.

14. Conclusion

The “Unable to Download Patch Files” error in FFXIV can be frustrating, but with the help of this comprehensive guide, you should be able to resolve the issue and get back to enjoying your game. Try each solution individually and search for the specified Google Images keywords to find visual instructions for each step. If you’re still experiencing issues after trying all the answers, consider contacting the FFXIV support team for further assistance. They will be able to provide more specific guidance based on your situation.

Remember, patience and persistence are essential when troubleshooting any technical issue. Keep trying different solutions; eventually, you’ll find the one that works for you. We hope this guide has helped resolve the “Unable to Download Patch Files” error in FFXIV, allowing you to get back to enjoying the game.