Dead by Daylight, the popular asymmetrical horror survival game by Behaviour Interactive, offers heart-racing gameplay and a unique multiplayer experience. However, for all its thrills, it isn’t without problems. A common and frustrating issue faced by many players is Error Code 8012. This error typically indicates a problem with connecting to the game’s server and prevents players from accessing the game entirely.

TLDR (Too Long; Didn’t Read)

Error Code 8012 in Dead by Daylight is usually related to server-side issues, user connection problems, or account authentication errors. To fix it, start with basic troubleshooting: check the game’s servers, examine your network connection, and ensure your anti-virus isn’t blocking the game. In some cases, deeper solutions like changing DNS settings or contacting support may be necessary. Follow the step-by-step guide below to systematically fix the issue and get back into the game.

What is Error Code 8012?

Error Code 8012 is a network-related issue that prevents players from logging into the game. It is often phrased alongside messages like “Cannot connect to online services.” In most cases, this error originates due to:

• Server connectivity issues from the game’s side
• Blocked ports or restricted network access
• Conflicts with anti-virus or firewall software
• Problems with your internet service provider (ISP)
• Steam or console network outages

This problem usually surfaces when Dead by Daylight servers go down for maintenance or are under heavy load. However, it can also be a unique issue specific to your setup that needs direct fixing.

Step-by-Step Solutions to Fix Error Code 8012

1. Check Dead by Daylight Server Status

Before changing anything on your end, verify that the problem is not coming from the game’s servers. Visiting the official Dead by Daylight server status page or checking third-party outage websites like DownDetector can provide real-time reports from other users who may be facing the same issue.

If server maintenance is ongoing, you’ll just need to wait until the servers come back online.

2. Restart the Game and Steam or Console

This may seem basic, but it often resolves temporary glitches. Fully exit the game and close out of Steam or your gaming console. Make sure the process is not running in the background. Then, relaunch everything and see if the issue persists.

3. Inspect Your Internet Connection

Unstable or limited internet connections are common culprits. Here’s what you can do:

• Restart your router and modem
• Use a wired Ethernet connection instead of Wi-Fi for stability
• Run a speed test to confirm you’ve got a reliable connection
• Disable VPN usage if you’re using one

If you suspect your ISP might be blocking certain ports, contact them or consider switching to a different network temporarily to test the game.

4. Run Dead by Daylight and Steam as Administrator

Running the game with elevated privileges can overcome permission-related issues that prevent it from accessing the internet. Here’s how:

1. Right-click on the Steam or Dead by Daylight shortcut
2. Select Run as administrator

After the game launches, try connecting again to see if Error Code 8012 gets resolved.

5. Disable Your Firewall or Anti-virus Temporarily

Security software may mistakenly block Dead by Daylight’s traffic, triggering Error Code 8012. Temporarily disabling your firewall and any antivirus software can help confirm if they are the source of the problem. If the error disappears while your antivirus is off, add Dead by Daylight as an exception to your firewall and antivirus whitelist settings.

Be sure to re-enable your security software after testing to keep your system protected.

6. Flush Your DNS and Reset Network Configurations

Sometimes, outdated or corrupted DNS caches can interfere with your game’s ability to connect to the server. Follow these steps:

1. Open Command Prompt as an administrator
2. Type the following commands and press Enter after each:
• ipconfig /flushdns
• ipconfig /release
• ipconfig /renew
3. Restart your PC

After rebooting, re-launch Dead by Daylight to check if the error is resolved.

7. Change DNS Server Settings

Using a public DNS can help bypass regional filtering or ISP issues. You can change your DNS to Google’s or Cloudflare’s as follows:

1. Open Network and Sharing Center (on Windows)
2. Click on your active network, then click Properties
3. Select Internet Protocol Version 4 (TCP/IPv4)
4. Set the DNS to:
• Google DNS: 8.8.8.8 and 8.8.4.4
• Cloudflare DNS: 1.1.1.1 and 1.0.0.1

Apply changes and restart your network adapter or reboot your PC before testing the game again.

8. Reinstall Dead by Daylight

If none of the above steps work, it’s possible the installation is corrupted. Make sure to:

• Uninstall Dead by Daylight from your system
• Delete any residual folders in Steam’s directory or related save files (backing them up if needed)
• Reinstall the latest version of the game from scratch

After reinstalling, log in and test to see if Error 8012 has been resolved.

9. Contact Behaviour Interactive Support

If you’ve tried all the methods listed above without success, reaching out to Behaviour Interactive’s official support is the final and most effective measure. Make sure to include all relevant information such as when the error started, your platform, steps you’ve taken to troubleshoot, and your account details. They may be able to track internal issues or provide you specialized instructions.

You can submit a support request at their official support page.

Conclusion

Getting locked out of Dead by Daylight due to Error Code 8012 can be incredibly frustrating, particularly if you’re set on escaping the killer or hunting down survivors. Fortunately, in many cases, the fix lies in one of the straightforward steps above. By methodically testing your network, software, and settings — and consulting Behaviour Interactive if needed — you can often resolve the problem and return to gameplay quickly.

Remember that game errors, though disruptive, are also common in online multiplayer titles. While the causes vary, the fixes are usually within reach for most players. Stay patient, test solutions systematically, and you’ll be back in the fog in no time.