ThisCalculator

Everyday

Days to Die Stuck on Connecting to Server: Full Fix

Updated · Standard formula, shown below

Days to Die Stuck on Connecting to Server: Full Fix

If your 7 Days to Die game is stuck on the “Connecting to Server� screen when trying to join a multiplayer game, the fix usually involves a combination of verifying game files, adjusting firewall or router settings, and resetting the network connection. This guide walks you through the most effective solutions, from quick checks to advanced port forwarding, so you can get back into the game.

Why Does 7 Days to Die Get Stuck on “Connecting to Server�?

The “Connecting to Server� screen appears when your client is trying to establish a connection to the host’s game world. When it hangs, it means the handshake between your computer and the server is incomplete. Common causes include:

  • Network firewall blocking the game – Windows Defender or third-party antivirus may block the required ports.
  • Router NAT or UPnP issues – The server you’re joining may not be reachable due to port forwarding problems.
  • Corrupted game files – A missing or damaged file can prevent the connection from completing.
  • Outdated game version – Mismatched client and server versions often cause connection timeouts.
  • ISP or VPN interference – Some networks block peer-to-peer connections or specific ports.

Quick Checks Before You Start Fixing

Before diving into deeper troubleshooting, try these fast checks that resolve many connection hangs:

  1. Restart the game and Steam – Exit completely, then relaunch. Sometimes a temporary glitch clears.
  2. Check server status – If you’re joining a public server, it may be down or full. Try a different server.
  3. Update the game – Ensure both your client and the server are on the same version. Check the game’s news or server browser for version numbers.
  4. Disable VPN or proxy – If you use one, turn it off temporarily and try again.
  5. Ping the server – From the server list, note the IP and port, then open Command Prompt and type ping [IP]. If you get no replies, the server may be unreachable from your network.

Step-by-Step Fix: Verify Game Files and Update Drivers

Corrupted game files are a frequent culprit. Verifying them through Steam is a safe, quick process:

  1. Open Steam and go to your Library.
  2. Right-click 7 Days to Die and select Properties.
  3. Go to the Local Files tab and click Verify Integrity of Game Files.
  4. Wait for the process to finish (it may take a few minutes).
  5. Restart the game and try connecting again.

While you’re at it, update your network drivers (especially if you’re on Wi-Fi) and your graphics drivers. Outdated drivers can cause timeouts in some cases, though it’s less common than file corruption.

Adjust Windows Firewall and Antivirus Settings

Windows Defender or third-party antivirus software may block the game’s network access. Here’s how to allow it:

  1. Open Windows Security (or your antivirus program).
  2. Go to Firewall & network protection and click Allow an app through firewall.
  3. Click Change settings (you may need admin rights).
  4. Find 7 Days to Die in the list. If it’s not there, click Allow another app and browse to the game’s executable (usually in Steam\steamapps\common\7 Days To Die).
  5. Ensure both Private and Public boxes are checked for the game.
  6. If you use third-party antivirus, add an exception for the game folder and the Steam executable.

Router Settings: Port Forwarding and UPnP

If you’re hosting a server (or joining one that you host), port forwarding is essential. 7 Days to Die uses the following ports by default:

  • TCP 26900 – for game connections
  • UDP 26900 – for game connections
  • UDP 26901 – for Steam query

To forward these ports on your router:

  1. Find your router’s IP (usually 192.168.1.1 or 192.168.0.1) and log in.
  2. Look for Port Forwarding or Virtual Server in the settings.
  3. Create a new rule for each port, forwarding to the local IP of the computer running the server.
  4. Use both TCP and UDP for port 26900.
  5. Save and reboot the router.

Also, enable UPnP on your router if it’s available. This allows the game to automatically open ports, but it’s less reliable than manual forwarding.

Common Mistakes and Misconceptions

One common mistake is assuming the issue is always on the client side. If you’re joining a friend’s server, the problem may be on their end. Ask them to verify their own files and port forwarding.

Another misconception is that the “Connecting to Server� screen means the game is downloading content. In 7 Days to Die, this screen appears only during connection establishment, not during downloads. If it stays for more than a minute, something is wrong.

Also, note that using a modded server may require the same mods installed on your client. A mismatch in mods can cause a hang. Check the server’s mod list and install the same ones.

Advanced Troubleshooting: Reset Network and Check Hosts File

If basic fixes fail, try resetting your network stack:

  1. Open Command Prompt as administrator.
  2. Type ipconfig /flushdns and press Enter.
  3. Type netsh winsock reset and press Enter.
  4. Type netsh int ip reset and press Enter.
  5. Restart your computer.

Also, check your hosts file for any entries that might block Steam or the game. The file is located at C:\Windows\System32\drivers\etc\hosts. It should only contain lines starting with # (comments) and possibly a localhost entry. If you see any Steam-related entries, remove them (but back up the file first).

When All Else Fails: Reinstall the Game

If none of the above works, a clean reinstall is the last resort. Uninstall the game through Steam, then delete the remaining game folder in Steam\steamapps\common\7 Days To Die. Also, delete the save folder in %AppData%\7DaysToDie (back up your saves first if you want to keep them). Then reinstall the game. This clears any corrupted configuration files that may not be fixed by verification.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why does it only happen on certain servers?

If you can join some servers but not others, the issue is likely with the specific server’s configuration, such as incorrect mods, version mismatch, or the server being offline. Check the server’s ping and player count in the browser—if it shows 0 players and 0 ping, it may be offline.

Do I need to port forward if I only join servers?

No, port forwarding is only needed if you are hosting a server. For joining, you only need outbound access, which is usually allowed by default. However, if you have a strict NAT, you may still have issues—try enabling UPnP on your router.

Can a VPN cause this problem?

Yes, VPNs can interfere with game connections by routing traffic through distant servers or blocking certain ports. Disconnect your VPN and try again. If it works, you may need to configure split tunneling to only route Steam through the VPN, or play without it.

How long should I wait before giving up?

Typically, if the connection doesn’t establish within 30–60 seconds, it’s stuck. You can cancel and retry, but if it repeatedly hangs, move on to the fixes above. There’s no official timeout, but waiting more than a minute is usually pointless.

Does the game version matter?

Yes, absolutely. If the server is running a different version (e.g., a stable vs. experimental build), the connection will fail. Always match your client version to the server’s. You can switch between versions in Steam under Properties > Betas.

Is there a way to connect directly via IP?

Yes, you can use the “Connect to IP� option in the game’s main menu. Enter the server’s IP and port (e.g., 192.168.1.10:26900). This bypasses the server browser and can sometimes resolve issues with the browser not refreshing properly.

Related

Method: the standard formula for this calculation, rounded as each result states. See how the calculators work or report an error.