Why can''t my friend see my server in the Valheim server list?

If your friend cannot see your Valheim server in the server list, the issue is often related to connectivity, server settings, or technical configurations. Valheim uses a peer-to-peer system for multiplayer, which means the host''s computer acts as the server. This setup can lead to visibility issues if certain steps are not followed correctly. Below, we’ll explore the most common reasons and solutions to ensure your server appears in the list.\n\nFirst, ensure that both you and your friend are using the same version of Valheim. Game updates can cause compatibility issues, so check that both of you have the latest version installed. If one player is on an older version, the server will not appear in the list. To update, restart Steam and verify the game files by right-clicking Valheim in your library, selecting Properties, and navigating to the Local Files tab to click Verify Integrity of Game Files.\n\nNext, confirm that your server is set to public or that your friend has the correct IP address if it’s private. When starting the server, you can choose between a public or private setting. Public servers are visible to everyone in the server list, while private servers require the host to share the IP address and password. If your server is private, ensure your friend enters the correct IP address and password in the Join Game section. You can find your IP address by searching What is my IP on any browser.\n\nFirewall or antivirus software can also block the server from being visible. Valheim requires specific ports to be open for multiplayer: 2456-2458 (TCP/UDP). Check your firewall settings to ensure these ports are open. On Windows, you can do this by navigating to Windows Defender Firewall, selecting Advanced Settings, and creating inbound and outbound rules for these ports. If you’re using a router, log into its settings and forward the same ports to your computer’s local IP address.\n\nAnother common issue is NAT (Network Address Translation) type. If your NAT type is strict, it can prevent your server from being visible. To fix this, enable UPnP (Universal Plug and Play) on your router. This setting allows devices on your network to automatically open the necessary ports. If UPnP is not an option, manually forward the ports as described earlier.\n\nIf you’re using a dedicated server, ensure the server is properly configured and running. Dedicated servers require a separate setup process, including downloading the Valheim Dedicated Server tool from Steam and configuring the server files. Double-check the server’s IP address and ensure it’s accessible from your friend’s location. You can test this by having your friend ping the server’s IP address.\n\nFinally, if none of the above solutions work, consider using a VPN. Sometimes, regional restrictions or ISP issues can prevent server visibility. A VPN can help bypass these restrictions by masking your IP address and routing the connection through a different location. Both you and your friend should connect to the same VPN server for the best results.\n\nIn summary, server visibility issues in Valheim are often caused by version mismatches, incorrect settings, or network configurations. By ensuring both players are on the same version, opening the correct ports, and properly configuring your server, you can resolve most issues. If problems persist, using a VPN or switching to a dedicated server may provide a solution. Happy adventuring!