[BUG] Error 19000 (19k): authentication failed

The symptom: on launch, the game shows error 19000 and won’t send you into the universe.

Why: the server can’t authenticate your account. It mostly shows up when servers are overloaded, after a long absence or on patch day.

✅ The fix, in order 🟢

1. Check that your account has a Game Package (on the RSI website, in your hangar: a pack that includes Star Citizen).
2. Sign out of the launcher, wait a few minutes, then sign back in.
3. Keep only one launcher open (check in Task Manager).
4. Flush the DNS cache: ipconfig /flushdns in a Command Prompt run as administrator.
5. Sync your Windows clock.
6. Turn off your VPN and whitelist the game in your antivirus and firewall.
7. Run a Verify in the launcher.

😏 On patch night, the 19k is part of the experience. Think of it as a queue with character.

Key: 🟢 official CIG fix · 🟡 community tip, no guarantees · 🔴 no workaround, you’ll have to wait for a fix.

🆘 Still stuck?

Work through the first-aid kit in order, then report the bug properly. Found another tip that works? Post it as a reply and we’ll add it to this sheet with credit.

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Sheet 06 · Alpha 4.10.2 LIVE, updated 19 October 2026. Sources: RSI support (Known Issues 4.10.2), patch notes and Community Tech Support on Spectrum. Star Citizen is a game by Cloud Imperium Games.