Issues

SnowRunner Connection Issues

SnowRunner uses a P2P (peer-to-peer) connection, unlike most multiplayer games. To summarize, with such a connection, one of the players becomes a server (host) for all other players - they connect directly to that computer, and all information about the session is stored on it. This type of connection has both pros and cons. One of the disadvantages is that said connection is heavily dependent on your internet connection settings. It can be blocked by the settings of your ISP, router, firewall, antivirus, and other software that may intervene with your connection.

 

Ports

Please make sure that the following ports are open on your router and in the firewall (for all co-op players):

  • TCP: 11700-11710
  • UDP: 48800-48810

 

To open ports in the firewall, please do the following:

  • Search for Windows Defender Firewall with Advanced Security;
  • Open Inbound Rules and click on "New Rule..." on the right side of the window;
  • Make rule SR1: Port > TCP > Specific local ports 11700-11710 > Allow the connection;
  • Make rule SR2: Port > UDP > Specific local ports 48800-48810 > Allow the connection;
  • Open Outbound Rules and do the previous two steps with opening ports.


Here is a general guide on how to open ports on your router. If your device is connected via Wi-Fi, please try connecting it directly with a LAN cable. Also, make sure SnowRunner is added to antivirus exceptions.

 

NAT Types

Network Address Translation (NAT) is the ability of a router to translate a public IP address to a private IP address and vice versa. It adds security to the network by keeping private IP addresses hidden from the outside world.

There are several NAT types:

  • Type 1 (Open): The system is directly connected to the Internet (no router or firewall), and you should have no problems connecting to other systems;
  • Type 2 (Moderate): The system is properly connected through a router, and you won’t have problems;
  • Type 3 (Strict): The system is connected through a router without open ports or DMZ setup, and you may have problems related to the connection or voice chat.

To achieve the best gaming experience, you must have NAT Types 1 or 2. Connecting your hardware directly to an internet cable or enabling UPnP on your router should help achieve the best connection. Additionally, you may need to forward ports.

 

Alternate MAC Address (Xbox)

Clear the alternate MAC address following these steps:

  • Open the Xbox Guide by pressing the guide button on the controller and selecting Settings.
  • Select Network Settings.
  • Select Advanced Settings.
  • Under Change Settings, select Alternate MAC Address.
  • Select Clear.
  • Allow the console to restart when prompted.


If the problem persists, make sure you did everything correctly and contact your ISP and check the info about the ports, they may be closed on their side. Switching to a static IP address should solve the issue if you have a dynamic IP address. Another solution may be using VPN. You can always try a free VPN service to test and see if it works.