Fix FiveM Stuck on "Connecting" / Handshake & o:err
stuck on connectingfailed handshakeo:errconnection timed outA FiveM client that hangs on "connecting" or fails the handshake usually points to the server's ports, a heavy resource at startup, or a client cache problem. Here's how to narrow it down.
Server side: ports & the handshake
FiveM uses TCP and UDP on the same port (default 30120). If only TCP is open, players reach the server list but the handshake (UDP) never completes — a classic "stuck on connecting":
30120/tcp + 30120/udp game (default)
# both protocols must be openServer side: a resource hanging the join
A heavy or broken resource can stall the connection deferral so players never finish loading. Watch the server console as a player joins — the last resource printed before the hang is your suspect. See fixing "couldn't load resource".
Client side: clear the cache
A corrupted client cache causes handshake and "o:err" failures. Have the player delete the FiveM cache:
%localappdata%\FiveM\FiveM.app\data\cache
# delete the cache folder contents, then relaunchOther quick checks
- Player should verify GTA V files in Steam/Rockstar/Epic.
- Disable mods/trainers in singleplayer — they break the handshake.
- Check the server's sv_maxclients isn't full and the server is updated to a current artifact.
- Make sure the server's connection deferral logic (loading screens/queue) isn't erroring.
Open 30120 on BOTH tcp and udp, watch the console for the resource that hangs the join, and clear the client cache for "o:err".
FiveM is a Cfx.re / Rockstar Games project. Grand Theft Auto V is a trademark of Rockstar Games / Take-Two Interactive. ESAGAMES is an independent hosting provider, not affiliated with or endorsed by Rockstar Games, Take-Two or Cfx.re. You must own a legitimate copy of the game.
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Frequently asked questions
Why is FiveM stuck on "connecting"?
Most often UDP isn't open on the server (only TCP), so the handshake can't finish, or a resource is hanging the join. Open 30120 on both TCP and UDP and watch the server console as someone connects.
What does "o:err" mean in FiveM?
It's a generic connection/handshake error on the client, frequently a corrupted FiveM cache. Deleting the cache folder and relaunching clears it in most cases.
How do I clear the FiveM cache?
Delete the contents of %localappdata%\FiveM\FiveM.app\data\cache, then restart FiveM. It re-downloads what it needs on the next connect.
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