This error message is very common and can occur due to simple issues such as bad configurations of the system or issues with the network etc. Try the following short workarounds before diving in the solutions:
Restart your system/console.Restart network equipment (if using any).Make sure that servers are not down by visiting the official Twitter account of FFXIV.Connect your PC/console directly to the modem through the wire and then try entering the lobby.
Solution 1: Flush the DNS Cache
A DNS cache is a temporary database maintained by your system that consists of records of all the recent internet traffic activity. When you open a recently visited website, then your system will load it quickly from the local copy of the DNS cache. It will take more time and resources to look at the entry through the DNS server. If this cache is corrupt or it has conflicting entries, then FFXIV will fail to communicate with the servers and thus it will result in the error 5006. In that case, flushing the DNS cache may solve the problem.
For Windows:
and then press enter.
For macOS 10.15
and then press the Enter button
Solution 2: Reset the Network Adapter
FFXIV error 5006 could be caused by the wrong configuration of your network adapter or its corrupted driver. In that case, resetting the network adapter may solve the problem. Keep in mind that you may have to reinstall VPN clients and virtual switches.
Solution 3: Use Another Network
ISPs apply different techniques and protocols to control web traffic and safeguard its users. During this process, they sometimes block access to important services and network features which are essential for different games to operate. The same could be the cause of the error 5006. In that case, switching to another network may solve the problem.
Solution 4: Use the Cross-World Feature
The Error 5006 could be temporarily caused by a communication glitch between your gaming client and the world you are playing in. In that case, visiting another world and then reverting to your original world may solve the problem.
Solution 5: Change the Data Center
The FFXIV error 5006 could be caused by a temporary communication error between your gaming client and the data center. In that case, changing the data center and then reverting to your data center may solve the problem.
Server Issues
If you are still having issues with FFXIV, then most probably the issue is on the server end. In that case, you should contact the support of Square Enix.
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