SOLVED: Fallout 76 Crashing On Startup on PC

Fallout 76 is an exciting and popular video game, but like any other software, it can encounter issues such as crashing, shutdowns, black screens, and other problems that prevent it from loading or running properly on a PC. These issues can be frustrating and can hinder the gaming experience. However, don’t worry! In this article, we will provide some simple and easy solutions that anyone can try to fix these problems. Let’s dive right in!

Solution 1: Restart the PC

When you experience shutdown on Windows 11/10 or any bug in FO76, it’s recommended to start by restarting the computer before attempting any other fixes.

This is because restarting the computer can resolve any temporary errors caused by outdated cookies and cache or conflicts with other software on your system by simply restarting Windows 11/10/7.

Solution 2: Run the Program as an Administrator (Permanently) PC

When running Fallout 76 on PC, there may be times when you need to give the program administrative privileges in order to access certain features or settings and in our case to get rid of not loading.

One way of doing it is by simply right-clicking on the program and selecting “Run as administrator”, but it may not always be enough, as you may need to grant these privileges permanently in order to avoid constantly having to repeat the process.

Here’s how to run a program as an administrator permanently on Windows 11/10:

  1. Go to the folder/Application
  2. Right-click on it
  3. A menu will open
  4. Select Properties
  5. A new window will open
  6. Navigate to the “Compatibility Tab“
  7. Under the Settings heading
  8. Find “Run this Program as an administrator“
    Run this program as an adminstrator on Windows 11
  9. Check the box for this option
  10. Click “Apply“

Now your program successfully Runs as an Administrator on Windows 11/10 (Permanently) and you can easily open the program without repeating the steps.

Solution 3: Update Fallout 76

For critical errors like shutdown, 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Playing with outdated versions can also lead to technical glitches, compatibility issues, or even missing out on new content.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 not opening.

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 many programs running in the background, using too much internet/RAM/Disk can cause FO76 black screen on startup on Windows 11.

Closing unwanted programs will help you eliminate the black screen issue on your PC as your game would be able to get the required resources from Windows 11/10.

  1. Press Ctrl + Shift + ESC keys to open Task Manager
  2. Now check which program is using more Resources, usually indicated by a darker background
  3. Right-click on that program and select End task
    End Task on Windows 11

Now check if the not opening is solved or not.

Solution 5: Try Enabling/Disabling VPN while playing Fallout 76

Still running into crashing error on Windows 11?

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 shutdown.

To fix this, tell your antivirus that Fallout 76 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. Launch Avast on your PC.
  2. Select Menu at the top-right corner of Avast.
  3. Choose Settings from the menu.
    Settings on Avast antivirus
  4. From the left sidebar, choose General > Exceptions
    Add Exception Button on Avast Antivirus
  5. Click ADD EXCEPTION and then type the URL you want to add to it.
  6. Click ADD EXCEPTION to save the URL and check if you can access the URL
    Add exception on Avast Antivirus

If you are still facing Avast Blocking Websites, continue to the next solution.

Solution 7: Check if Windows or Any Driver is Outdated

Sometimes compatibility issues can be a reason for continuous FO76 not loading on Windows.

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 Fallout 76 Support

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

As a last resort, head to the FO76’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!

Final thoughts

In conclusion, encountering crashes, black screens, or startup issues while playing Fallout 76 on PC can be frustrating, but there are several solutions you can try. Restarting the console, running the game as an administrator, updating the game, closing unnecessary programs, enabling or disabling VPN, adding game exceptions on antivirus, checking for outdated drivers, and reaching out to the game’s support team are all potential remedies to these problems. By following these steps, you can increase your chances of resolving the issues and enjoy a smoother gaming experience in Fallout 76. Now go ahead, apply these solutions, and get back to exploring the wasteland in no time!

Sophia
Sophia

Hi! I'm Sophia from France. 🇫🇷 I got my first PlayStation as a gift and saved up big time for my fav, the PS2! 🎮 Now, I write super cool guides and articles about it on thecpuguide.com. Let's game on! 🌟

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