Do these 3 things before closing this tab:
1Scan for outdated or missing drivers - takes under a minute2Clear out junk files and repair common Windows errors3Fix the driver behind crashes, sound loss and screen glitchesiTechGuides is reader-supported. When you buy through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. Learn more
Godlike.Host offers hosted Euro Truck Simulator 2 servers with its own game panel, SFTP access and free DDoS protection, if you would rather not host it yourself.
There is no permanently free, officially operated ETS2 server that you can create on demand. You can still play Euro Truck Simulator 2 with others at no hosting cost in three practical ways: join TruckersMP, run SCS Software’s Convoy dedicated-server software on your own computer, or use a temporary trial from a commercial host. Each option trades money for control, uptime, player capacity or setup work.
For a private group, self-hosting is the closest match to a “free ETS2 dedicated server.” The official configuration currently limits a session to eight players. TruckersMP is easier for public multiplayer, but its servers are operated by the TruckersMP community and cannot be rented or self-hosted by individual players.
Recommended Free Tools
What “free ETS2 server hosting” really means
Hosting has two separate parts: the multiplayer software and the computer, network connection and electricity that keep it available. SCS Software provides dedicated-server software at no software charge, but it does not provide a free always-on machine for your session. If you run that software at home, the server costs you nothing beyond resources you already own; it stops when the computer shuts down, sleeps or loses its connection.
Joining someone else’s community server is different from hosting your own. TruckersMP lets you play on its network without paying a server bill, but you do not receive a server instance, administrative ownership or the ability to choose its infrastructure. A commercial trial may give you a hosted instance for a short period, but it expires rather than becoming a permanent free service.
#1 Best Overall
- Read Before You Buy — No Video Output: These adapters support charging and USB 2.0 data transfer, but cannot transmit video signals. Except for standard USB webcams (which use USB data only), they are not compatible with HDMI/DisplayPort cables, video-capable USB-C hubs, or docking stations with video output.
- Convert USB-A Ports to USB-C: Designed to connect USB-C earphones, cables, flash drives, card readers, and other USB-C accessories to standard USB-A ports. Plug-and-play with no drivers or software required.
- Aluminum Alloy Housing: Built with a sturdy aluminum alloy shell that aids in heat dissipation and protects against daily wear and scratches. Designed to maintain a stable and secure connection.
- Compact & Travel-Friendly: The ultra-compact design allows the adapter to stay plugged into your device without blocking adjacent ports or adding bulk, reducing wear and tear on your original USB ports.
- 12-Month Warranty: Backed by a 12-month manufacturer warranty for peace of mind. Designed to meet strict quality control standards for reliable everyday performance.
| Option | What is free | What you control | Main limitation |
|---|---|---|---|
| TruckersMP | Joining the mod and its network | Your profile and in-game participation | You cannot self-host or rent a TruckersMP server |
| SCS Convoy dedicated server at home | Server software | Configuration, access and schedules | Your PC, connection and power must remain available |
| Commercial trial | Hosting for the trial period | Usually a hosted control panel and server settings | Trial length and features are temporary and change over time |
| Paid dedicated host | Nothing permanently; you pay monthly | Hosted uptime and server settings | Recurring cost and dependence on the provider |
Option 1: play on TruckersMP without paying for hosting
TruckersMP is a free multiplayer modification and network for truck-simulation games. Its own infrastructure runs the servers that players join. A third-party knowledge base describes the mod as running its own servers and states that it is “in no way affiliated with or supported by SCS Software.” That distinction matters: TruckersMP is not an SCS-operated free dedicated-server program.
What you get
- No monthly server bill for joining the TruckersMP network.
- Public multiplayer activity instead of asking every friend to connect to your home network.
- Community rules, moderation and features defined by TruckersMP rather than by an SCS Convoy server owner.
What you cannot do
- You cannot install TruckersMP’s server software on your own machine.
- You cannot rent a TruckersMP instance from a hosting company and present it as an official TruckersMP server.
- You do not get the same private-session controls as an SCS Convoy server that you administer yourself.
Choose TruckersMP when your priority is finding public traffic and joining an established community. Choose self-hosted Convoy when your priority is a private group, predictable rules and control over who can connect.
Option 2: self-host the official SCS Convoy dedicated server
SCS’s Modding Wiki now documents a Convoy dedicated server. This supersedes the 2021 Convoy FAQ, which said that the player limit was eight and that a dedicated server was not yet available. The older FAQ is useful historical context, not a description of the current dedicated-server tooling.
