LS-0013 means Epic Games Launcher could not start Fortnite. It is a general launch failure, not proof that one particular file or service is broken. Start with the least-destructive fix: open Library, click Fortnite’s three-dot menu, choose Manage, then Verify. If the error remains, continue through the steps below in order.
This guide is for Fortnite launched through Epic Games Launcher on Windows. The executable paths, cache folders and commands do not apply to PlayStation, Xbox, Switch, Android or iOS.
What LS-0013 means
Epic uses LS-0013 when its Launcher cannot start a game. Fortnite may fail to open, close immediately, or appear as Running while no game window appears. Common possibilities include damaged files, a broken Launcher cache, Easy Anti-Cheat, permissions, security software, background programs, unsupported builds or network restrictions. Epic does not identify one universal cause in its LS-0013 guidance.
Fixes to try in order
1. Verify Fortnite’s files
- Open Epic Games Launcher and select Library.
- Click the three dots beside Fortnite.
- Select Manage, then Verify.
- Wait for validation to finish and launch Fortnite again.
Verification replaces files that are missing or different from the expected installation and does not delete saved progress. It can take time; if it completes without solving LS-0013, move on rather than repeating it. See Epic’s verification instructions.
Free tools Windows power users keep installed
One-click scans. No signup required.
#1 Best Overall
- Multi-Platform PC Gaming Controller: Working with Switch, PC, Android, and iOS devices via Bluetooth, wired, and wireless dongle connections.
- Hall Effect Joysticks: Delivering enhanced recentering performance for smoother control and superior anti-drift capability. Plus, with anti-friction rings.
- 2-Way Trigger Lock: With trigger stops, gamers can toggle between short and long pull positions. Additionally, gamers can activate hair trigger mode by pressing M+LT/RT (triggers must be in the long pull position).
- 1000Hz Polling Rate: This ensures that your inputs are registered almost instantaneously, minimizing lag and maximizing your performance during competitive play.
- Mechanical Circular D-pad: Designed for quick reactions and accuracy in every direction, this D-pad elevates your gaming experience with superior responsiveness.
2. Exit Epic Games Launcher and clear its cache
- Close Fortnite. In the Windows system tray, right-click the Epic Games icon and select Exit.
- Press Windows + R, enter
%localappdata%, and press Enter. - Open
EpicGamesLauncherSaved. - Delete any of these folders that exist:
webcache,webcache_4147andwebcache_4430. - Reopen the Launcher and try Fortnite.
Epic notes that only one or two cache folders may be present. The official cache procedure is documented here.
3. Repair Easy Anti-Cheat
Prioritize this when Fortnite shows as running but no window appears, closes immediately, or displays an anti-cheat message. In Library, open Fortnite’s three-dot menu, choose Manage, then Open Install Location. Browse to FortniteGameBinariesWin64EasyAntiCheat.
- Right-click the Easy Anti-Cheat executable and create a shortcut if needed.
- Open the shortcut’s Properties.
- In Target, add a space followed by
repairto the end of the existing target. - Apply the change, run the shortcut and approve the repair.
- Launch Fortnite.
Use the copy installed with Fortnite; do not download DLLs or “anti-cheat fixes” from unofficial sites. Epic’s procedure is described in its Easy Anti-Cheat article.
4. Check antivirus and firewall blocking
Review your security product’s quarantine and event history if LS-0013 began after an antivirus update. In Windows Security, go to Virus & threat protection → Manage settings → Add or remove exclusions → Add an exclusion, then select the Fortnite folder. Prefer a narrowly targeted exception over disabling protection. Remove the exception or restore protection if it does not help.
