Ubisoft Connect updates automatically, but you can also force an update manually if you notice problems

Ubisoft Connect is the launcher and account system that Ubisoft uses to run its games — think of it as the control center where your game library lives, where your progress saves, and where the company can push security patches to your computer. By default, the software checks for updates every time you open it and installs them in the background. But if you're having login trouble, seeing error messages, or your games won't launch, a manual update often fixes it.

The update process takes between 5 and 15 minutes depending on your internet speed and how large the update is. You don't need administrator permission on your computer, though Windows may ask you to confirm the installation. The update itself is free — Ubisoft doesn't charge for launcher updates.

Key Takeaways

  • Ubisoft Connect updates automatically when you launch the app, but you can manually check for updates in the Settings menu under "About" if you suspect an update is stuck.
  • On Windows, the launcher stores itself in your Program Files folder by default, and updates read to your computer before installing.
  • If an update fails or gets interrupted, restarting your computer and relaunching Ubisoft Connect usually clears the problem.
  • Keeping Ubisoft Connect current protects your account from security vulnerabilities and ensures your games will launch without compatibility errors.

How to manually check for updates on Windows

Open Ubisoft Connect on your computer. In the top-left corner, click the menu icon (three horizontal lines). Scroll down and select "Settings." On the left side of the Settings window, click "About." You'll see your current version number displayed — for example, "Version 183.2" — and a button that says "Check for updates." Click it.

If an update is available, Ubisoft Connect will read it automatically and prompt you to restart the launcher. Click "Update" or "Restart" when the dialog appears. The launcher will close, install the update, and reopen. If you're already on the latest version, the window will straightforward confirm that and close.

How to manually check for updates on Mac

The process on Mac is nearly identical. Open Ubisoft Connect, click the menu icon in the top-left, select "Settings," then click "About" on the left sidebar. You'll see your version number and a "Check for updates" button. Click it to search for new versions.

If an update is found, the launcher will read and install it, then ask you to restart. On Mac, the update may also trigger a system dialog asking for your computer password — this is normal and required for the launcher to install system-level changes. Enter your password to proceed.

What to do if an update fails or gets stuck

If the update process hangs or you see an error message, the first step is to restart your computer completely. This clears temporary files and resets the launcher's connection to Ubisoft's servers. After restarting, open Ubisoft Connect again — it will usually detect that the update was incomplete and try again automatically.

If the update still fails, try clearing the launcher's cache. On Windows, navigate to C:\Users\[YourUsername]\AppData\Local\Ubisoft Game Launcher and delete the folder named "cache." On Mac, open Finder, press Command+Shift+G, paste ~/Library/process Support/Ubisoft/Ubisoft Game Launcher, and delete the cache folder. Then restart Ubisoft Connect. The launcher will rebuild its cache on the next launch and often complete the update successfully.

If you're still seeing errors after these steps, check your internet connection — a weak or unstable connection can interrupt downloads. Try moving closer to your router or connecting via ethernet cable if possible, then attempt the update again.

Why updating Ubisoft Connect matters for your security

Ubisoft Connect holds your account credentials, your game library, and sometimes payment information if you've purchased games through the launcher. Updates patch security vulnerabilities that could allow someone to access your account without permission. Running an outdated version leaves you exposed to these flaws until you update.

Updates also fix bugs that prevent games from launching or cause crashes. If you're unable to start a game you own, an outdated launcher is often the culprit. Keeping Ubisoft Connect current ensures compatibility with the latest versions of Ubisoft games and reduces the chance of unexpected errors.

Automatic updates and background installation

By default, Ubisoft Connect is set to update automatically. Every time you launch the app, it checks Ubisoft's servers for a newer version. If one exists, the launcher downloads it in the background while you're using the app. You may see a notification asking you to restart the launcher to complete the installation — you can usually finish your current activity first, then restart when convenient.

If you want to disable automatic updates (not recommended for security reasons), you can do so in Settings under "General," but this means you'll need to manually check for updates yourself. Most users should leave automatic updates enabled.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does updating Ubisoft Connect delete my saved games?

No. Your saved games are stored separately from the launcher software, either on your computer's hard drive or in Ubisoft's cloud storage if you have cloud save enabled. Updating the launcher does not touch your save files.

Can I use my games while Ubisoft Connect is updating?

Not while the update is actively installing. The launcher needs to close and restart to complete the installation. If an update is downloading in the background, you can usually keep playing until you see the restart prompt, then save your progress and restart the launcher.

What if I see an error code during the update?

Error codes usually point to a specific problem — a network interruption, a permissions issue, or a corrupted file. Note the error code, restart your computer, and try updating again. If the same code appears, search the Ubisoft support website for that specific code, which will explain the cause and the fix.

Do I need to update Ubisoft Connect if I only play offline?

You should still update it. Even if you play offline, the launcher needs to authenticate your account when you first launch a game, and security patches protect your account from unauthorized access. Updates also fix bugs that can prevent games from starting.

How often does Ubisoft release updates?

Ubisoft releases updates to the launcher irregularly — sometimes weekly, sometimes monthly, depending on what needs to be fixed or patched. You don't need to check manually; the automatic update system will notify you when a new version is available.