PROBLEM:
- I am experiencing issues with online features of Stellaris on PC. What can I do?
- When I try to join a game I get a message saying “Game not found”. What can I do?
- I cannot join any games through the game browser. What can I do?
SOLUTIONS:
If you experience problems regarding the game's connectivity, such as hosting or joining a game, there are a number of steps you can try. We will list them in this article, starting with the most basic ones. We recommend that you follow them in the order they are listed below..
If you're playing online (multiplayer) at an office or other location with a shared network, a firewall or other security measures might prevent your game client from connecting to other players. If this occurs, please refer to step 4 listed below.
Communication might be restricted depending on the security functions provided by your router or Internet service provider. Refer to the instructions supplied with the network device in use, and information from your Internet service provider.
Here is the list of steps you can try:
1. TURN OFF AND ON ALL NETWORK DEVICES
Turn off (unplug) all of your network devices and equipment making sure all lights on the modems has turned off, including any wireless access points, routers, for two (2) full minutes.This will allow your network hardware to re-establish a fresh connection to your ISP.
2. BYPASS THE ROUTER/HUB/SWITCH TO ISOLATE THE PROBLEM
Try connecting your computer directly to your cable/DSL modem using an Ethernet cable. This step will help isolate the issue solely to the router/hub/switch hardware.
PLEASE NOTE THAT DOING THIS INCREASES THE RISK OF YOUR COMPUTER BEING INFECTED BY MALICIOUS SOFTWARE!
3. SOFTWARE CONFLICTS
Make sure that no software running on your PC is affecting your ability to connect, for example software Firewalls.
4. ENABLE UPNP IN YOUR ROUTER
UPnP stands for Universal Plug and Play and is a feature that allows applications to automatically forward ports. It can be toggled on or off in your router settings. Due to the number of different router models on the market we are not able to tell you exactly how to do this on your home router. We suggest that you consult the router's manual or contact your ISP if you are in doubt.
5. CONFIRM PORT FORWARDING
Confirm that all of the ports UDP 17780-17785 are open. If any of those ports cannot be used, you should adjust your router's port forwarding setting to allow communication between your game client and other players. For details on how to adjust these settings, you should refer to the instructions supplied with your router or contact your ISP.
6. HOSTS FILE
Rule out that an outdated configuration blocks our connection.
7. FLUSH DNS
Obtain an up to date IP address of the webservice you want to connect to.
8. EXTERNAL RESTRICTIONS
Check for other factors that may limit your ability to connect.
9. HAVE ANOTHER PLAYER HOST THE GAME
In case you’re playing with a friend there’s a chance that player has a less restricted firewall and it will likely help to have that player host the game instead.
If you continue to have trouble after trying these steps, please feel free to open a ticket.