In this guide, we aim to help you troubleshoot one of the most common hiccups that Pokemon Go players face, namely the “Unable to Authenticate” error. This issue can arise due to various reasons, either from server outages or problems on the user end. We provide solutions that you can implement to rectify this error and get back to catching ‘em all!
Why Does the “Unable to Authenticate” Error Appear in Pokemon Go 2024
Frequent occurrence of an error may be due to internet connectivity issues or server instability on Niantic’s end. However, it may also be caused by some device settings or game files. In case of server outage, waiting until the issue is resolved by Niantic would be the only solution. To confirm if the problem is because of a server outage, one can refer to the Niantic Support Twitter account or websites like Down Detector.
If there’s no reported server outage, you can assume the problem is likely on your side and proceed with the following steps to troubleshoot the issue.
Steps to Fix “Unable to Authenticate” Error in Pokemon Go
- Ensure Stable Internet Connection: First, make sure your internet connection is stable and robust enough to support Pokemon Go. If you’re relying on cellular data, ensure that you’re not in areas with poor reception.
- Restart the App and Your Device: Try closing the app fully and reopening it. On Android, you can use the Force Stop option. If the error persists, reboot your device. This simple step can often resolve minor software glitches.
- Clear the App Cache: Cleaning up the cache for Pokemon Go can sometimes do the trick. For Android users, go to ‘Settings,’ ‘Apps,’ find Pokemon Go, and select ‘clear cache.’ For iOS users, since the option to clear cache is unavailable, you need to uninstall Pokemon Go, restart your device, and then reinstall the game.
- Disable VPN Service: If you’re running a VPN service, turn it off. VPNs can interfere with Pokemon Go and lead to authentication issues.
- Try Logging In on a Different Device: This can help verify whether your account is intact. If you can log in without a hitch, your account is safe. However, you might want to think about integrating additional log-in methods, such as linking to a Facebook or Google account, as a fallback measure.
- Check with Your Internet Service Provider: If none of the above works, there might be issues with your Internet Service Provider (ISP). Contact them to check if there are any connectivity issues on their end.
If the error still persists after these steps, it’s advisable to reach out to Niantic Support. The issue may be unique and need specific assistance to rectify. Remember, the goal is to get you back on your Pokemon journey as soon as possible!