Connection issues in online multiplayer games can be extraordinarily frustrating, especially when they interrupt your gameplay. One such problem encountered by players of Call of Duty: Modern Warfare 2 is the notorious “Travis-Rilea” error. This error message appears when the game fails to connect to the servers, usually due to a network-related problem on the user’s side or sometimes even due to server outages. Fortunately, there are several tried and tested methods that can help you fix the Travis-Rilea error and get back to your matches faster.
TL;DR
The Travis-Rilea error in Modern Warfare 2 generally stems from internet connectivity or server-side issues that block the game from reaching online servers. Check your internet connection first, restart your router, and try switching DNS settings for better performance. If the problem is with Activision servers, you might have to wait or try alternative network setups like mobile tethering or VPNs. Follow the full list of troubleshooting steps below to resolve the issue properly.
What is the Travis-Rilea Error?
The Travis-Rilea error is essentially a connection failure message shown in Modern Warfare 2 when the game isn’t able to establish a connection with the online services. The name, like many error codes in games, is an internal naming convention with no intuitive meaning. It’s usually related to:
- Unstable or weak internet connections
- Firewall or NAT restrictions
- DNS resolution failures
- Server outages on Activision’s side
Now, let’s explore effective ways to troubleshoot and fix this error so you don’t have to keep seeing that dreaded message.
1. Check Activision’s and Server Status
Sometimes, the problem isn’t on your end. If Activision’s servers are down or experiencing downtime, the Travis-Rilea error may appear. You should always check the following services first:
- Activision Server Status
- Downdetector for community-based outage reports
- Infinity Ward and Call of Duty official Twitter accounts for live updates
If there are any ongoing outages, the only solution is to wait until the servers are back online.
2. Restart Your Network Devices
A simple network reset can often resolve temporary issues. Follow these steps:
- Shut down your console or PC.
- Unplug your modem and router from the power source for at least 60 seconds.
- Plug them back in and wait for all lights to stabilize.
- Turn your gaming device back on and launch Modern Warfare 2.
If this doesn’t fix the problem, move on to the next step.
3. Switch to a Wired Ethernet Connection
Wi-Fi connections are prone to interference and packet loss, which can lead to communication issues between your system and Call of Duty’s servers. A wired connection provides a faster, more stable network link.
How to set it up:
- Connect your router to your gaming console or PC using a CAT5/6 Ethernet cable.
- Disable Wi-Fi on your device to prevent conflicts.
- Restart the game and attempt to go online.
This often solves most moderate connectivity-related errors including Travis-Rilea.
4. Change Your DNS Settings
DNS servers handled by your ISP might not always be the best for gaming. Using a public DNS can improve both speed and connectivity. Here’s how to change DNS on your platform:
For PlayStation/Xbox:
- Go to Network Settings > Set Up Internet Connection > Custom
- For IP, set to Automatic; for DHCP, do not specify
- DNS Settings > Manual
- Primary DNS: 8.8.8.8
- Secondary DNS: 8.8.4.4
- Complete setup and restart the device
For PC (Windows):
- Go to Control Panel > Network and Internet > Network Connections
- Right-click your connection > Properties
- Select Internet Protocol Version 4 (TCP/IPv4) > Properties
- Use the following DNS server addresses:
- Preferred: 1.1.1.1
- Alternate: 1.0.0.1
- Click OK and restart your PC
This often leads to quicker connection validation and bypasses certain ISP-level blocks.
5. Disable Antivirus and Firewall Temporarily (PC Only)
Sometimes, your firewall or antivirus software might prevent Modern Warfare 2 from reaching its servers. Try disabling them temporarily to test:
Steps:
- Open your antivirus program and disable real-time protection.
- Go to Windows Defender Firewall > Allow an app through firewall > Add Modern Warfare 2 if not already there.
- Make sure both Private and Public boxes are ticked.
If this resolves the error, consider adding exceptions permanently rather than keeping those protections off entirely.
6. Use a VPN to Bypass Regional Network Problems
Some users have reported success by installing a VPN. A virtual private network can route your data through a different region, avoiding traffic congestion or ISP throttling issues.
Keep in mind: This should be considered as a temporary workaround. Long-term VPN usage for gaming may introduce latency. Choose a VPN provider known for speed and low ping.
7. Try Mobile Hotspot as a Last Resort
If nothing else works, you could try connecting to a mobile hotspot to confirm whether your traditional network is the issue. This can help determine if the problem lies with your ISP or home network configuration.
Although this isn’t a permanent fix due to data costs and limited bandwidth, it can be a useful diagnostic step.
8. Reinstall or Repair Modern Warfare 2
Corrupted game files can also prevent successful connections. On both PC and console, you can choose to either verify or reinstall your game files:
Steps for PC (Battle.net / Steam):
- Battle.net: Click the gear icon next to the ‘Play’ button > ‘Scan and Repair’
- Steam: Right-click the game in library > Properties > Local Files > Verify Integrity
If you’re on a console, uninstalling and reinstalling the game would be the only file integrity fix.
Conclusion
The Travis-Rilea error in Modern Warfare 2 can be caused by either client-side network configurations or issues on the server end. Fortunately, it can usually be resolved following one or more of the strategies covered here—from restarting your router to adjusting DNS settings and verifying your game files. If the issue persists, checking for server-side problems with Activision should always be your first step, as no client-side fix will work when the root issue is on the developer’s side.
By following these focused troubleshooting steps, you stand a strong chance of resolving the Travis-Rilea error and returning to the high-octane multiplayer experience you expect from Modern Warfare 2.