iTechGuides 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
Prefer not to run the server on your own PC? Godlike.Host offers hosted Vintage Story servers with free DDoS protection and up to three free backups a day.
If a Vintage Story friend cannot join your world, first determine whether the player is on the same home network or connecting over the internet. Same-network play uses Open to LAN, the host computer’s current private IP address, and firewall rules. Internet players need a dedicated setup with TCP and UDP port 42420 forwarded to the host, or a VPN that places everyone on one virtual network.
Work through the checks in that order. Keep the host world open for an Open to LAN session, test with a second device on the same LAN before changing router settings, match the exact game and mod versions, and remove non-vanilla mods while diagnosing. If the world must remain available when the host is not playing, switch to the dedicated server program or a hosted server.
Start by identifying the connection type
The most common mistake is applying an internet-hosting fix to a local-network problem, or expecting Open to LAN to work for someone outside the house. Classify the player before changing settings.
| Player location | Correct approach | What must remain available |
|---|---|---|
| Same home Wi-Fi or Ethernet | Open the single-player world to LAN and connect with the host’s private LAN address. | The host world must stay open in the host’s game session. |
| Outside the home network | Use a dedicated server with router forwarding, or use a VPN that connects the players to one virtual network. | The server process and the forwarded or virtual-network path must stay available. |
| Always-on world for a group | Run the dedicated server program locally or choose a hosted server. | The dedicated server computer or hosting service must remain online. |
For a same-house connection, do not begin with port forwarding. The official Vintage Story troubleshooting guidance recommends testing from another computer on the same LAN first. That test separates game, firewall, and local-network problems from router and internet problems.
#1 Best Overall
- Powerful Turbo Fan:CAGIWIRU Electric Air Duster have reached speed up to 130000RPM,Can efficient remove dust and debris.With LED light and Three Adjustable Speed to meet with different cleaning tasks.
- With Attached USB C Fasting Charging cable.Charing 3 hours,Enjoy up to 240 minutes of use on the lowest setting, For third speed can use for 25mins.with four charging options to meet with your needs.
- Wide Application: attached 5 different nozzles,making it suitable for a variety of scenes, such as car,pet, pc, keyboards, and other electronic devices. It also serves for office and home clean duster.
- Handy Design & Portable:Cordless air duster electric nozzle is Light weight and small size, design and comfortable to hold and space saving, convenient to carry around. You can put it in your room or inside the car without taking up space.
- Economical &Reusable: Built durable materials with a long-lasting battery,our CAGIWIRU air duster it's a sustainable alternative to disposable air cans.
Use this fix order
- Confirm the access type. Decide whether the joining player is on the same reachable LAN or is remote.
- Confirm the host process. An Open to LAN world must still be open; a dedicated setup must have
VintagestoryServer.exerunning. - Check firewall permissions. Permit the appropriate Vintage Story executable on both sides of the connection.
- Enter the host’s current private IP address. Do not reuse an old address after the host reconnects to Wi-Fi.
- Verify network membership. Guest Wi-Fi, client isolation, separate VLANs, or a VPN interface can make two connected devices unable to reach one another.
- Match game and mod versions. Temporarily test with the vanilla Survival, Creative, and Essential mods.
- Check rejection settings. A reachable server can still deny a player because of a whitelist or password.
- Only for remote players, configure TCP and UDP port 42420 or use a VPN.
Open a single-player world to LAN correctly
1. Open the world from the escape menu
Load the single-player world on the host computer. Press Escape and choose Open to LAN. This creates a temporary multiplayer session from that world; it is not an always-on server.
2. Keep the host session open
The host must remain in the world while other players connect and play. Closing the world, leaving the session, or shutting down the host computer ends this ad-hoc server. If the group needs to play while the original host is away, use the dedicated server option described later.
What’s actually slowing this PC down?
Pick the symptom - the matching free tool is one click away.
3. Have the other player add the server manually
On the joining computer, add a server entry using the host’s current private LAN IP address and the configured game port. Manual entry is useful when automatic discovery does not show the world. The host should obtain the address from the computer’s current network information, not from an old screenshot or a previous session.
4. Test from a second device on the same LAN
Before inviting an internet friend, connect a second computer on the same home network. A successful local test confirms that the world is open, the local address is correct, and the basic firewall path works. If the local test fails, router port forwarding will not fix the underlying problem.
Allow Vintage Story through both firewalls
A server can be running and still be unreachable if the operating system blocks its network traffic. The official troubleshooting guidance specifically says not to block internet access for VintagestoryServer.exe. For an Open to LAN session, the host and client game applications also need to be permitted.
