Open Factorio and select Play > Multiplayer. Choose Browse public games for an advertised internet server, Browse LAN games for a host on your local network, a Steam friend’s Join Game or invite option when you both use Steam, or Connect to address/Connect to server when the host gives you an address and port.
Godlike.Host offers hosted Factorio servers with its own game panel, SFTP access and free DDoS protection, if you would rather not host it yourself.
Before any route can work, every player must run exactly the same Factorio version and identical mods. A password may be required, and direct internet connections use UDP—normally port 34197 unless the host changed it.
As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.
Pick the joining method that matches the host
Factorio offers four practical ways to enter a multiplayer game. The best choice depends on where the host is running the game, whether the server is listed, and whether the host can accept incoming UDP traffic.
| Route | Use it when | What you select | Connection detail |
|---|---|---|---|
| Public browser | The server is advertised publicly | Play > Multiplayer > Browse public games | The server announces itself to Factorio’s matching service. It may still require a password. |
| Steam friend | A Steam friend is currently playing Factorio | Steam friend list Join Game or an in-game invite | Steam hands the session to Factorio; the game can still ask for the server password. |
| LAN browser | Everyone is on the same local network | Play > Multiplayer > Browse LAN games | Factorio can discover the host locally without an internet connection. |
| Direct address | The host gives you an IP address and port | Play > Multiplayer > Connect to address or Connect to server | The host must expose the selected UDP port and permit it through the firewall. |
If you are unsure, ask the host which of these conditions applies. A server that is intentionally unlisted will not appear in the public browser, while a LAN game will not be discoverable from outside the host’s local network.
#1 Best Overall
- Read Before You Buy — No Video Output: These adapters support charging and USB 2.0 data transfer, but cannot transmit video signals. Except for standard USB webcams (which use USB data only), they are not compatible with HDMI/DisplayPort cables, video-capable USB-C hubs, or docking stations with video output.
- Convert USB-A Ports to USB-C: Designed to connect USB-C earphones, cables, flash drives, card readers, and other USB-C accessories to standard USB-A ports. Plug-and-play with no drivers or software required.
- Aluminum Alloy Housing: Built with a sturdy aluminum alloy shell that aids in heat dissipation and protects against daily wear and scratches. Designed to maintain a stable and secure connection.
- Compact & Travel-Friendly: The ultra-compact design allows the adapter to stay plugged into your device without blocking adjacent ports or adding bulk, reducing wear and tear on your original USB ports.
- 12-Month Warranty: Backed by a 12-month manufacturer warranty for peace of mind. Designed to meet strict quality control standards for reliable everyday performance.
Check these requirements before connecting
Match the game version exactly
All players must run the same Factorio game version. A small version difference is enough to prevent a join or make the game unavailable in the browser. Check the version shown in each player’s Factorio client and update or roll back so they match before trying again.
Install an identical mod set
Every client also needs the same mods. “The same mods” means the same enabled collection, not merely a similar list: a missing mod, an extra mod, or a different mod version can block the connection. Have the host identify the save’s required mods, then enable those mods on every client before joining.
The Tool Desk
Outbyte Driver Updater FREEScan for outdated or missing drivers - takes under a minuteDriver Scan →Outbyte PC Repair FREEClear out junk files and repair common Windows errorsFree Scan →Have the password, if one is set
Hosts can protect public, unlisted, and LAN games with a password. Keep it available before selecting the server. Steam joining does not bypass this control; Factorio may display a password prompt after Steam transfers you to the game.
Know whether the connection is local or internet-based
LAN discovery assumes the devices are on the same local network. An internet connection to a remote host normally uses UDP and depends on the host’s router and firewall configuration. The default Factorio server port is 34197/UDP; a host can configure another port, so use the host’s value rather than assuming the default.
Rank #2
- 5-in-1 USB-C Hub: Experience comprehensive connectivity featuring a Power Delivery input, two USB-A 2.0 ports, a USB-A 3.0 port, and an HDMI port. (Note: The USB-C power delivery input port is only for connecting an external wall charger to power your laptop and cannot power peripheral devices.)
- 90W Pass-Through Charging: Achieve optimal charging with 90W pass-through power to your laptop, supported by a total input of 100W, with the hub reserving 10W for operational efficiency. (Note: Wall charger not included.)