Rank #2
- Supported Multi-Platform:Switch/Switch 2 (NO support wake-up function)/iOS/Android/Windows PC (Notice:Not compatible with Xbox, PlayStation or GeForce Now, For game platforms not mentioned, please consult customer service before buying）
- Connection modes:Wired/Bluetooth/Wireless Dongle(Connect to PC via Bluetooth : Select iOS (phone) mode, but it's not recommended; Dongle is more stable)
- 【Innovative Intelligent Interactive Screen】Manba One V2 wireless game controllers create a new era of controller screens; Equipped with a 2-inch display, no App & software needed, you can set the pc controller directly through the screen visualization, More convenient operation
- 【Micro Switch Button】Manba One wireless controller has Micro Switch Button and ALPS Bumper; The 6-axis gyroscope function makes switch games more immersive
- 【Customize Your Own Controller】The intelligent interactive screen allows you to easily set vibrations, buttons, joysticks,lights, etc., without the need for complex key combinations; 4 configurations can be saved to unlock your own gameplay for different games; The 4 back keys support macro definition settings, and you can activate the set character's ultimate move with one click
The default installation is often C:Program FilesEpic GamesFortniteFortniteGameBinariesWin64, but your drive or folder may differ. Epic’s related guidance is available for Fortnite not opening and Windows firewall exceptions. Third-party antivirus menus use different labels.
5. Test administrator settings without leaving them forced on
These are separate tests. First close the Launcher, right-click its shortcut and choose Run as administrator, then try Fortnite.
If that fails, remove forced compatibility elevation from the Launcher and Fortnite executables. In the Fortnite installation’s FortniteGameBinariesWin64 folder, check:
FortniteClient-Win64-Shipping.exeFortniteClient-Win64-Shipping_BE.exeFortniteClient-Win64-Shipping_EAC.exeFortniteLauncher.exe
For each file, open Properties → Compatibility, clear Run this program as an administrator, then select Apply and OK. The Launcher executable is commonly under C:Program FilesEpic GamesLauncherPortalBinariesWin32. Custom installations use different paths. Do not change registry permissions, ownership or UAC as a routine fix.
Recommended Free Tools
Rank #3
- Compatible with Windows and Android.
- 1000Hz Polling Rate (for 2.4G and wired connection)
- Hall Effect joysticks and Hall triggers. Wear-resistant metal joystick rings.
- Extra R4/L4 bumpers. Custom button mapping without using software. Turbo function.
- Refined bumpers and D-pad. Light but tactile.
6. Close possible background conflicts
Exit overlays, recording tools, hardware-monitoring or RGB utilities, VPNs, macro software, other launchers and optional security tools. Restart Windows and launch Fortnite before reopening them. These categories can interfere with startup, but no particular program is a confirmed cause for every LS-0013 case.
7. Update Windows and graphics drivers
Install pending Windows updates and current drivers from your GPU manufacturer or Windows Update. This is especially worthwhile when the error began after a Fortnite or Windows update, but an update is not guaranteed to fix LS-0013. Epic’s broader Fortnite troubleshooting guide covers driver and system checks.
8. Reset Winsock and DNS when the symptom looks network-related
Use this when the Launcher cannot authenticate or connect, rather than as a universal file repair. Open Command Prompt as administrator and run:
netsh winsock resetRestart Windows. Open an elevated Command Prompt again and run:
Rank #4
- Tri-mode Connectivity: Wired for Xbox, 2.4G & Wired for PC, and Bluetooth for Android. The G7 Pro supports seamless connectivity across Xbox, PC, and Android. Effortlessly switch between modes using the convenient physical mode switch.
- TMR Sticks: The G7 Pro features GameSir's Mag-Res TMR sticks, combining Hall Effect durability with traditional potentiometer performance. This advanced technology delivers stable polling rates for smooth, drift-free gaming with low power consumption.
- Hall Effect Analog Triggers: The GameSir precision-tuned Hall Effect analog triggers provide unmatched smoothness and linear input for precise control. Featuring clicky Micro Switch trigger stops, gamers can easily switch based on their preferences.
- 1000Hz Polling Rate on PC: Experience ultra-responsive gaming with a 1000Hz polling rate on PC, available through both wired and 2.4G wireless connections. This ensures instantaneous input registration, reducing lag and optimizing your performance for the most competitive gameplay.
- GameSir Nexus App: The G7 Pro is compatible with the upgraded GameSir Nexus app, which brings a significant upgrade over the original. It introduces powerful new features such as gyro settings, stick curve adjustments, and button-to-mouse mapping, giving you deeper customization and more control than ever before.
ipconfig /release
ipconfig /renew
ipconfig /flushdnsReopen Epic Games Launcher. These are Epic’s published Windows DNS reset commands.
