Arc Raiders ARAU Error Codes — Authentication Failed Fix
Login and online services errors
ARAU errors occur at the authentication layer—before matchmaking even begins. The game client cannot verify your identity with Epic Online Services or Embark’s backend. These are distinct from ARMR errors (matchmaking) and AREX errors (in-raid).
ARAU0287
Meaning: Authentication handshake failed. Epic Online Services could not verify the session.
Fix: Restart game, restart Epic launcher if applicable, check Epic Online Services status at status.epicgames.com, sync Windows clock (Settings → Time → Sync Now).
ARAU0297
Meaning: Online services authentication timeout. The request completed but the backend did not respond in time.
Fix: Often caused by high server load during patch days or Expedition launches. Wait 10–15 minutes and retry. Check arcstatus.com for active incidents.
Why does syncing the Windows clock fix ARAU errors?
Authentication tokens are time-sensitive. A desynchronized system clock causes token validation to fail even when servers are healthy. Always sync your clock (Settings → Time & Language → Sync Now) before blaming the servers.
ARAU vs ARMR — what’s the difference?
ARAU = authentication. It happens before matchmaking. If you can’t connect at all or get kicked to the title screen, it’s likely ARAU.
ARMR = matchmaking. If you can reach the main menu but not get into a match, it’s ARMR. See our ARMR0002 fix guide and homepage live status.