- Quick Data Transfers: Accelerate your productivity with rapid data transfers using a high-speed 5Gbps USB 3.0 port and two 480Mbps USB 2.0 ports.
- 4K HDMI Display: Enhance your visual experience with a hub capable of delivering 4K resolution at 30Hz in both mirror and extend modes. Please note that this hub is compatible with MacBook (macOS 12 and newer), Windows 10 and 11, ChromeOS, and laptops equipped with DP Alt Mode and Power Delivery. Note: This device is not compatible with Linux.
- What You Get: Anker USB-C Hub (5-in-1, 4K HDMI), welcome guide, 18-month warranty, and our friendly customer service.
Join a public Factorio server
Public servers that want to appear in Factorio’s list announce themselves to Factorio’s matching service. If the operator has not enabled that announcement, the server will not be visible in the public browser even when it is running.
- Launch Factorio.
- Select Play, then Multiplayer.
- Choose Browse public games.
- If Factorio asks you to authenticate, sign in with your Factorio.com account.
- Find the server in the list and select it.
- Enter the server password when prompted, then confirm the connection.
If the server is absent, first confirm with the operator that it is intended to be public and that announcement to the matching service is enabled. An unlisted or LAN-only game is expected to be missing from this screen; use the route the host specified instead.
Free tools Windows power users keep installed
One-click scans. No signup required.
Join through a Steam friend
Steam is convenient when the host is already playing and both of you use Steam. The Steam client exposes friends who are currently playing Factorio and can pass a join request into the game.
- Open your Steam friend list while the host is playing Factorio.
- Choose the friend’s profile and select Join Game, or accept an invite sent from Factorio.
- Let Steam hand the session to Factorio.
- Supply the Factorio server password if the host configured one.
This method avoids asking you to type an IP address. It does not remove the version, mod, or password requirements, and the friend must be online in a joinable game when you attempt the handoff.
Rank #3
- Sleek 7-in-1 USB-C Hub: Features an HDMI port, two USB-A 3.0 ports, and a USB-C data port, each providing 5Gbps transfer speeds. It also includes a USB-C PD input port for charging up to 100W and dual SD and TF card slots, all in a compact design.
- Flawless 4K@60Hz Video with HDMI: Delivers exceptional clarity and smoothness with its 4K@60Hz HDMI port, making it ideal for high-definition presentations and entertainment. (Note: Only the HDMI port supports video projection; the USB-C port is for data transfer only.)
- Double Up on Efficiency: The two USB-A 3.0 ports and a USB-C port support a fast 5Gbps data rate, significantly boosting your transfer speeds and improving productivity.
- Fast and Reliable 85W Charging: Offers high-capacity, speedy charging for laptops up to 85W, so you spend less time tethered to an outlet and more time being productive.
- What You Get: Anker USB-C Hub (7-in-1), welcome guide, 18-month warranty, and our friendly customer service.
Join a Factorio LAN game
Use LAN discovery when the host and all joining players are connected to the same home, school, or office network. Factorio supports automatic LAN discovery without an internet connection.
- Make sure the host has loaded the desired save and is accepting multiplayer players.
- On your computer, open Play > Multiplayer.
- Select Browse LAN games. Older Factorio wording may show this as Play on LAN.
- Select the host’s game from the discovered list.
- Enter the password if the host set one.
If nothing appears, verify that both devices are on the same local network rather than one being on a guest Wi-Fi network, mobile hotspot, or separate VLAN. A local firewall can also block discovery or the game’s UDP traffic; the host may need to allow Factorio on the private-network profile.
What’s actually slowing this PC down?
Pick the symptom - the matching free tool is one click away.
Connect by IP address and port
Direct connection is the fallback when the host gives you an address, when the server is deliberately unlisted, or when browser and Steam discovery are unavailable. Ask the host for the current public IP address (or hostname) and the server’s configured port.
- Open Factorio and choose Play > Multiplayer.
- Select Connect to address or Connect to server; the wording depends on the game version.
- Enter the address supplied by the host.
- Enter the supplied port. Use 34197 only when the host confirms that the default is still in use.
- Submit the connection and provide the server password if requested.
