How to Fix Highguard Unable to Match / Enter Queue

Highguard has become the latest team PvP shooter on everyone’s lips, and many players around the world joined this free game right away. However, not every player’s experience has been smooth—some have reported that they cannot start matchmaking or cannot enter the queue to begin a match. This article provides a complete set of solutions to help you resolve Highguard matchmaking issues.

Highguard Matchmaking Issues

Based on the information we have collected so far, Highguard matchmaking failures mainly present in the following ways:

1. Unable to start matchmaking
2. After entering the queue, it is instantly canceled
3. Matching time is very long, and finally matching fails

The causes of these matchmaking problems may come from network node connections, network restrictions, or faults in your local network connection. Below we will troubleshoot and resolve them one by one.

Ways to Get Highguard to Match Smoothly

Avoid Network Restrictions

Firewalls or antivirus software can restrict Highguard’s network access. This depends on your system and software settings. You can refer to the following methods to add Highguard to the whitelist. Please note: do not completely turn off your firewall or antivirus, as this may compromise your device security.

• How to add Highguard to the Windows Firewall whitelist:
  • Press Start and type "Windows Security", then open it.
  • Click "Firewall & network protection".
  • Click "Allow an app through firewall" (link near the bottom).
  • Click "Change settings" (you may be asked for permission).
  • If "Highguard" is listed, check the boxes for Private and Public networks (at least Private). Click OK.
  • If it is not listed, click "Allow another app…" → Browse → find and select Highguard.exe → Add → then check the Private/Public boxes → OK.
  • Restart the game.
• How to find Highguard.exe:
  • If you installed via Steam: open Steam → Library → right‑click Highguard → Manage (or Properties) → Local Files → Browse Local Files.
  • Or look in the game's install folder (e.g., under C:\Program Files or C:\Program Files (x86)).

Use GearUP to Repair Server Connections

Game data transmitted between your device and the Highguard servers passes through many data nodes. This increases flexibility of data transmission, but these nodes can fail or be subject to other interference that prevents data from being transmitted normally. This is the key cause on public networks that can stop you from matching.

When faults occur, it is difficult to manually change nodes; instead, you need to rely on GearUP’s intelligent algorithm. It can test and select the most suitable nodes in real time and perform automatic switching, reducing manual steps and improving security and efficiency. It can not only fix matchmaking errors but also prevent Highguard from showing high latency.

GearUP offers optimization solutions for all platforms. PC players can refer to the following steps:

1. Launch GearUP and search for Highguard.
   
2. Select a server; Auto means GearUP will match the currently best server for you.
   
3. Start the boost, then launch Highguard to get a low-latency experience, and do not close GearUP during this time.
   

PS5 or Xbox players can choose HYPEREV. This gaming router is plug‑and‑play and can be controlled via a companion app to enable acceleration, without requiring you to power on a PC. It is ideal for players who do not want to start a PC or who do not have one.

Optimize Your Local Network

Another point is to ensure your local network connection is stable, otherwise it may affect your game data transmission and cause sudden disconnections:

1. Improve connection stability—use a wired connection if possible. If using Wi‑Fi, avoid placing many obstacles between the device and the router.
2. Close unnecessary programs or devices, leaving only GearUP or other necessary programs.
3. Try not to use unverified plugins or tools, which may affect Highguard’s normal operation.
4. Do not use VPNs. VPNs are not primarily intended for gaming and may instead increase the risk of bans or cause higher latency.

FAQ about Highguard Matchmaking Failures

Q1: Are connection failures only occurring in Russia?

Based on the information we obtained, they are currently mainly appearing in Russia, but a small number of players in other regions have also encountered them, so this is not targeted.

Q2: Why can’t a VPN solve matchmaking problems?

A VPN’s main functions are data encryption and changing the virtual address. The nodes chosen by VPNs do not take Highguard server locations into account, so they may cause more connection issues.

Q3: Is it safe to use GearUP to accelerate Highguard?

Yes. GearUP is very safe and can be used with confidence. GearUP only adjusts connection nodes and does not modify game data or affect game balance; it fully complies with game regulations.