Socket error message (and perhaps any launchpad related issue)

The most common causes of a socket error is Bloatware. In these cases, a semi-malicious program (or group of programs) is preventing the launch pad from connecting. I have also included additional instructions to follow as subsequent steps if removing bloatware did not resolve the issue.

1. To fix this, you will need to remove said bloat ware programs in order to connect. Some common software to look for is below.
• Browser Safeguard
• Browser Infrastructure Helper
• Search Protect
• Browser Defender
• Severeweatheralerts.exe

2. Reset your Internet options by following these instructions: First, make sure to have all browsers and the Launchpad closed. Next, go to Start > Control Panel > Internet Options > Click the Advanced Tab. On the Advanced Tab Afterward click Reset > Delete Personal Settings > and click Reset. Then go back on the Internet Options and on the advanced tab. scroll down to Security and un-check "Check Server Certificate Revocation" and *Do Not Save Encrypted Pages to Disk* then click on Ok.

3. Windows Proxy Settings: Please refer to the Knowledgebase article for assistance with these steps: http://help.soe.com/app/answers/detail/a_id/28400

4. LP4 Cache Settings: If some cached information is preventing the LP4 from working properly, they can clear the LP4 cache by going to the game's folder and finding the launchpad.libs folder. From there, delete the launchpad.cache folder and try accessing the game once again.

5. Anti-Virus / Firewall Software: It is not advisable to fully disable AV/FW software, but you will want to make sure the proper exceptions have been made for all security software.

6. Client Reinstallation: This is a last ditch effort - as I’m sure you know, reinstalling takes time, and not an initial recommendation. In some rare cases, however, reinstalling the client will fix the Socket Error.

I would recommend everyone use the following programs at all times on their systems & keep them up to date & scan at least once a week with them -

Spybot Search & Destroy - http://www.safer-networking.org/

Malwarebytes Antimalware Free Version - https://www.malwarebytes.org/

Ccleaner - https://www.piriform.com/ccleaner

Glary Utilities - http://www.glarysoft.com/

Microsoft Security Essentials - http://windows.microsoft.com/en-us/windows/security-essentials-download

Adblock/Adblock Plus for Firefox or Chrome

Web Of Trust/WOT for Firefox or Chrome - generally IT pros shouldn't need this but a lot of others seem like they could use guidance on what sites not to visit or trust.

This is by no means a comprehensive list but at least a good basic guideline to follow to help protect your PC from various malware infestations & other unpleasantries & avoid having to get your PC repaired or cleaned.

I need help, idk what to consider as bloat aoftware because ive done added an exception to firewall, reset internet settings, and reinstalled.

Nevermind i fixed it

Glad you were able to fix it. Please let us know if anything else comes up!