Modern antivirus (Bitdefender, Norton, Kaspersky, Malwarebytes) often kills long-duration connections from lesser-known launchers. You must explicitly whitelist the launcher.
Windows Defender Specific:
The "Error on download – Remote host closed connection" in Albion Online is a maddening, cryptic message, but it is almost always solvable. In 80% of cases, disabling IPv6 or whitelisting the launcher in your antivirus fixes it immediately. In the remaining 20%, a DNS change or launcher reinstall does the trick.
Don’t let a network handshake ruin your evening in the mists. Work through this guide methodically, and you will be back to ganking, gathering, and guild warfare before the maintenance window ends.
Remember: Never download launchers from third-party sites. Always use https://albiononline.com. Stay safe, and happy looting.
This article was last updated for the Albion Online "Wild Blood" and "Crystal Raiders" patch cycles. Networking behavior changes, but these troubleshooting fundamentals remain timeless.
Resolving the "Error on Download: Remote Host Closed" Error in Albion Online
Albion Online, a popular sandbox MMORPG, has been entertaining gamers worldwide with its vast open world, engaging gameplay, and rich features. However, like any other online game, it's not immune to errors and technical issues. One of the most frustrating errors players encounter is the "Error on Download: Remote Host Closed" error. In this article, we'll explore the possible causes of this error, and provide you with step-by-step solutions to resolve it.
What is the "Error on Download: Remote Host Closed" Error?
The "Error on Download: Remote Host Closed" error typically occurs when the game client is unable to download necessary files or updates from the game's servers. This error is often accompanied by a disconnection from the server, resulting in a frustrating experience for players. The error message may vary slightly, but the essence remains the same – the remote host (server) has closed the connection, preventing the download.
Possible Causes of the Error
Several factors can contribute to the "Error on Download: Remote Host Closed" error in Albion Online:
Solutions to Resolve the "Error on Download: Remote Host Closed" Error
Don't worry; we've got you covered. Try these step-by-step solutions to resolve the error:
Solution 1: Check Your Internet Connection
Solution 2: Update Your Game Client
Solution 3: Update Your Graphics and Network Drivers
Solution 4: Disable Firewall and Antivirus Temporarily
Solution 5: Verify Game File Integrity
Solution 6: Change DNS Servers
Solution 7: Contact Albion Online Support Temporarily disable real-time protection just to test if
If none of the above solutions work, it's likely that the issue is server-side or related to your specific account. Reach out to Albion Online's support team for further assistance:
Conclusion
The "Error on Download: Remote Host Closed" error in Albion Online can be frustrating, but it's usually resolvable with some troubleshooting. By following the solutions outlined in this article, you should be able to resolve the error and get back to enjoying the game. If you're still experiencing issues, don't hesitate to contact Albion Online's support team for further assistance. Happy gaming!
The "Remote Host Closed Error" in Albion Online occurs when the connection between your game launcher and the update server is interrupted. This is typically caused by local network settings, ISP interference, or outdated launcher data. 🛠️ Immediate Workarounds
If you need to get into the game quickly, these three methods are the most effective:
Use a VPN: Connecting to a VPN (or changing your region) often bypasses ISP routing issues that cause the host to close the connection.
Mobile Hotspot: Switching from your home Wi-Fi/Ethernet to a mobile hotspot for the update often resolves local network blocks. Steam File Transfer: Download the game through Steam.
Copy the files from the Steam library folder to your original standalone client folder. 🌐 Network Optimizations
Permanent fixes usually involve adjusting how your computer talks to the Albion servers:
Change DNS: Set your DNS to Google (8.8.8.8 and 8.8.4.4) or Cloudflare (1.1.1.1) to improve routing.
Disable IPv6: In your network adapter settings, uncheck "Internet Protocol Version 6 (TCP/IPv6)".
Reset Network Stack: Open Command Prompt as Administrator and run these commands: ipconfig /flushdns netsh int ip reset Restart your PC after running both. 🛡️ Software & System Checks
Client can't update, Error on Download - Albion Online Forum
SirisLi wrote: Hello! Some of the players are reporting that the issue has been resolved after today's Hotfix. Please check if it' Albion Online Forum Albion Online – How to Fix Albion Online Errors
How to Fix the "Remote Host Closed" Error in Albion Online The "Remote Host Closed" error is a common frustration for Albion Online players, especially after a major update or patch. This error typically occurs when the connection between your game client and the update server is interrupted, causing the download to fail. Understanding the Root Causes
Before diving into solutions, it’s helpful to understand why this happens. Usually, the issue stems from one of three areas:
Network Instability: Your internet connection dropped momentarily.
Server Overload: Thousands of players are hitting the Albion servers simultaneously post-update.
