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Plugin says I'm offline, but everything else is online

Fix the "You are currently offline" error in Arcade, Co-Producer, and other Output plugins. Start with the quickest fixes and work down.

If an Output plugin is showing an offline error but your internet is working fine, something is blocking the plugin's connection — not your internet itself. Work through the steps below in order, testing after each one.

This applies to: Arcade, Co-Producer and subscription versions of PORTAL, THERMAL, MOVEMENT.

Fix the connection

1. Check your firewall, VPN, or antivirus

99% of the time, this is the issue especially with Windows computers. Firewalls, VPNs, Windows Defender antivirus software, and connection-blocking apps like Little Snitch or Lulu can all prevent a plugin from reaching the internet even when your browser works fine.

  • Temporarily disable your VPN or antivirus and relaunch the plugin. If it connects, add both the plugin and your DAW to the software's exception list.

  • On Windows, make sure both the plugin and your DAW are allowed through Windows Firewall. See Add or remove an app from the list of allowed apps for instructions.

2. Check your internet speed

Output plugins need a stable connection to function. If your speed is below 20 Mbps or dropping intermittently, that can trigger the offline error. Run a speed test and confirm you're getting at least 20 Mbps before continuing.

3. Try a different network

Output plugins work best on a private network. Public Wi-Fi (coffee shops, schools, hotels) often has restrictions that block plugin connections. Connect to a different network or your phone's hotspot and relaunch the plugin. If it connects on the hotspot, the issue is with your main network's settings — contact your internet provider for help.

4. Reboot your modem and router

Unplug both your modem and router from power. Wait 30–60 seconds, then plug them back in and let them fully restart before relaunching the plugin.

If the network steps didn't help

5. Check for maintenance or optimization software

Apps like CleanMyMac X or CCleaner can quietly delete files the plugin needs, or block its network access.

If you're running any system cleaner or optimizer, exclude both the plugin and your DAW from it, then reinstall Arcade.

6. Perform a soft reset (Arcade only)

This resets Arcade's session without removing your downloaded content.

  • macOS: Navigate to /Library/Application Support/Output/Arcade

  • Windows: Navigate to C:/ProgramData/Output/Arcade

Note: ProgramData is a hidden folder on Windows by default. To make it visible, see View hidden files and folders in Windows.

Delete these files and folder:

  • api-user.xml

  • config.xml

  • The Assets folder

Restart your computer, then relaunch Arcade.

7. Check for unauthorized software

If Arcade works in standalone mode but not inside your DAW, an unauthorized or pirated DAW may be blocking its internet access by modifying system files or firewall rules. Output can't troubleshoot this — switch to a legitimate DAW to resolve it.

8. Reinstall (last resort)

If nothing above worked, a clean reinstall is the next step. Note that reinstalling Arcade may remove downloaded content and custom kits — back up anything you want to keep first.

If the issue is still there after a clean reinstall, reach out to [email protected] or start a chat in the bottom right corner. with your OS, DAW, and a description of what you've already tried.

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