The main reason is usually unstable RAM caused by XMP settings in your BIOS. Other possible causes are old graphics drivers, programs running in the background, or damaged game files. Now that you know the possible causes, here are methods you can use to fix Battlefield 2042 crashing or not starting on your PC.
1. Run Battlefield 2042 as an administrator
The first step is to run both the Battlefield 2042 executable and its launcher with administrator rights. This gives the game the necessary permissions to access important Windows components it might otherwise be blocked from.
2. Disable or uninstall third-party antivirus
Overprotective antivirus software can sometimes prevent Battlefield 2042 from loading correctly. Zone Alarm Extreme Security and AVG (Free Version) are known to cause issues, but other security suites might also interfere. Note: We recommend uninstalling the antivirus to make sure nothing remains that could conflict with the game.
3. Update GPU drivers (PC Only)
Using outdated or incompatible graphics card drivers can cause Battlefield 2042 to crash or fail to load. Make sure your GPU drivers are up to date. Tip: If you want to be absolutely sure you have the latest drivers, use your manufacturer’s update apps:
GeForce Experience — For Nvidia cardsAdrenalin — For AMD cards
4. Disable Game Mode in Windows
Some players have found that disabling Windows Game Mode resolves crashes. The exact reason is unclear, but turning off Game Mode has helped many users.
5. Disable Overlay Features
Overlay programs like Nvidia Experience and Discord can sometimes conflict with Battlefield 2042, causing crashes. Try disabling or uninstalling these overlays one by one.
5.1. Disable NVIDIA Overlay
5.2. Disable Discord Overlay
5.3. Uninstall Overlay Software
If an overlay tool doesn’t have a toggle, you can remove it:
6. Install Windows Media Feature Pack
Battlefield 2042 sometimes needs the Windows Media Feature Pack for certain game elements to work. PCs running the “N” versions of Windows, or some region-specific versions, often don’t have this by default.
7. Download and Install Visual C++ Redistributable Packages
Missing Visual C++ Redistributable Packages can prevent Battlefield 2042 from running. Installing these packages can often fix launch and crash issues.
8. Repair Battlefield 2042 via Origin
Corrupt or missing files can stop Battlefield 2042 from running. Origin’s repair feature can scan and fix these files for you.
9. Ensure EasyAntiCheat Is Installed
EasyAntiCheat is essential for Battlefield 2042 to run. If this anti-cheat service isn’t installed or is corrupted, the game will crash or refuse to launch. If needed, check more on fixing anti-cheat engines here.
10. Change Max Link Speed from AUTO to Gen 3 in BIOS/UEFI
With certain powerful graphics cards, leaving the Max Link Speed in your BIOS/UEFI on “AUTO” can limit your GPU’s capability and cause crashes. Setting it to Gen 3 dedicates more bandwidth and can resolve these errors. Need more help with BIOS? See this BIOS/UEFI guide.
