Server Connection Troubleshooting

Can't connect to your friend's server? This guide will help you fix the most common multiplayer connection issues in Hytale.

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"Failed to Connect to Server"

This is the most common multiplayer error in Hytale Early Access. Here are the main causes and solutions:

Quick Diagnosis Checklist

  • ✅ Both players have Hytale updated to the same version
  • ✅ Server host's firewall allows Hytale/VPN software
  • ✅ Using the correct IP address and port (default: 5520)
  • ✅ Server is actually running and hosting
  • ✅ Not exceeding max player limit

Solution 1: Virtual LAN (Recommended)

Best for: Playing with friends without port forwarding hassle.

Method A: Radmin VPN (Free & Easy)

  1. Download Radmin VPN: Both host and players download from radmin-vpn.com
  2. Create Network: Host creates a new network and sets a password
  3. Join Network: Friends join using network name and password
  4. Get Virtual IP: Host checks their Radmin VPN IP (e.g., 26.xxx.xxx.xxx)
  5. Start Server: Host starts their Hytale server (default port 5520)
  6. Connect: Friends use "Direct Connect" in Hytale with HostRadminIP:5520

Method B: Hamachi

  1. Download LogMeIn Hamachi (free for up to 5 players)
  2. Host creates a network, friends join
  3. Use host's Hamachi IPv4 address (shown in Hamachi client)
  4. Connect in Hytale: HamachiIP:5520

⚠️ Common Hamachi Issue: If you see yellow or red status lights, check your firewall or try restarting Hamachi.

Method C: Tailscale

Modern, secure VPN alternative. Download from tailscale.com and follow similar steps.

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Solution 2: Firewall Configuration

Windows Firewall often blocks Hytale or VPN software. Here's how to fix it:

Adding Hytale to Windows Firewall

  1. Press Windows Key + R
  2. Type firewall.cpl and press Enter
  3. Click "Allow an app or feature through Windows Defender Firewall"
  4. Click "Change settings" then "Allow another app..."
  5. Browse to Hytale installation folder (usually C:\Program Files\Hytale\)
  6. Select Hytale.exe and add it
  7. IMPORTANT: Check both "Private" and "Public" boxes
  8. Repeat for Radmin VPN/Hamachi if using virtual LAN

⚡ Quick Test: Temporarily disable Windows Firewall to see if it's the issue. If server works with firewall off, add exceptions above, then turn firewall back on.

Solution 3: Port Forwarding (Advanced)

Use this if: Virtual LAN doesn't work or you want public server accessibility.

Port Forwarding Steps

Port Number 5520 (UDP)
Protocol UDP (some routers may need both TCP/UDP)
Forward To Your PC's local IP (e.g., 192.168.1.xxx)

Step-by-Step:

  1. Find Your Local IP:
    • Press Windows Key + R, type cmd
    • Type ipconfig and find "IPv4 Address" (e.g., 192.168.1.10)
  2. Access Router Settings:
    • Open browser, go to your router's IP (usually 192.168.1.1 or 192.168.0.1)
    • Login with router credentials (check router label if unknown)
  3. Create Port Forward Rule:
    • Find "Port Forwarding" or "Virtual Server" section
    • Add rule: External Port: 5520, Internal Port: 5520, IP: Your Local IP, Protocol: UDP
  4. Save and Restart Router
  5. Share Your Public IP: Visit whatismyip.com to find your public IP and share it with friends

⚠️ CGNAT Warning: If your ISP uses Carrier-Grade NAT (CGNAT), port forwarding won't work. Use Virtual LAN methods instead or services like Playit.gg.

Solution 4: Enable UPnP

Universal Plug and Play can automatically configure ports for Hytale.

Router UPnP:

  1. Access your router settings (see port forwarding guide above)
  2. Find "UPnP" settings (often under Advanced or Network)
  3. Enable UPnP
  4. Save and restart router

Note: UPnP may not work with all ISPs or router configurations. Virtual LAN is more reliable.

Other Common Issues

Multiplayer Not Working After Update

Solution: Ensure all players are on the same game version. Early Access updates frequently; check for updates in your launcher.

High Ping / Lag

Solutions:

  • Close bandwidth-heavy applications (streaming, downloads)
  • Use wired connection instead of WiFi
  • Server host should close unnecessary programs
  • Reduce server player limit if experiencing lag

Server Shows "Offline" Even Though It's Running

Solutions:

  • Check that server console shows "Server started on port 5520"
  • Verify firewall isn't blocking the server
  • Restart the Hytale server application
  • Ensure you're using Direct Connect, not the server browser (which may not list private servers)

Connection Times Out

Solutions:

  • Verify the IP address is correct (common typo issue)
  • Ensure port number is included (IP:5520)
  • Check that server hasn't crashed (look at server console)
  • Try pinging the IP from command prompt to test connectivity