Before you start
- A computer that can run the dedicated-server application continuously while your group plays.
- A stable internet connection with enough upload capacity for the number of players and traffic in your session.
- Administrative access to the computer and, if the server is at home, to the router’s port-forwarding settings.
- An SCS logon token for the server instance. Every separate instance needs its own token and its own ports.
- Euro Truck Simulator 2 installed and kept on a game version compatible with the dedicated-server software and your players’ clients.
The exact installation and configuration files are maintained in SCS Software’s official Modding Wiki documentation for the dedicated server. Use that documentation for the current download, launch method and file locations rather than relying on an old guide written for the 2021 Convoy implementation.
Rank #2
- 5-in-1 USB-C Hub: Experience comprehensive connectivity featuring a Power Delivery input, two USB-A 2.0 ports, a USB-A 3.0 port, and an HDMI port. (Note: The USB-C power delivery input port is only for connecting an external wall charger to power your laptop and cannot power peripheral devices.)
- 90W Pass-Through Charging: Achieve optimal charging with 90W pass-through power to your laptop, supported by a total input of 100W, with the hub reserving 10W for operational efficiency. (Note: Wall charger not included.)
- Quick Data Transfers: Accelerate your productivity with rapid data transfers using a high-speed 5Gbps USB 3.0 port and two 480Mbps USB 2.0 ports.
- 4K HDMI Display: Enhance your visual experience with a hub capable of delivering 4K resolution at 30Hz in both mirror and extend modes. Please note that this hub is compatible with MacBook (macOS 12 and newer), Windows 10 and 11, ChromeOS, and laptops equipped with DP Alt Mode and Power Delivery. Note: This device is not compatible with Linux.
- What You Get: Anker USB-C Hub (5-in-1, 4K HDMI), welcome guide, 18-month warranty, and our friendly customer service.
Configure the official player and network limits
The sample configuration in the SCS documentation states: max_players: 8, with eight as the maximum players in a session. It also identifies port 27015 as the default connection port and 27016 as the default query port.
| Setting | Official documented value | Why it matters |
|---|---|---|
max_players |
8 maximum | Sets the supported session capacity in the sample configuration |
| Connection port | 27015 by default | Used by clients to reach the game session unless you assign another available port |
| Query port | 27016 by default | Used for server discovery and status queries |
| Logon token | One token per server instance | Identifies the instance to the online service; do not reuse one token across instances |
Practical setup sequence
- Install the dedicated-server files. Follow the current SCS Modding Wiki dedicated-server instructions and place the files in a folder you can back up and update independently from your personal game files.
- Create the server configuration. Start from the supplied sample, set a recognizable session name and keep
max_playersat or below eight unless you deliberately accept an unsupported workaround. - Add the logon token. Generate or obtain the token through the account process specified by SCS and associate one token with this instance only.
- Choose ports. Keep 27015 for connections and 27016 for queries if those ports are free. If another application already uses them, assign different ports and record the new pair.
- Launch the server and read its log. A successful start should show that the configuration loaded and that the process is listening. A port-in-use, malformed-config or authentication error must be fixed before inviting players.
- Keep the host awake. Disable sleep for the hosting machine, prevent the game or server folder from being moved while it is running, and plan for updates during a maintenance window.
- Invite players using the appropriate connection method. If the server is publicly reachable, friends can find it through the session browser. If it is behind NAT and you do not forward ports, give trusted friends the session ID and have them join directly.
Public listing, NAT and port forwarding
A server can run successfully on your PC yet remain invisible in the public session browser. The SCS documentation explains that public visibility requires a public IP address or router port forwarding. You normally forward the selected connection and query ports from the router to the local machine running the dedicated server, then allow the same ports through the computer’s firewall.
What’s actually slowing this PC down?
Pick the symptom - the matching free tool is one click away.
Direct joining by session ID is the useful exception. Friends can connect to a session behind NAT when they have its session ID, even when the server is not listed publicly. This is often the safer arrangement for a small private group because it avoids exposing a browsable endpoint, although your home IP is still part of the connection path and should be treated as private information.
Common network checks
- Give the hosting computer a stable local address, or create a DHCP reservation, so a router rule does not point to a changing address.
- Forward both the connection and query ports you selected; forwarding only one can prevent listing or joining.
- Permit the dedicated-server executable through the operating system firewall for the intended network profile.
