This error code happens when the host's computer (the computer which you're trying to control) is not able to start the Parsec stream with fast hardware encoding.
In newer versions of Parsec, we've added a lower performance 'software encode' compatibility mode, which allows for people to still be able to connect to the computer, rather than getting disconnected with an error code. When you connect to a host computer that is using this mode, you will see the warning "The host is using software encoding. Expect degraded performance and quality".
Although you will be able to use Parsec, your experience may be more laggy, higher latency and lower quality. We highly recommend reading further below for possible reasons for why Parsec is having to use the slower software encoder, to try and resolve it.
The host's graphics card doesn't support hardware encoding
In case the host computer's graphics card is too old or low end, it might not support fast 'hardware encoding'. Check the compatibility list and ensure it is supported before trying anything else. If the host's graphics card does not support hardware encoding, then there's no way to resolve the issue other than get a supported graphics card.
Drivers aren't up to date or are broken
It's also possible that the drivers for your graphics card are not working correctly. To resolve this, check the guide on how to update and clean up graphics drivers.
AMD APUs: The host can't handle high resolutions
This is a limitation of some AMD APUs. The host can try to lower the resolution to 1280x800 or lower (through Windows' settings instead of Parsec's).
Something else is using the host's encoder
On the host, disable/close NVIDIA Shadowplay, Xbox DVR / Game bar, OBS, VNC or other game streaming apps and, then see if that fixed it.
- Nvidia Shadowplay is an option in GeForce Experience marked "Share". If you do not have GeForce Experience, this does not apply to you. If you do not have the Share option, please re-check that your GPU is supported and update your drivers
- Xbox DVR is an option in the Windows settings app under the "Gaming" category, in "Captures". it is marked "Background recording"
Parsec is using the wrong graphics card
If your computer has two GPUs, such as one dedicated NVIDIA card that can't host and one integrated Intel GPU that can, you may have to switch to the other GPU to host.
Desktop computers
Plug your monitor directly into the card that can host. If you want your CPU's integrated graphics to host for instance, plug your monitor into the motherboard.
Laptops
This does not apply for laptops that are getting error 15000. You should only look into this if the people connecting are currently getting error 14003.