Rank #2
- Screen Cleaner is Your Screen’s New Bestfriend! - EVEO is proud to present a screen cleaner that’s perfectly suited for your TV. Meet your new screen cleaner, computer screen cleaner, laptop cleaner, iPad cleaner, Macbook,tv cleaner or any other electronic device. Our screen cleaner spray and wipe along with the included plush microfiber cloth, easily removes dust, fingerprints & other smudges on the screen’s surface. Clean effectively for a streak-free screen
- Gentle on your Screens - Our screen cleaner spray and wipes is compatible to be used even for the most sensitive LCD, LED, CRT, and OLED screens in proper use. Be at ease knowing that this product is compatible with all the major brands: LG, SONY, Samsung, Sharp, iPad, iPhone, Android screens, Kindle, PC monitors - we’ve got you covered! Can be used as LCD screen cleaner, tv cleaner, smart tv screen cleaner, and more
- Premium Super Soft Plush Microfiber Cloth - Included in this efficient screen cleaning kit. This screen cleaner spray and wipe has our signature plush microfiber cloth specially designed to comply with screens and monitors and leave them streak-free. Has been shown to effectively absorbs stubborn stains, zero streaks, and no fiber shedding. Always use this together with our screen cleaner for the best results
- Easy-to-Use Screen Cleaner Kit + microfiber cleaning cloth - The EVEO Screen Cleaning Kit will easily be your new favorite tool when it comes to taking care of the things you love most, quick and easy solution for a streak-free screen. Simply screw on the sprayer gun on the screen cleaner bottle. Spray the cleaning liquid onto the microfiber cloth, then wipe the screen until desired cleanliness & shine is achieved.
- Quality Screen Care Kit Worth Purchasing - Enjoy a convenient Screen Cleaner anytime, anywhere you need it. Your satisfaction is our top priority. We stand behind the quality of our products and that’s why, you shouldn’t be worrying at all. We manufacture the Best Screen Cleaner. and can be used for laptop cleaning kit, laptop screen cleaner, tv screen cleaner for smart tv. MacBook screen cleaner, monitor cleaner or screen cleaner spray for electronic devices with microfiber cleaning cloth
Host computer
- Allow
Vintagestory.exefor the host’s game session when the world is opened to LAN. - Allow
VintagestoryServer.exewhen running a dedicated server. - When the firewall asks for a network profile, apply the permission to the profile actually used by the host’s LAN. Avoid creating a rule that only applies to a disconnected profile.
Joining computer
- Allow
Vintagestory.exethrough the client firewall. - If security software has its own application-control list, add the game there as well.
- After changing a rule, retry the connection rather than relying on a previous failed attempt; some firewall prompts appear only when the application makes a new connection.
Do not treat a temporary firewall shutdown as a permanent solution. If disabling protection appears to help, restore it and create a narrow application or network rule instead. The useful diagnostic result is that the firewall rule needs adjustment, not that the computer should remain unprotected.
Verify the private LAN address and network path
Use the host’s current address
The joining player must use the host computer’s private address on the local network. A router can assign a different local address after the host disconnects and reconnects to Wi-Fi, restarts the router, or changes adapters. Recheck the address whenever the network connection changes.
An address that worked yesterday can therefore produce an “unable to connect” message today even though the world and firewall settings are unchanged. Replace the saved server address with the host’s current private LAN IP, then retry.
Confirm both devices are on the same reachable LAN
Both computers may show that they are connected while still being unable to communicate. Common causes include guest Wi-Fi, wireless client isolation, separate VLANs, or a VPN interface that changes the route. These are networking conditions rather than Vintage Story world settings.
- Connect both devices to the same ordinary home network rather than a guest network.
- Temporarily disconnect a VPN while performing the local test, unless the VPN is intentionally being used as the shared network.
- If the home has multiple access points or wired and wireless segments, test with both computers on the same segment.
- Use another LAN computer for the test before changing game configuration.
If a second device cannot reach the host on the same LAN, resolve the network segmentation or isolation first. If the LAN test succeeds but an external friend fails, move to the remote-player section instead of changing local addresses repeatedly.
Do these 3 things before closing this tab:
1Repair Windows errors before they cause bigger problems2Fix the driver behind crashes, sound loss and screen glitches3Clear out junk files and repair common Windows errorsRank #3
- 【Large size】：Measuring 800 x 300 mm/ 31. 5×12 inches, which is wider and taller than others. Large mouse pad can perfectly fit your keyboard and mouse of any size, and there is also ample space for peripherals such as phones, tablets, etc.
- 【LED backlight mouse pad】：Blade Hawks RGB mouse pad provides 7 static modes and 7 dynamic modes will give you the options you are looking for. Power-off memory function remembers the last lighting mode you selected. The super glow fiber Chroma will give you a colorful gaming setup that you want.
- 【Anti-slip rubber base】：Made from Natural rubber, this gaming mousepad will firmly grip your desktop, allowing you to enjoy the ultimate precision in the games you are most passionate about. It also comes with a texture that enhances this ability even further.
