Modern Warfare 3 "Detrick-Lester" error: Possible fixes, reasons, and more

An Operator hiding behind a wall in Modern Warfare 3
This guide provides possible fixes for the Modern Warfare 3 "Detrick-Lester" error (Image via Activision)

The Modern Warfare 3 "Detrick-Lester" error is a network error that prevents players from joining a lobby. It is usually accompanied by a message that states that the connection has failed. When it occurs, users get locked out of their game and are unable to make it to the Call of Duty HQ. This can happen either when Call of Duty servers are offline or when there is an issue with your config.

Fortunately, if it's the latter, you can fix it. That said, in this guide, we'll take a closer look at some of the most popular solutions to possibly resolve the Modern Warfare 3 "Detrick-Lester" error.


How to possibly fix the Modern Warfare 3 "Detrick-Lester" error

Before getting started with the Modern Warfare 3 "Detrick-Lester" error, ensure that the Call of Duty servers are up and running. Thereafter, try any of the fixes mentioned below:

Restart your router

The first thing to do is restart your router. A proper restart will clear your router's cache and potentially fix various internet-related issues, such as latency variation and packet loss.

To restart your router properly, make sure to remove its power cable. Then, wait at least 10 seconds before plugging it back in. Try launching the game. If the error persists, move on to the next solution.


Update your game

Update Modern Warfare 3 through the Steam client (Image via Valve)
Update Modern Warfare 3 through the Steam client (Image via Valve)

Irrespective of the platform you are on, you will not be able to connect to the servers if automatic updates are turned off. Hence, it is advised to update your game to the latest version.

Sometimes, updates may not come through the client directly, which may show that none are pending. In that case, simply relaunch the game and once you are faced with the error, select 'Retry.' That should make the game automatically connect to the latest updates from the servers, potentially fixing the Modern Warfare 3 "Detrick-Lester" error.


Use different DNS servers

If you are still facing the Modern Warfare 3 "Detrick-Lester" error, it is advised to try out different DNS servers. Google's 8.8.8.8 and Cloudflare's 1.1.1.1 are two of the best choices. After making changes to your DNS settings, restart your PC/Console and the issue should potentially be resolved.


Use a different ISP

This is more of a diagnostic step rather than a fix. Use your mobile hotspot to connect to the internet and try launching the game. If the error doesn't appear, the issue is likely with your primary ISP. In that case, contact your ISP and ask them to help you resolve the problem.


That covers all the known fixes for the Modern Warfare 3 "Detrick-Lester" error. If it doesn't disappear despite implementing the above solutions, contact Activision's support team for further assistance.

Disclaimer: The fixes provided above serve as possible workarounds and are not guaranteed to work.


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