Can't connect to Aether Data Center, Error 2002

[Votraftur]

Good morning! Thank you for posting in the Final Fantasy XIV Technical Support Forums.

The issue you are describing is most associated with interference with game data. Many actions can trigger this error, such as a slow internet connection, certain security/privacy changes on the default Internet browser, an application running in the background causing interference, use of a VPN or an odd connection (EG: schools or cafes), a possible virus detected on the device, many rapid payments at once, and numerous other actions.

We advise clearing the cache/cookies/browsing data from your default web browser, disabling any web browser extensions (EG: ad-blocker) and trying again. We also suggest resetting the connection (router/modem) you are using to connect to the Internet before trying again. Additionally, if you are using a wireless connection, if possible please try using a wired connection instead.

If the issue only occurs for one particular character, then the described issue may have something to do with your locally-saved settings. Please go to 'My Documents' > 'My Games' > 'Final Fantasy XIV - A Realm Reborn' and delete that folder. If there are any corrupted files that are associated only with that character, this will get rid of them. Right click on the folder itself after deleting the contents, if it is set as read only, please uncheck that and re-launch Final Fantasy XIV.

If this does not solve the issue, try doing a clean boot. To do a clean boot simply open the task manager and select the 'Start up' Tab. Disable everything here and restart the PC. This will make sure that no background processes are interfering with the game.

Please be sure to install the game to the C: drive as this works best with Final Fantasy XIV. Lastly, please be sure that no background processes are interfering with FFXIV (i.e. Anti-virus software, OneDrive, Discord etc.)

Lastly, check to see if the following port ranges are opened on your router. You can contact your ISP and request they open them for you:
▼TCP
54992 through 54994,
55006 through 55007,
55021 through 55040

I hope this helps! Thank you once again for visiting the Final Fantasy XIV Technical Support Forums!

[Dharnyle]

I've tried all of the above suggestions. None of them worked to fix my issue.

I can successfully connect and play the game on other Data Centers on NA and EU. I just can't connect to the Aether Data Center. When I attempt, all I get is a blank character selection screen followed shortly by a disconnect saying can not connect to the lobby servers, error 2002.

The problem isn't on my end.