- Test from a friend’s separate internet connection. Testing only from inside your own LAN can produce a false success because some routers do not support loopback connections.
- If your internet provider uses carrier-grade NAT, ordinary port forwarding may not work because you do not receive a directly reachable public IPv4 address. Use session-ID joining or a hosted server instead.
Can you raise the eight-player limit?
There is a community-reported workaround that changes the client setting to uset g_max_convoy_size "128" and edits the server-side config_ds.cfg. Reports describe a convoy cap of up to 128 players with this approach. It is not documented or supported by SCS Software, so it is not equivalent to an official 128-player mode.
Rank #3
- Sleek 7-in-1 USB-C Hub: Features an HDMI port, two USB-A 3.0 ports, and a USB-C data port, each providing 5Gbps transfer speeds. It also includes a USB-C PD input port for charging up to 100W and dual SD and TF card slots, all in a compact design.
- Flawless 4K@60Hz Video with HDMI: Delivers exceptional clarity and smoothness with its 4K@60Hz HDMI port, making it ideal for high-definition presentations and entertainment. (Note: Only the HDMI port supports video projection; the USB-C port is for data transfer only.)
- Double Up on Efficiency: The two USB-A 3.0 ports and a USB-C port support a fast 5Gbps data rate, significantly boosting your transfer speeds and improving productivity.
- Fast and Reliable 85W Charging: Offers high-capacity, speedy charging for laptops up to 85W, so you spend less time tethered to an outlet and more time being productive.
- What You Get: Anker USB-C Hub (7-in-1), welcome guide, 18-month warranty, and our friendly customer service.
Expect practical risks: clients and servers may disagree about the limit, performance can deteriorate as traffic and synchronization increase, and a game update can rename, ignore or overwrite the setting. Keep a backup of the original configuration, test with a small group first and be prepared to revert to the supported eight-player configuration. Do not advertise the workaround as a guaranteed capacity to friends or paying users.
Option 3: free trials and low-cost hosted servers
Some commercial providers offer short trials. A trial can be useful for testing whether your group needs 24/7 availability, but its duration, included resources and eligibility rules can change. It is not a free permanent server: when the trial ends, the instance is suspended, deleted or converted to a paid plan unless you cancel or continue billing.
The Tool Desk
Outbyte PC Repair FREERepair Windows errors before they cause bigger problemsFix Now →Outbyte Driver Updater FREEScan for outdated or missing drivers - takes under a minuteDriver Scan →Paid plans remove the need to leave your home computer running. One provider advertises dedicated Convoy servers from £2.48 per month; that is an advertised starting price, not a universal market rate, and prices, taxes, locations and included resources can change. Verify the current checkout terms before relying on the figure.
Questions to ask before accepting a trial
- Does the trial require a payment method or automatically convert to a recurring subscription?
- How long does the trial last, and is the server deleted when it expires?
- Which game version, map content and mods are supported?
- Can you download your configuration and logs before cancellation?
- Is the advertised player capacity the official eight-player limit, or does it rely on an unsupported modification?
- Which geographic region hosts the server, and what support is available if it goes offline?
Marketing pages sometimes say that every player must own the game and matching map DLC. That is a reasonable licensing and compatibility expectation, but it has not been established here as a universal SCS rule. Confirm the requirement with the specific host and the current game documentation rather than assuming that one provider’s wording applies to every setup.
Rank #4
- Dual Converters, Infinite Potential：Includes 2× USB C male to USB A female adapters and 2× USB A male to USB C female adapters. Perfect for a wide range of uses—tablets with Bluetooth keyboards, expand USB ports on macbook, and more. Two different converters for all your daily needs
- Next-Level 10Gbps & 3A Charging: No more slow 480Mbps, this usb to usb c adapter has a transfer speed of up to 10Gbps, allowing you to do more transferring in less time. This usb adapter fits both USB A and USB C charger, supporting up to 3A fast charging
- Upgraded Exquisite Craftsmanship: With an aluminum alloy housing and metal connector, the usbc to usb adapter is extremely durable and sturdy. Rigorously tested to withstand more than 10,000 times of plugging and unplugging, ensuring long-lasting performance
- Broad Compatible: The usb c to usb adapter widely supports all USB C/ USB A devices like laptops, tablets, cellphones, car chargers, and phone chargers. Such as compatible with MacBook Pro/Air 2023/2022, Thunderbolt 4/3 Devices,Apple MagSafe Watch 9/8/7/SE/Ultra, iPad Pro 2022/2021, Samsung Galaxy S23/S20/S10, and iPhone 17/16/15 Pro. Plug and play
- Please Note: To reach 10Gbps speed, keep the cable under 3.3 ft. For USB A Male to USB C adapters, try flipping the USB C connector. USB C Male to USB A adapters support bidirectional 10Gbps transfer within 3.3 ft
Which free approach fits your group?