Software Interference: A firewall or antivirus is blocking the launcher’s attempt to write new files. Step-by-Step Troubleshooting Guide
Restart the Launcher and PCIt sounds simple, but a fresh start often clears temporary cache conflicts. Close the Albion Online launcher entirely via the Task Manager and reboot your computer. Windows Defender Specific: The "Error on download –
Run as AdministratorThe launcher needs permission to modify files in your installation folder. Right-click the Albion Online shortcut and select "Run as Administrator." This bypasses many basic "Remote Host Closed" triggers caused by Windows permission errors.
Repair Game FilesIf the download was interrupted, some files might be corrupted. Open the Albion Online Launcher. Click the "Settings" (gear icon). Select "Repair." Wait for the system to verify and redownload missing data.
Check Firewall and Antivirus SettingsSecurity software often flags game updates as suspicious activity.
Add the Albion Online launcher and the game executable to your "Exclusions" list.
Temporarily disable your firewall to see if the download completes. If it does, you know where the conflict lies.
Use a VPN (The Routing Fix)Sometimes the "Remote Host Closed" error is caused by your ISP’s poor routing to Albion’s servers. Using a VPN can provide a more stable path. Many players find that switching to a different region temporarily allows the update to finish.
Switch to the Steam Version (or vice-versa)If the standalone launcher continues to fail, many players find success by switching platforms. If you use the standalone client, try downloading the game via Steam. Your account data is cross-platform, so you won't lose progress. Advanced Fix: Flush DNS
If your network is "remembering" a bad connection to the update server, flushing your DNS can help: Open the Command Prompt (Search "cmd" in Windows). Type ipconfig /flushdns and hit Enter. Restart your router.
Most "Remote Host Closed" errors are solved by running the launcher as an administrator or repairing the game files. If these fail, the issue is likely network-related, and a VPN or DNS flush is your best bet to get back into the world of Albion.
To fix the "Remote Host Closed Connection" error in Albion Online, you usually need to address network stability or refresh the game’s connection to the update server. 🛠️ Quick Fixes
Restart the Launcher: Fully close the game and launcher. Restart as administrator.
Power Cycle: Turn off your router for 30 seconds. Plug it back in.
Use a VPN: This often bypasses routing issues or "throttling" from your ISP.
Check Disk Space: Ensure you have at least 10GB of free space for the update. 🔧 Advanced Troubleshooting 1. Repair Game Files
The launcher might be trying to download data into a corrupted folder. Open the Albion Launcher. Click the Settings (Gear Icon). Select Repair. Let it scan and verify all files. 2. Flush Your DNS
This clears out old connection data that might be pointing to a "dead" host. Open the Start Menu and type cmd. Right-click and Run as Administrator. Type ipconfig /flushdns and hit Enter. Restart your PC. 3. Whitelist the Launcher
Your Firewall or Antivirus might be killing the connection mid-download. Go to Windows Security > Firewall & Network Protection. Select Allow an app through firewall.
Ensure Albion-Online.exe and the launcher are checked for both Private and Public. 🌐 Alternative Download Methods If the native launcher continues to fail:
Switch to Steam: If you aren't already using it, the Steam client often has more stable download servers.
Direct Download: Visit the official Albion website and download the full installer rather than relying on the launcher's incremental update. For the average player
Does the error happen immediately or after a few minutes of downloading? Are you on a public/work Wi-Fi or a home connection?
I can provide specific command prompts or file paths based on your device.
Remote Host Closed Connection error during an Albion Online typically indicates a dropped connection between your client and the update server , often caused by ISP blocks or local network interference Steam Community Immediate Workarounds
: This is the most common fix to bypass regional ISP issues or routing errors. Once the update completes, you can usually disable the VPN and play normally. Switch Networks
: Try connecting via a mobile hotspot if you are currently using WiFi or a standard broadband connection. Direct Execution : Try launching the game directly from the launch_albion_online.exe
file in your install directory; while it may be unpatched, it sometimes bypasses launcher-specific blocks. Albion Online Forum Network & System Fixes
Client can't update, Error on Download - Albion Online Forum
SirisLi wrote: Hello! Some of the players are reporting that the issue has been resolved after today's Hotfix. Please check if it' Albion Online Forum RemoteHostClosed error - Bugs - Albion Online Forum
This is a common issue when downloading large game files or patches over unstable connections.
Here is a complete, robust C# feature implementation. It includes an Auto-Retry mechanism with exponential backoff, progress tracking preservation, and specific handling for the "Remote host closed" error.
If you’ve tried fixes 1-6 and still see "Remote host closed connection," the problem is likely deep network corruption or a hardware firewall (like a router’s security suite).
If the article is from the official Albion Online forum, Reddit, or a known gaming tech site, it likely covers:
✅ Best practice: If that article solved your issue, bookmark it. If not, check the date — older articles may refer to outdated launcher versions.
This code is designed to be dropped into a generic FileDownloader class.
using System;
using System.IO;
using System.Net;
using System.Threading;
using System.Threading.Tasks;
public class AlbionDownloader
// Configuration
private const int MaxRetries = 3;
private const int DelayBetweenRetriesMs = 1000;
/// <summary>
/// Downloads a file with specific handling for "Remote Host Closed" errors.
