How to fix SMITE 2 Access Denied (authentication_locked) error

Your SMITE 2 files could be encountering some errors.

A group of Gods facing a Fire Giant in Smite 2.
Image via Hi Rez Studios

You can encounter a series of issues when attempting to play SMITE 2, such as the access denied error notification, which shows (authentication_locked). This prevents you from logging into the game, even if you have the founder’s pack.

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Unfortunately, this is a relatively common issue for those who had the chance to play the SMITE 2 tests before the closed alpha launch. Even though it’s a standard error, the way to get around it is not always clear, and you might struggle to figure out the best thing to do. Thankfully, we can help out with that. Here’s what you need to know about how to fix the access denied (authentication_locked) error in SMITE 2.

What is the access denied (authentication_locked) error in SMITE 2?

New Smite god Hecate appears in front of a huge Smite 2 logo.
You could experience issues attempting to log into your SMITE 2 account. Images via HiRez/Remixed by Isaac McIntyre

The problem behind the access denied (authentication_locked) error with SMITE 2 is that the servers were not correctly up. You likely received this problem because you tried logging into SMITE 2 before the developers were ready to let you into the game.

The best way to know when to start playing SMITE 2 is by checking the current server page to ensure the servers are online. If they’re not and you attempt to load the game, there’s a good chance you’ll receive an error message saying your access is denied, and the (authentication_locked) error should pop up on your screen.

If you continue to see this issue and the SMITE 2 servers are up, verifying your game files might be a good idea. You can do this through Steam by clicking on SMITE 2 in your library, going to properties, and selecting to verify the game cache. It might be good to double-check that the game is updated with the latest version on other platforms. If you’re on an older version, there’s a good chance you won’t be able to log into the game. Shut down SMITE 2 and try to update it.

The final thing you’ll want to do before contacting the HiRez support team is uninstall SMITE 2 and reinstall. There’s a chance an update file did not properly go through, which could be the problem behind your string of errors. When the game is finished reinstalling on your machine, if the problem persists, it’s time to head over to the HiRez support team if they can’t offer a better idea of the problem. There’s a good chance they can help you figure out what’s happening and the best way to fix it.

Author
Image of Zack Palm
Zack Palm
Zack Palm has been writing about video games for the past five years. He spends his free time trying to learn about a new board, reading high-fantasy series, or working on his latest DnD character.