- 【Smooth and waterproof surface】: Micro-textured cloth surface, for extremely precise mouse control and a smooth movement. When liquid splashes on the gaming mouse pad, it forms water droplets and slides down. Will not delay your work or gameplay.
- 【Plug and play】: This mouse and keyboard pad is powered by USB, plug and play, no driver required. One button control light modes. Press one time to change the lighting mode, press twice to change the brightness, press and hold about 3 seconds turn ON/OFF.
Make the game and mod sets compatible
Vintage Story multiplayer requires the client and server to use matching game versions. A connection can fail even when the IP address and firewall are correct if one side has been updated and the other has not.
Check the exact game version
Compare the version shown by the host and every joining player. Update or roll back so that all participants use the same version before testing again. Record the version when a working world is created; that makes it easier to identify an update-related failure later.
Remove mod variables during diagnosis
Mods add another compatibility requirement: the relevant mod must be present in a compatible version on both sides. Compare the enabled mod lists and their versions. Then temporarily remove non-vanilla mods from both client and server and test a clean session.
The official troubleshooting guidance recommends testing with only the vanilla Survival, Creative, and Essential mods. If a vanilla session works, add the other mods back in a controlled sequence until the incompatible item is identified. Do not use a successful vanilla test as proof that every mod is safe; it only isolates the network and base-game path from mod-related failures.
Distinguish a reachable server from a refused player
Not every failed join is a routing failure. A server may be reachable and still reject a player because of access controls.
Rank #4
- 【Softer and More Comfortable】Vaydeer wrist rest has unique diamond pattern, which is the combination of softness and aesthetics. The materials of wrist rest are improved into higher quality memory foam and covered with silky smooth lycra. The computer wrist rest makes you as comfortable and cushiony as like rest your wrists on clouds.
- 【Ergonomic Wrist Saver】The wrist rests for keyboard and mouse comes with a 17.32×3.15×0.83 inch keyboard wrist pad and a 5.94×3.15×0.83 inch mouse wrist support. Based on ergonomic design, the unique concave shape is the perfect fit for your wrist joints. The wrist rest pad fits most computer keyboards and laptops, improve hand and wrist posture, release your wrist and arm stress.
- 【Non-Slip Rubber Bottom】Featuring an anti-skid silicone base on the bottom, this wrist keyboard support stays firmly in place on your desk, preventing the padding from sliding around, ensuring stable and consistent wrist support during extended computer sessions.
- 【Better Experience & Pain Relief】Our keyboard arm rest is beneficial to alleviate the soreness caused by direct contact and friction between your arm and a hard desk surface, reducing the risk of wrist fatigue or carpal tunnel. The soft texture of memory foam can evenly distribute the pressure around your wrists and provide good support with just enough give.
- 【Helpful in Multiple Scenarios】Whether you're working, studying, writing, typing, gaming, this keyboard and mouse rest combo is an essential accessory to add comfort and support to your hands and wrists. It’s also a great gift for men, women, family, friend, coworker, gamer, teacher, etc.
Whitelist checks
If the server uses a whitelist, the host must confirm that the joining player is allowed. Verify the player identity exactly as the server expects it, then retry after the whitelist change has been applied.
Password checks
If a password is configured, provide the current password to the joining player and check for typing errors. A wrong password can look like a general connection failure to someone who has not first confirmed that the server is reachable.
Windows 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 reinstallCrashes, 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 minute“Connection refused”
“Connection refused” usually warrants two checks: whether the server is actually listening on the expected port and whether a firewall rule is rejecting the connection. For Open to LAN, confirm that the host world is still open. For dedicated hosting, confirm that VintagestoryServer.exe is running and that the joining player is using the configured address and port.
Connect remote friends with port forwarding or a VPN
Open to LAN is designed for players on the local network. A friend on another household’s internet connection cannot normally reach that private address directly.
Forward the required port
The official setup guidance specifies forwarding TCP port 42420 and UDP port 42420 from the router to the computer running the server. The forwarding destination must be the host’s current private LAN address. If that address changes, a rule pointing to the old address no longer reaches the server.
Best Value
- 【No Drill Mounted】Cable management tray can be assembled in as little as 3 minutes or less-simply. Side clips easily clampe the edge of desk, pass through the holes on the sides, and secure excess cables with baskets. Desk cable management supports inward or outward installation to meet your needs in different scenarios, and provides you with great convenience when collecting and organizing wires.
- 【Rubber Pad Protects Desk】Wire organizer under desk built-in soft rubber pads on the clamp protect your desk from scratches, so you will not damage your furniture or office.