9. Check filtering and parental controls
Router parental controls, DNS filtering, school or workplace networks, VPNs and security gateways can block Epic services. Check their logs, test another network if possible, and remove only the restriction that is actually blocking Fortnite. Do not change DNS providers for every LS-0013 incident.
10. Reset local Fortnite data, then verify
This is different from deleting the installed game. Close Fortnite and the Launcher, press Windows + R, enter %localappdata%, and delete the FortniteGame folder. Restart Windows, run Epic Games Launcher as administrator, then use Library → Fortnite → three dots → Manage → Verify. Back up custom configuration files first if you need them. Do not delete the main installation folder at this stage. Epic documents this reset for persistent Fortnite ESP errors.
11. Reinstall Epic Games Launcher
Launcher reinstall repairs the storefront application; it is not the same as reinstalling Fortnite. Confirm that you know your Epic account credentials, exit the Launcher completely, and use Epic’s current installer. Avoid deleting the existing Fortnite installation unless the official process requires it.
What’s actually slowing this PC down?
Pick the symptom - the matching free tool is one click away.
Best Value
- MODERNIZED DESIGN — Experience the modernized design of the XBOX Wireless Controller with sculpted surfaces and updated geometry that enhances comfort and control during long gaming sessions.
- PRECISION PERFORMANCE — Stay on target with a hybrid D-pad and textured grips on triggers, bumpers, and back case for improved accuracy and handling.
- SHARE BUTTON: Seamlessly capture and share content such as screenshots, recordings, and more with the new Share button.
- VERSATILE CONNECTIVITY — Connect via USB-C for plug-and-play on console and PC, or quickly pair and switch between supported devices with XBOX Wireless and Bluetooth support.
- BUILT-IN AUDIO SUPPORT — Plug in compatible headsets using the 3.5mm audio jack for direct voice chat and immersive in-game sound.
12. Reinstall Fortnite only as a last resort
Close the Launcher, delete the affected Fortnite installation directory, reopen the Launcher and install Fortnite again. Epic notes that trying another drive can help persistent installation problems. Reinstalling cannot fix a blocked account, incompatible background program, Windows permission issue or network restriction, so reserve it for after the preceding checks. Use Epic’s official LS-0013 procedure.
13. Confirm you are using a supported build
Update Fortnite through Epic Games Launcher. Alpha, beta, press or other unsupported builds may no longer launch; this is mainly relevant to nonstandard installations, not the normal public build. After a major update, check Epic’s official Fortnite support and service information before making destructive changes.
Independent reader supportYour contribution helps us test, update, and keep practical guides available for everyone.Targeted branches for common symptoms
| Symptom | Prioritize |
|---|---|
| Fortnite shows “Running” but no window appears | Verify files, repair Easy Anti-Cheat, add a targeted Windows Security exception, close overlays, then recheck compatibility settings. |
| Error began after an antivirus update | Inspect quarantine/history, restore only identified Fortnite or Epic files, and add a narrow exception. |
| Only one Windows account is affected | Reset %localappdata%FortniteGame before reinstalling the entire game. |
| Several PCs or networks fail | Suspect an account, service or network issue; check Epic support and service information instead of repeating reinstalls. |
| A different error code appears | Troubleshoot that more specific code, particularly if it names Easy Anti-Cheat or a network service. |
When none of the fixes work
Record your Windows version, GPU, Fortnite drive, exact message, whether Fortnite reaches “Running,” and the steps you completed. If the problem follows your Epic account across computers or networks, contact Epic Player Support and check official service information. Avoid registry cleaners, “one-click repair” tools, cracked launchers and unofficial Easy Anti-Cheat packages.
Quick Recap
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.
The Tool Desk
Outbyte Driver Updater FREEFix the driver behind crashes, sound loss and screen glitchesFind Drivers →Outbyte PC Repair FREERepair Windows errors before they cause bigger problemsFix Now →
