FIX: S.T.A.L.K.E.R. 2: Heart of Chornobyl Lagging In Multiplayer on PC (2024)

Are you excited to dive into the haunting world of S.T.A.L.K.E.R. 2 Heart of Chornobyl, but finding constant lag ruining your experience? Don’t worry, because you’re not alone! Many players have faced similar issues, but we’ve got some simple solutions to help you enjoy the game smoothly. Whether it’s a pesky internet connection or an update that’s slipped by, our guide will walk you through step-by-step fixes tailored just for S.T.A.L.K.E.R. 2.

Solution 1: Check Your Internet Connection for any Issues

To fix freezing on STALKER 2, it’s important to examine your internet connection.

Here are 5 steps to troubleshoot any connection issues:

1. Check Wi-Fi signal strength: Move closer to your Wi-Fi router ensuring the connection is not unstable.
2. Test internet speed: Use a reliable tool likeSpeedTest.netto measure your internet speed. If the speed is slow or below the recommended requirements for STALKER 2, contact your internet service provider to address the issue.
3. Restart your networking devices: Turn off your Wi-Fi router and cable modem, then wait for a few seconds(20) before turning them back on.
4. Minimize bandwidth usage: Make sure no other devices or applications on your network are consuming excessive bandwidth while playing Diablo 4.
5. Consider a wired connection: If possible, connect your gaming device directly to the router using an Ethernet cable. Wired connections tend to be more stable and reliable for online gaming.

If these connection fixes don’t work, you can try resetting your network settings on Windows to potentially address stuttering issues.

Solution 2: Clear DNS Cache and Data on PC

DNS translates website names into computer-readable IP addresses. Windows 11 stores DNS data to speed up website access, but this cache can become outdated or corrupted, causing issues.

Clearing the cache forces your computer to get the most recent data from DNS, fixing issues with website access or slow browsing.

Here’s how to clear DNS cache?

1. Click on theWindowsstart iconin the bottom left corner.
2. Then presstheWindows key + R.
   
3. The Run box will appear.
4. Typecmd, and click on OK.
5. Then on thecmd window, enter the following commands:(Note: Type the following commands, and hit Enter after every command)
   1. “ipconfig/flushdns”
   2. “ipconfig/registerdns”
   3. “ipconfig/release”
   4. “ipconfig/renew”
   5. Close the window.

See Also

Disabling MPO (Multiplace Overlay) can improve some desktop apps flicker or stutter issues

Now after clearing the DNS Cache and Data, it’s time to set your DNS settings automatically on yourPC/laptopto fix lagging on PC while playing STALKER 2.

Solution 3: Update S.T.A.L.K.E.R. 2 Heart of Chornobyl

For critical errors like freezing, publishers release updates for an optimized and smooth gaming experience. It’s wise to check for any update released before troubleshooting other possible issues.

Playing with outdated versions can also lead to technical glitches, compatibility issues, or even missing out on new content. Here’s how to keep any game updated using its dedicated launcher:

Open the Game Launcher and from its settings locate “Update” Options. Either enable automatic updates or do a manual update if there are any. Restart the Launcher and check if you are still facing stuttering.

Solution 4: Close Intensive/Unwanted Programs Or Settings

Your game/PC can be set to maximum performance, try running the game on lower settings to consume fewer resources. This can include:

1. A lower resolution(From 4k to 1080p or 1080p to 720p)
2. A lower frame rate (try playing at 60Hz)

If there are too manyprogramsrunning in the background, using too much internet/RAM/Diskcan cause STALKER 2 multiplayer issues onWindows 11.

Closing unwanted programs will help you eliminate themultiplayer issues issue on your PC as your game would be able to get the required resources from Windows 11.

1. PressCtrl + Shift + ESCkeys to openTask Manager
2. Now check which program is using moreResources, usually indicated by a darker background
3. Right-clickon that program and selectEnd task
   

Now check if the multiplayer issuesis solved or not.

Solution 5: Try Enabling/Disabling VPN while playing S.T.A.L.K.E.R. 2 Heart of Chornobyl

Still running into locking up error on Windows 11/10?

If you’ve got a VPN on, try turning it off to see if it makes a difference. If it’s off, switch it on and check again. But heads up! Don’t jump between too many regions; you don’t want to get blocked.

Remember, the right VPN can be a game-changer.

Solution 6: Add Game Exceptions on Antivirus PC

Sometimes antivirus thinks game files are bad guys and stops them, causing the locking up.

To fix this, tell your antivirus that STALKER 2 files are cool by adding them to the “exceptions” list. This way, you can play without the antivirus messing things up!

Follow the steps below to add an exception on Antivirus (This guide is for Avast, and would be similar for other antiviruses):

1. LaunchAvaston your PC.
2. SelectMenuat the top-right corner of Avast.
3. ChooseSettingsfrom the menu.
   
4. From the left sidebar, chooseGeneral >Exceptions
   
5. ClickADD EXCEPTIONand then type the URL you want to add to it.
6. Click ADD EXCEPTION tosave the URLand check if you can access the URL
   

If you are still facing Avast Blocking Websites, continue to thenextsolution.

Solution 7: Check if Windows or Any Driver is Outdated

Sometimes compatibility issues can be a reason for continuous S.T.A.L.K.E.R. 2 Heart of Chornobyl multiplayer issues on Windows 11.

Often, it’s all about the updates. First off, head to your Windows settings and see if there’s an update waiting. While you’re on this updating spree, dive into your device manager and update your Wi-Fi drivers and update graphics drivers making sure they are on the latest versions.

These updates can make a big difference, fixing a lot of errors.

Solution 8: Contact STALKER 2 Support

Tried everything and that game error’s still bugging you?

As a last resort, head to the STALKER 2’s official website and click ‘Support’ or ‘Contact’. Send them an email, jump into live chat, or post in their official forums.

Share what’s happening and any error messages. Remember to double-check you’re on the official site. Sometimes, reaching out is the best way to get back to gaming!

Stay smart and game on!

Now that you’ve tried these fixes, your journey through the eerie landscapes of S.T.A.L.K.E.R. 2 should be much smoother and more enjoyable. Remember, keeping your system and game updated is the key to preventing lag. And don’t hesitate to reach out to support if the problem persists. Enjoy exploring the mysterious Heart of Chornobyl without any interruptions and happy gaming!