/// Supports Resume/Retry logic.
/// </summary>
/// <param name="url">The URL of the file to download.</param>
/// <param name="destinationPath">Local path to save the file.</param>
/// <param name="progress">Optional progress reporter (0-100).</param>
/// <param name="token">Cancellation token.</param>
public async Task DownloadFileWithRetryAsync(string url, string destinationPath, IProgress<int> progress = null, CancellationToken token = default)
// Ensure directory exists
Directory.CreateDirectory(Path.GetDirectoryName(destinationPath));
int retryCount = 0;
long totalBytesToReceive = 0;
long bytesReceivedSoFar = 0;
// Determine if we are resuming an existing partial download
if (File.Exists(destinationPath + ".tmp"))
bytesReceivedSoFar = new FileInfo(destinationPath + ".tmp").Length;
while (retryCount <= MaxRetries)
try
// Create the request
HttpWebRequest request = (HttpWebRequest)WebRequest.Create(url);
request.UserAgent = "AlbionOnlineLauncher/1.0"; // Mimic launcher if needed
request.Method = "GET";
// If we have partial data, ask for the rest (Resume support)
if (bytesReceivedSoFar > 0)
request.AddRange(bytesReceivedSoFar);
using (HttpWebResponse response = (HttpWebResponse)await request.GetResponseAsync())
using (Stream responseStream = response.GetResponseStream())
using (FileStream fileStream = new FileStream(destinationPath + ".tmp", FileMode.Append, FileAccess.Write, FileShare.None))
// Get total size (if resuming, ContentLength is only the remaining part, so calculate total)
long? contentLength = response.ContentLength;
if (contentLength.HasValue)
if (bytesReceivedSoFar > 0 && response.StatusCode == HttpStatusCode.PartialContent)
totalBytesToReceive = bytesReceivedSoFar + contentLength.Value;
else
totalBytesToReceive = contentLength.Value;
// If server didn't support resume, start over
fileStream.SetLength(0);
fileStream.Seek(0, SeekOrigin.Begin);
bytesReceivedSoFar = 0;
byte[] buffer = new byte[8192];
int bytesRead;
while ((bytesRead = await responseStream.ReadAsync(buffer, 0, buffer.Length, token)) > 0)
await fileStream.WriteAsync(buffer, 0, bytesRead, token);
bytesReceivedSoFar += bytesRead;
// Report Progress
if (totalBytesToReceive > 0 && progress != null)
int percentage = (int)((bytesReceivedSoFar * 100) / totalBytesToReceive);
progress.Report(percentage);
// Download completed successfully
if (File.Exists(destinationPath)) File.Delete(destinationPath);
File.Move(destinationPath + ".tmp", destinationPath);
return; // Exit function successfully
catch (Exception ex) when (IsRemoteHostClosedError(ex))
retryCount++;
if (retryCount > MaxRetries)
throw new InvalidOperationException($"Download failed after MaxRetries retries. Remote host repeatedly closed connection.", ex);
// Log event or update UI
Console.WriteLine($"Error: Remote host closed connection. Retrying (retryCount/MaxRetries)...");
// Exponential backoff delay
await Task.Delay(DelayBetweenRetriesMs * retryCount, token);
// Loop continues, logic checks for .tmp file size and resumes automatically
catch (Exception ex)
// Handle other non-recoverable errors (404, 403, Disk Full, etc.)
throw new InvalidOperationException("Download failed due to an unrecoverable error.", ex);
/// <summary>
/// Checks if the exception is the specific "Remote host closed" error.
/// </summary>
private bool IsRemoteHostClosedError(Exception ex)
// 1. Check for WebException (The server closed the connection)
if (ex is WebException webEx)
// 2. Check for IOException (The underlying stream was closed unexpectedly)
if (ex is IOException)
return true;
return false;
This error typically means:
Common causes:
For the average player, this error translates directly into lost time and increased anxiety. Albion Online is a game where territory control and economy are real-time; a player unable to update after a major patch (like the “Foundations” or “Lands Awakened” updates) may find their guild’s hideout lost or market opportunities missed. The error’s randomness—sometimes working on the third retry without any changes—makes it particularly maddening. It erodes trust in the game’s technical stability, pushing less technical players toward drastic measures like full OS reinstalls or abandoning the game altogether.
From a developer perspective (Sandbox Interactive), this error highlights the challenge of balancing security with accessibility. Aggressive connection termination protects against certain cyber threats, but it also alienates users behind corporate firewalls, school networks, or older routers. The lack of a user-friendly error message—simply stating “remote host closed” instead of “possible antivirus interference”—is a failure of UX design.
Sometimes your ISP’s DNS server returns a bad or throttled route to Albion’s patch host. Switching to Google or Cloudflare DNS fixes this.
ipconfig /flushdns in Command Prompt (Admin).