Windows: Setting up a Game Server - Join via Local IP, not External

Setting up a Game Server on Windows and Joining via Local IP Address

In this article, we will cover the process of setting up a game server on a Windows machine and joining it via a local IP address instead of a public IP. This setup allows for a more secure and private gaming experience, as it restricts access to the server to devices on the same local network.

Prerequisites

Before we begin, make sure you have the following:

• A Windows machine to serve as the game server
• A second Windows machine or device to act as the client
• The game you wish to play, installed on both machines

Setting up the Game Server

The process for setting up a game server will vary depending on the game you are playing. However, there are a few general steps you can follow:

1. Open the game on the server machine.
2. Navigate to the game's server settings menu.
3. Configure the server settings as desired, such as the game mode, map, and number of players.
4. Make note of the server's local IP address. This can be found by opening a command prompt on the server machine and typing ipconfig.
5. Share the local IP address with any clients who wish to join the server.

Joining the Game Server

To join the game server from the client machine, follow these steps:

1. Open the game on the client machine.
2. Navigate to the game's multiplayer menu.
3. Select the option to join a server by IP address.
4. Enter the server's local IP address, which you obtained in the previous section.
5. The client machine should now be connected to the game server, and you can begin playing.

Additional Considerations

Here are a few additional things to keep in mind when setting up a game server on a Windows machine and joining via a local IP address:

• Make sure both the server and client machines are connected to the same local network.
• If you are using a firewall on the server machine, you may need to create an exception for the game server to allow incoming connections.
• Some games may have additional requirements or considerations for setting up a server. Be sure to consult the game's documentation for more information.

References

• How to Find Your Computer's Local IP Address in Windows, Mac, and Linux
• Port Forward

This article covers the basics of setting up a game server on a Windows machine and joining via a local IP address. By following the steps outlined above, you can create a more secure and private gaming experience for you and your friends.