How to Join Server

Connecting to your Factorio dedicated server is straightforward. This guide covers both direct connection and server browser methods, plus troubleshooting tips for common connection issues.

Method 1: Direct Connection (Recommended)

Use this method when you know your server's IP address and port:

1. Locate your server's IP address and Game Port from your server panel
2. Launch Factorio and click Multiplayer from the main menu
3. Click Connect to Address
4. Enter your server details in the format: IP:PORT
   • Example: 123.45.67.89:34197
   • For local/LAN servers: 192.168.1.100:34197
5. Click Connect

Method 2: Server Browser

Public servers appear automatically in the browser if properly configured:

1. Click Multiplayer from the main menu
2. Click Browse Public Games
3. Use the search filter to find your server by name
4. Double-click the server to connect

Note: Your server must have visibility-public set to true in server-settings.json to appear in the browser.

Mod Synchronization

Factorio automatically handles mod synchronization when connecting:

• The server will send a list of required mods
• Missing mods download automatically (if available on the mod portal)
• Incompatible client mods are temporarily disabled
• You may need to restart Factorio after mod sync completes

Troubleshooting Connection Issues

Connection Timeout: Verify the server is running and check firewall settings. Ensure ports are open on both server and router.

Mod Mismatch: If mods fail to sync, manually download them from the mod portal and place in your Factorio mods folder.

Version Mismatch: Your Factorio client version must exactly match the server version. Check the server's Factorio version and update your client if needed.

Password Protected: If prompted for a password, contact your server administrator or check your server settings file.

LAN Servers

For local network play:

1. Use the server's local IP address (usually starts with 192.168.x.x or 10.x.x.x)
2. No port forwarding required for LAN-only access
3. Ensure all players are on the same network