Playing EA Sports FC 25 online can be frustrating due to inconsistent gameplay caused by connection issues. While EA’s servers are a significant factor, there are steps you can take to optimize your connection and give yourself the best possible experience. Below is a detailed guide based on extensive research and testing, designed to help you improve your Weekend League (WL) gameplay.

This guide is heavely inspired by the Twitter user beastmodeprods.

Step 1: Use a Wired Connection (Ethernet Cable)

This is the most basic yet essential step. Wi-Fi introduces unnecessary latency and packet loss, which can negatively impact gameplay. A direct Ethernet connection ensures a more stable and lower-latency connection to EA’s servers.

Step 2: Log In to Your Modem/Router

You’ll need access to your router settings to implement most of the advanced steps. If you’ve never done this before, follow these instructions:

  • Connect your PC or laptop to your modem/router using an Ethernet cable.
  • Open a web browser and enter your modem’s IP address (commonly 192.168.1.1 or 192.168.0.1).
  • Use the default username and password (often found on a sticker on your router) to log in.

If you can’t access your router settings, check your ISP’s website for specific instructions.

Step 3: Assign a Static IP to Your Console/PC

This ensures that your network settings remain consistent.

  • Locate your console’s MAC address in network settings.
  • Assign a static IP address to that MAC address within your router’s DHCP settings.
  • This prevents your connection from constantly changing and avoids conflicts with other devices.
https://twitter.com/beastmodeprods/status/1755674123584287211

Step 4: Open/Forward Ports for EA FC 25

Port forwarding helps ensure a direct, stable connection to EA’s servers. You need to open the following ports for your platform:

PlayStation 5 & PlayStation 4

  • TCP: 3478-3480
  • UDP: 3074, 3478-3479

Xbox Series X & Xbox One

  • TCP: 3074
  • UDP: 88, 500, 3074, 3544, 4500

PC (Steam & Origin)

  • TCP: 27015, 27036
  • UDP: 27015, 27031-27036

Nintendo Switch

  • TCP: 6667, 12400, 28910, 29900, 29901, 29920
  • UDP: 1024-65535

To apply these settings, navigate to your router’s port forwarding section and manually input the above values.

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Step 5: Disable uPnP (Universal Plug and Play)

While uPnP is designed to make network configuration easier, it can also cause inconsistencies in NAT (Network Address Translation) settings. Disabling it often improves stability and can help maintain an Open NAT Type (Type 1).

Step 6: Try to Get Host in Matches

While FC 25 primarily uses dedicated servers, some modes still rely on peer-to-peer hosting. The best way to increase your chances of being the host:

  • When searching for a game, wait for the “searching” prompt rather than an immediate “initializing” screen. The latter usually means you’re joining another player’s session.
  • Playing at off-peak hours may increase your chances of hosting a match.

You can also try and follow this guide from NealGuides.

Step 7: Clear Cache & Storage on Your Console

This can improve responsiveness in both menus and gameplay.

For PlayStation 5:

  1. Turn off the console.
  2. Hold the power button until you hear a second beep (Safe Mode).
  3. Connect a controller via USB.
  4. Select Clear Cache and Rebuild Database.

For Xbox Series X/S:

  1. Turn off the console.
  2. Unplug the power cable for 30 seconds.
  3. Plug it back in and restart.

Step 8: Understanding EA’s Lag Compensation System

EA uses a controversial lag compensation system designed to equalize gameplay. This often results in players with better connections experiencing artificial input delay to “balance” the match.

To minimize the effects of lag compensation:

  • Throttle your connection: Reduce your internet speed to avoid being penalized by EA’s matchmaking.
  • Download or stream while playing: This method can sometimes reduce input delay by tricking EA’s system into thinking your connection is slower.

Step 9: Prioritize Your Console/PC on Your Network (QoS)

Quality of Service (QoS) allows you to prioritize gaming traffic over other devices on your network.

  • Log in to your router.
  • Navigate to QoS settings.
  • Assign your console or PC as the highest priority device.

Step 10: Manage Network Congestion (Bufferbloat Control)

Network congestion can result in delayed inputs and inconsistent gameplay. Many routers have a Congestion Control or Bufferbloat Mitigation feature that ensures smoother traffic flow.

Step 11: Debunking the Myth of Ping and Gameplay Quality

Many players assume that lower ping = better gameplay, but this isn’t always the case. Due to EA’s matchmaking system and lag compensation, a stable and optimized connection is often more important than just having low ping.

Step 12: (Advanced) Experimenting with MTU Settings

The Maximum Transmission Unit (MTU) determines the largest packet size your network can send.

  • Reducing MTU artificially induces packet loss, which can sometimes work in your favor by forcing a more stable connection.
  • This requires advanced networking knowledge and should be tested cautiously.
https://twitter.com/beastmodeprods/status/1755674163660914789

Final Thoughts

While these steps can’t completely fix EA’s server-side issues, they will help you create the best possible conditions for smooth gameplay. Whether you’re grinding Weekend League or just looking for more responsive matches, following this guide will give you the best chance of enjoying FC 25 with minimal frustration.

Give these steps a try, and let us know if they help improve your gameplay experience!