Ark Can’t Join Friends Non Dedicated Server

Hello, Dev! If you’ve been playing Ark: Survival Evolved, you probably know how frustrating it can be when you can’t join your friends’ non-dedicated server. This issue has been reported by many players and can be caused by different factors. In this article, we will discuss the possible reasons for this problem and provide you with solutions to fix it. Keep reading to learn more.

Reasons why you can’t join your friends’ nondedicated server

There are several reasons why you may be unable to join your friend’s non-dedicated server. Below are some of them:

1. Firewall settings

One of the reasons why you can’t join your friend’s non-dedicated server is because of your firewall settings. If your firewall is blocking incoming connections, you won’t be able to connect to their server. Ensure that your firewall settings are configured correctly to allow incoming connections to Ark.

2. NAT Type

NAT Type can also be a reason why you can’t join your friend’s non-dedicated server. NAT Type determines how easily you can connect to other players’ devices. Ensure that your NAT Type is set to open for better connectivity.

3. Different Versions

Another reason why you might not be able to join your friend’s non-dedicated server is that they may be running a different version of the game. It is important to ensure that both you and your friend are running the same version of the game.

4. Server Capacity

If the server you are trying to join is at full capacity, you will be unable to connect. Ensure that the server has enough slots for you to join before trying.

5. Connection Issues

Connection issues can also be a reason why you can’t join your friend’s non-dedicated server. Ensure that your internet connection is stable and that you have a strong signal before attempting to join the server.

Solutions to fix the issue of not joining your friends non-dedicated server

Now that we know some of the reasons why you can’t join your friend’s non-dedicated server let’s look at some solutions to fix these issues.

1. Check Firewall settings

If your firewall settings are blocking connections from Ark, you need to change them to allow incoming connections. To do this, follow these steps:

Step
Description
Step 1
Open Windows Defender Firewall by searching for it in the search bar.
Step 2
Click on “Allow an app or feature through Windows Defender Firewall.”
Step 3
Click on “Change settings” and then click on “Allow another app.”
Step 4
Find Ark and add it to the list of allowed apps.

2. Check NAT Type

To check your NAT Type and change it if needed, follow these steps:

Step
Description
Step 1
Open the settings on your Xbox or PlayStation.
Step 2
Go to the network settings and check your NAT Type.
Step 3
If your NAT Type is not set to open, port forwarding may be necessary.
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3. Check Game Version

To ensure that both you and your friend are running the same version of the game, follow these steps:

Step
Description
Step 1
Open Ark on your device.
Step 2
Check the game version, and ensure that it matches your friend’s version. If not, update the game.

4. Check Server Capacity

To ensure that the server you are trying to join has enough slots, ask your friend or check the server’s capacity in the server settings.

5. Check Connection Issues

To check for connection issues, ensure that your internet connection is stable and that you have a strong signal. Additionally, try restarting your router or resetting your network.

FAQs

1. How do I know if my NAT Type is open?

You can check your NAT Type in the network settings of your Xbox or PlayStation. If your NAT Type is open, you will be able to connect more easily to other devices.

2. Can I join a non-dedicated server if the game version is different?

No, you cannot join a non-dedicated server if the game version is different. Both you and your friend need to have the same game version for you to be able to join the server.

3. How do I check my firewall settings?

You can check your firewall settings by searching for Windows Defender Firewall in the search bar on your device. Then, click on “Allow an app or feature through Windows Defender Firewall” and check that Ark is allowed through the firewall.

Conclusion

In this article, we have discussed the possible reasons why you might not be able to join your friend’s non-dedicated server in Ark: Survival Evolved. We have also provided you with solutions to these issues. By following these steps, you should be able to join your friend’s server with ease. If you have any more questions, feel free to leave them in the comments section below.