Decoding Error 13 on Epic Games: A Comprehensive Guide

Error LS-0013 on the Epic Games Launcher is a frustrating issue that often prevents players from launching or properly updating their games. It’s primarily caused by a lack of proper administrative privileges or permissions issues related to the game’s installation directory or the launcher itself. In essence, the Epic Games Launcher doesn’t have the necessary authority to access, modify, or execute files within the game’s folder, resulting in the error. This can stem from various sources, from Windows user account control settings to overly aggressive security software. Understanding the root cause is crucial for implementing the correct solution.

Understanding the Culprits Behind Error LS-0013

Several factors can trigger the dreaded LS-0013 error. Here’s a breakdown of the most common culprits:

• Insufficient Administrative Privileges: The Epic Games Launcher or the specific game might not be running with the necessary administrator rights. This is the most frequent cause, as the launcher needs elevated privileges to install, update, and modify game files.

• File Permission Issues: The user account may lack the required permissions to access or modify files within the game’s installation directory. This can happen after Windows updates, account changes, or if the game was installed under a different user account.

• Interference from Security Software: Antivirus programs or firewalls might mistakenly flag the Epic Games Launcher or the game as a potential threat, blocking its access to necessary resources.

• Corrupted Game Files: Though less common for this specific error code, corrupted game files can sometimes lead to permission-related problems. The launcher might be unable to verify or update the game files properly.

• Conflicts with Background Applications: Other running applications might be interfering with the Epic Games Launcher’s operations, especially those that also require system-level access.

• Outdated or Corrupted Launcher Installation: In rare instances, the Epic Games Launcher itself might be corrupted or outdated, leading to permission errors.

Effective Solutions to Conquer Error LS-0013

Now that we understand the potential causes, let’s explore practical solutions to fix the LS-0013 error and get you back into the game:

1. Run the Epic Games Launcher as Administrator:

   • Locate the Epic Games Launcher shortcut on your desktop or in the Start menu.
   • Right-click on the shortcut and select “Run as administrator.” This grants the launcher elevated privileges.
   • If this resolves the issue, configure the launcher to always run as administrator. Right-click the shortcut, select “Properties,” go to the “Compatibility” tab, and check the box next to “Run this program as an administrator.”

2. Verify Game Files:

   • Open the Epic Games Launcher.
   • Navigate to your Library.
   • Locate the game that’s causing the error.
   • Click the three dots (…) next to the game’s name.
   • Select “Verify.” The launcher will check the integrity of the game files and replace any corrupted or missing ones.

3. Take Ownership of the Game Installation Folder:

   • Locate the game’s installation folder (usually found in the Epic Games folder).
   • Right-click on the folder and select “Properties.”
   • Go to the “Security” tab.
   • Click “Edit…” to change permissions.
   • Click “Add…” and enter your username. Click “Check Names” and then “OK.”
   • Select your username in the “Group or user names” list.
   • In the “Permissions for [Your Username]” section, check the box next to “Full control” under the “Allow” column.
   • Click “Apply” and then “OK” to save the changes.

4. Temporarily Disable Antivirus Software and Firewall:

   • Temporarily disable your antivirus software and firewall.
   • Try launching the game again. If it works, add the Epic Games Launcher and the game executable to your antivirus/firewall’s exceptions list.

5. Perform a Clean Boot:

   • Press Windows key + R, type “msconfig”, and press Enter.
   • Go to the “Services” tab.
   • Check the box next to “Hide all Microsoft services” and then click “Disable all.”
   • Go to the “Startup” tab and click “Open Task Manager.”
   • Disable all startup items.
   • Close Task Manager and click “Apply” and then “OK” in the System Configuration window.
   • Restart your computer. This will start Windows with a minimal set of drivers and startup programs, helping to identify if a background application is causing the conflict.

6. Reinstall the Epic Games Launcher:

   • Completely uninstall the Epic Games Launcher from your computer.
   • Download the latest version from the Epic Games website.
   • Reinstall the launcher, ensuring you run the installer as administrator.

7. Check for Windows Updates:

   • Ensure your Windows operating system is up to date. Sometimes, compatibility issues between the Epic Games Launcher and older versions of Windows can cause errors.

8. Disable Fullscreen Optimization:

• Find the game executable (.exe file).
• Right-click the file and select “Properties.”
• Go to the “Compatibility” tab.
• Check the box next to “Disable fullscreen optimizations.”
• Click “Apply” and then “OK” to save the changes.

FAQs: Demystifying Error LS-0013

1. Does LS-0013 mean my game is corrupted?

While file corruption isn’t the primary cause of LS-0013, it can sometimes contribute to the issue. Verifying your game files should address any potential corruption problems.

2. Will uninstalling and reinstalling the game fix LS-0013?

Uninstalling and reinstalling the game might work, but it’s often more time-efficient to try other solutions first, such as running the launcher as administrator or verifying game files.

3. Is LS-0013 a hardware problem?

No, LS-0013 is typically a software-related issue, not a hardware problem.

4. Why am I getting LS-0013 even after running as administrator?

Even if you run the launcher as administrator, file permissions within the game’s installation folder might still be restricted. Try taking ownership of the folder as described above.

5. Can multiple Epic Games accounts cause LS-0013?

Multiple accounts on the same computer are unlikely to directly cause LS-0013, but conflicting file permissions or cache data could potentially contribute to the issue.

6. Is there a permanent fix for LS-0013?

The solutions outlined above should provide a permanent fix if the root cause is addressed. Regularly updating your drivers, operating system, and security software can also help prevent the error from recurring.

7. What if none of these solutions work?

If none of the above solutions work, contact Epic Games Support for further assistance. Provide them with detailed information about the error, the steps you’ve already tried, and your system specifications.

8. Does LS-0013 only affect Fortnite?

No, LS-0013 can affect any game installed through the Epic Games Launcher.

9. Can I prevent LS-0013 from happening in the future?

Yes, by consistently running the Epic Games Launcher as administrator, ensuring your user account has the necessary permissions, and keeping your system and software up to date, you can minimize the risk of encountering LS-0013.

10. Is LS-0013 related to internet connection issues?

No, LS-0013 is typically not related to internet connection issues. However, a stable internet connection is required to download and verify game files.

11. Can mods cause LS-0013?

Improperly installed or incompatible mods can sometimes lead to file permission issues, potentially triggering LS-0013. Try disabling or removing any recently installed mods.

12. Will clearing the Epic Games Launcher webcache help?

While clearing the webcache is more commonly associated with other errors, it’s a quick and easy step that might help resolve LS-0013 in some cases. The extracted article provided instructions to do this.

13. Is LS-0013 related to the Easy Anti-Cheat system?

While Easy Anti-Cheat can sometimes cause issues with game launches, it’s not directly linked to LS-0013. The solutions provided are best to try first.

14. Where can I learn more about game development and game-based learning?

You can explore resources at the Games Learning Society and GamesLearningSociety.org, which is dedicated to research and innovation in the field of game-based learning.

15. Is error LS-0013 related to account verification?

Error LS-0013 is not directly related to account verification.