- 【Sturdy and Beautiful】Cord management under desk is made of high-quality carbon steel and holds about 15 lbs. The wire basket has 2 holes on each side of the tray to enable your cables to pass freely. Cable baskets are suitable for desk thickness use from 0.4" to 2.4".
- 【Space Saving & Keep Organized】Desk cable management tray holds all your power cords, outlet strips, USB hubs and computer transformers hidden from your feet, and the data cables will not enter the vacuum cleaner to keep your desk clean and tidy. Desk wire organizer is also suitable for use in the kitchen and outdoors.
- 【Reduce Safety Risks】Cable tray under desk keeps all plugs away from your kids, no more worry about tripping. Using 2 holes wire tray saves extra space, helps you easily cabling and wire protection. The mesh design is not easy to accumulate dust, but avoids safety accidents caused by messy wires.
After forwarding, the remote player uses the connection address appropriate for the server setup rather than the host’s private LAN address. Keep the host or dedicated server running while the remote player tests.
Free tools Windows power users keep installed
One-click scans. No signup required.
Why automatic UPnP may not be enough
Vintage Story’s guide notes that UPnP can attempt router configuration automatically but may fail. Router firmware, disabled UPnP, carrier-grade network arrangements, or security policies can prevent the automatic mapping. When UPnP does not produce a working path, create the TCP and UDP 42420 rules manually or use a VPN.
Use a VPN when router forwarding is impractical
A VPN can place the players on a shared virtual network, avoiding direct inbound forwarding on the home router. Each participant must join the same VPN network, and the host should still allow the game or server executable through its firewall. Treat the VPN address as a separate network path: use it consistently and avoid mixing it with the host’s ordinary private Wi-Fi address.
Choose dedicated or hosted service for an always-on world
Dedicated server on your own computer
The dedicated server program runs independently of the host’s normal game client. This lets the world remain available while the owner is not actively playing. Run VintagestoryServer.exe, keep its data path separate from the client’s active game data, and apply the same version, mod, firewall, and network checks used for any multiplayer server.
Local self-hosting has an operational cost: the server computer must stay powered on and connected, and remote players still need the router forwarding or VPN path. It is a practical choice when the group wants control over the machine and is comfortable maintaining it.
Recommended Free Tools
Hosted server
A paid hosted service is the simpler persistent option when nobody wants to keep a home computer online or configure a router. The provider handles the server’s availability, while the group remains responsible for choosing compatible game and mod versions and for managing access settings. The exact controls and pricing depend on the provider, so verify those details before purchasing.
For a family or friend group playing in the same building, the official self-hosting overview says local hosting is generally the best fit. For a distributed group that needs the world available at any time, dedicated or hosted service avoids tying availability to one player’s game session.
Symptom-to-fix guide
| What you observe | Most useful next check |
|---|---|
| The world does not appear for a nearby player | Confirm both devices are on the same reachable LAN, then add the host’s current private IP manually. |
| A nearby player receives “unable to connect” | Keep the host world open, verify both firewalls allow the game, and confirm the game versions match. |
| The host can play but nobody else can join | Check the host firewall and confirm the host is using the expected Open to LAN or dedicated-server process. |
| The connection worked until the host rejoined Wi-Fi | Recheck the host’s private LAN address; the router may have assigned a new one. |
| Vanilla works but the modded world fails | Compare mod lists and versions, then add non-vanilla mods back one at a time. |
| An internet friend cannot join, while a same-LAN test works | Configure TCP and UDP 42420 forwarding to the server host, or place everyone on a VPN. |
| The remote path worked through UPnP and then stopped | Inspect the router’s mapping and replace automatic UPnP with manual forwarding if necessary. |
| The server is reachable but a particular player is rejected | Check the whitelist and password before changing router or firewall settings. |
| The group needs to play without the original host | Move the world to the dedicated server program or a hosted server. |
Prevent the problem from returning
- Write down the working game version and mod set before updating either side.
- Keep a record of which computer runs the dedicated server and which private address the router forwards to.
- After any Wi-Fi, router, or adapter change, repeat the same-LAN test before inviting remote players.
- Use a consistent network rather than switching between guest Wi-Fi, a VPN, and the main LAN during diagnosis.
- Keep firewall permissions for the game and server executables after updates; a new executable path or security prompt can require approval again.
- Use Open to LAN for short, local sessions and a dedicated or hosted setup when availability must not depend on the host’s game client.
What the official guidance establishes
The Vintage Story Wiki describes Open to LAN as a temporary multiplayer method: open a single-player world and select the option from the escape menu. Its troubleshooting guidance calls out firewall access for VintagestoryServer.exe, same-LAN testing, matching versions, and vanilla-mod testing. The self-hosting overview distinguishes local hosting from persistent dedicated or paid hosting and warns that UPnP may fail. Those distinctions explain why the correct fix depends on where the player is connecting from and whether the world must remain online without the host.
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.