| Your priority | Best fit | Reason |
|---|---|---|
| Join public multiplayer immediately | TruckersMP | No server administration, router setup or home-host uptime requirement |
| Private sessions for up to eight friends | Self-hosted SCS dedicated server | No hosting fee and full control over the session configuration |
| Friends need to connect while your PC is off | Paid hosting | The provider keeps the machine online; free home hosting cannot promise that |
| Try hosted administration before paying | Commercial trial | Lets you evaluate control panels and latency, but only temporarily |
| More than eight players | Check current supported alternatives first | The official Convoy limit is eight; the 128-player setting is unsupported |
Troubleshooting a free self-hosted server
Friends cannot see the server
Confirm that the server process is running, the query port is forwarded, the firewall rule applies to the correct executable and the router forwards to the host’s current local IP. If public listing still fails, use a session ID to distinguish a discovery problem from a server-startup problem.
Friends cannot join by session ID
Check that everyone is using a compatible ETS2 version, that the host is still online and that the session has not reached eight players. Read the server log for authentication or token errors, then restart the instance after correcting the configuration.
The server starts and then exits
Look for a duplicate port, invalid syntax, missing token or a file permission failure. If you created multiple instances, verify that each has unique connection and query ports as well as its own logon token.
Players report lag or disconnects
Measure the host’s upload use while the convoy is busy, stop unrelated uploads and avoid running the server on a machine that is throttled by power-saving settings. A distant hosted region or an overloaded home connection can affect latency even when the server configuration is correct.
Best Value
- 5-in-1 Connectivity: Equipped with a 4K HDMI port, a 5 Gbps USB-C data port, two 5 Gbps USB-A ports, and a USB C 100W PD-IN port. Note: The USB C 100W PD-IN port supports only charging and does not support data transfer devices such as headphones or speakers.
- Powerful Pass-Through Charging: Supports up to 85W pass-through charging so you can power up your laptop while you use the hub. Note: Pass-through charging requires a charger (not included). Note: To achieve full power for iPad, we recommend using a 45W wall charger.
- Transfer Files in Seconds: Move files to and from your laptop at speeds of up to 5 Gbps via the USB-C and USB-A data ports. Note: The USB C 5Gbps Data port does not support video output.
- HD Display: Connect to the HDMI port to stream or mirror content to an external monitor in resolutions of up to 4K@30Hz. Note: The USB-C ports do not support video output.
- What You Get: Anker 332 USB-C Hub (5-in-1), welcome guide, our worry-free 18-month warranty, and friendly customer service.
An update breaks the workaround
Restore the supported configuration, remove the custom 128-player setting and test with eight or fewer players. Unsupported edits are the first suspect after a game update; do not assume that a previously working value remains valid.
Security and privacy when hosting at home
Port forwarding makes your home connection reachable from the internet and can expose your public IP to people who connect. Forward only the ports required by the server, keep the operating system and server files updated, use a separate administrator account where practical and do not share your logon token. Restrict the session to trusted players if you do not need a public listing.
Crashes, No Sound, or Screen Glitches?
Random freezes, missing sound and display glitches usually trace back to one bad driver. Find and replace yours safely.Free scan · under a minuteWindows Errors? Fix Them Before They Spread
Repair common Windows errors and clear accumulated junk for a smoother, more stable PC - no reinstall needed.Free scan · no reinstallBack up the configuration and logs before updates. Record which ports, token and launch parameters belong to each instance so that a second server does not accidentally reuse the first server’s identity. If exposing your home network is unacceptable, use session-ID joining without public forwarding or choose a paid provider.
The bottom line on free ETS2 hosting
For a small private convoy, run the official SCS Convoy dedicated server on your own machine, keep the supported limit of eight players and use session IDs if you do not need a public listing. For public play without administration, join TruckersMP, understanding that it is an independent community network that you cannot self-host. Treat free trials as temporary tests, not permanent hosting, and regard any 128-player configuration as an unsupported experiment rather than an official capability.
Quick Recap
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.
