How to Host Unturned LAN Server – A Beginner’s Guide

Hey Dev, are you new to hosting Unturned LAN servers? Do you want to create your own gaming experience and share it with your friends? In this article, we’ll guide you through the step-by-step process of hosting an Unturned LAN server. We’ll cover everything from the required software to setting up your router and troubleshooting common issues. Let’s get started!

Part 1: Installing the Software

To host an Unturned LAN server, you’ll need to install the dedicated server software on your computer. Here’s how to do it:

Step 1: Download the Server Software

The first step is to download the Unturned dedicated server software. You can find it on the official Unturned Wiki. Make sure to download the version that matches your game client version.

Step 2: Install the Server Software

Once the download is complete, extract the files to a folder on your computer. Open the folder and run the UnturnedServer.exe file. This will start the server software and create the necessary files and folders.

Step 3: Configure the Server Settings

With the server software running, open the Servers folder in the game directory. Open the Commands.dat file and add the following lines:

Command	Description
@name	Your Server Name
@maxplayers	Number of Players
@password	Your Server Password (optional)

Save the file and exit. Your server is now configured and ready to run!

Part 2: Setting up Your Router

In order for your friends to connect to your Unturned LAN server, you’ll need to set up port forwarding on your router. Here’s how to do it:

Step 1: Find Your Router’s IP Address

Open the Command Prompt on your computer and type “ipconfig”. Look for the “Default Gateway” value – this is your router’s IP address.

Step 2: Log in to Your Router

Open your web browser and type your router’s IP address in the address bar. Log in using your router’s username and password.

Step 3: Set up Port Forwarding

Find the port forwarding or virtual server settings in your router’s configuration page. Create a new rule for UDP and TCP traffic on port 27015 (or the port you specified in the server settings). Set the rule to forward traffic to your computer’s IP address.

Part 3: Connecting to Your Server

Now that your server is running and your router is set up, it’s time to connect to your Unturned LAN server. Here’s how to do it:

Step 1: Find Your Server’s IP Address

Open the game and click on the Play button. Click on the Lan tab and look for your server name. The IP address will be displayed next to it.

Step 2: Connect to Your Server

Click on your server name and enter the password (if you set one). You should now be connected to your Unturned LAN server!

Part 4: Troubleshooting Common Issues

Even with the best preparation, you may encounter some issues when hosting an Unturned LAN server. Here are some common problems and their solutions:

Issue 1: Can’t Connect to the Server

If your friends can’t connect to your server, make sure that your router’s port forwarding rules are set up correctly. You can also check your computer’s firewall settings to ensure that Unturned is allowed to receive incoming traffic.

Issue 2: Server is Lagging

If your server is experiencing lag, try reducing the number of players or adjusting the server settings to optimize performance. You can also try restarting the server or your computer to clear any memory or processing issues.

Issue 3: Server Crashes Frequently

If your server is crashing frequently, make sure that you’re running the latest version of the dedicated server software. You can also try disabling any plugins or mods that may be causing conflicts.

Conclusion

Congratulations, Dev! You’ve now successfully hosted an Unturned LAN server. With your new-found knowledge, you can create your own custom game modes and share them with your friends. If you have any further questions, feel free to refer to our FAQ section or leave a comment below. Happy gaming!

FAQ

What is an Unturned LAN server?

An Unturned LAN server is a multiplayer game server that is hosted locally within your own network. This allows you and your friends to play the game together without the need for an internet connection.

Do I need a powerful computer to host a server?

While a more powerful computer can lead to better performance, you can still host a server on a lower-end machine. It’s important to optimize your server settings and limit the number of players to ensure smooth gameplay.

Can I use mods on my server?

Yes, you can use mods on your Unturned LAN server. However, keep in mind that some mods may cause conflicts or performance issues. Always test your server with the mods you intend to use before allowing others to connect.

Can I host a server without port forwarding?

If you don’t want to set up port forwarding on your router, you can use a virtual private network (VPN) to create a virtual LAN connection with your friends. However, this method may introduce additional lag and other connectivity issues.

What is the maximum number of players I can have on my server?

The maximum number of players on your server depends on your computer’s processing power and the available bandwidth. Generally, a maximum of 16 players is recommended for Unturned LAN servers.