Factorio uses UDP for this connection. The host must forward the selected UDP port from the internet-facing router to the computer running Factorio, and the operating-system firewall or security software must allow the same traffic. If the operator changed the port, forwarding and firewall rules must use that custom value rather than 34197.
Rank #4
- Dual Converters, Infinite Potential：Includes 2× USB C male to USB A female adapters and 2× USB A male to USB C female adapters. Perfect for a wide range of uses—tablets with Bluetooth keyboards, expand USB ports on macbook, and more. Two different converters for all your daily needs
- Next-Level 10Gbps & 3A Charging: No more slow 480Mbps, this usb to usb c adapter has a transfer speed of up to 10Gbps, allowing you to do more transferring in less time. This usb adapter fits both USB A and USB C charger, supporting up to 3A fast charging
- Upgraded Exquisite Craftsmanship: With an aluminum alloy housing and metal connector, the usbc to usb adapter is extremely durable and sturdy. Rigorously tested to withstand more than 10,000 times of plugging and unplugging, ensuring long-lasting performance
- Broad Compatible: The usb c to usb adapter widely supports all USB C/ USB A devices like laptops, tablets, cellphones, car chargers, and phone chargers. Such as compatible with MacBook Pro/Air 2023/2022, Thunderbolt 4/3 Devices,Apple MagSafe Watch 9/8/7/SE/Ultra, iPad Pro 2022/2021, Samsung Galaxy S23/S20/S10, and iPhone 17/16/15 Pro. Plug and play
- Please Note: To reach 10Gbps speed, keep the cable under 3.3 ft. For USB A Male to USB C adapters, try flipping the USB C connector. USB C Male to USB A adapters support bidirectional 10Gbps transfer within 3.3 ft
What the host must configure
For a public listing
The operator must enable server announcement to Factorio’s matching service. Only announced servers can populate the public browser. A server can instead be configured as unlisted or LAN-only when the operator does not want it shown publicly.
For an internet connection
The host needs an inbound UDP rule for the configured Factorio port. With the default configuration, that is UDP 34197. On a typical home connection this means forwarding the port on the router to the host computer, allowing the application or port through the computer’s firewall, and ensuring that the router’s public address is the one given to the player.
When the host is behind restrictive NAT or carrier-grade NAT, ordinary port forwarding may not be possible. In that situation, automatic joining can fail even when the game is running. The host may need a virtual-LAN solution or another network arrangement that creates reachable private connectivity.
For a LAN session
The host should permit Factorio’s local network traffic in the firewall and keep the game on a network profile that allows discovery. The players’ devices must be able to see one another on the same local network; guest-network isolation can prevent that even when both devices display the same Wi-Fi name.
Best Value
- 5-in-1 Connectivity: Equipped with a 4K HDMI port, a 5 Gbps USB-C data port, two 5 Gbps USB-A ports, and a USB C 100W PD-IN port. Note: The USB C 100W PD-IN port supports only charging and does not support data transfer devices such as headphones or speakers.
- Powerful Pass-Through Charging: Supports up to 85W pass-through charging so you can power up your laptop while you use the hub. Note: Pass-through charging requires a charger (not included). Note: To achieve full power for iPad, we recommend using a 45W wall charger.
- Transfer Files in Seconds: Move files to and from your laptop at speeds of up to 5 Gbps via the USB-C and USB-A data ports. Note: The USB C 5Gbps Data port does not support video output.
- HD Display: Connect to the HDMI port to stream or mirror content to an external monitor in resolutions of up to 4K@30Hz. Note: The USB-C ports do not support video output.
- What You Get: Anker 332 USB-C Hub (5-in-1), welcome guide, our worry-free 18-month warranty, and friendly customer service.
For a dedicated or headless server
Factorio supports dedicated servers. The Factorio Wiki documents starting a server with a save file by using the --start-server option. Linux has a lightweight headless package, and the normal Windows package can also run headless. Players still connect through the same public, LAN, Steam, or direct-address paths, subject to the server’s visibility, password, port, version, and mod settings.
Do these 3 things before closing this tab:
1Clear out junk files and repair common Windows errors2Scan for outdated or missing drivers - takes under a minute3Repair Windows errors before they cause bigger problemsTroubleshoot a failed connection
The server does not appear in Browse public games
- Ask the host whether the game is meant to be public. Unlisted and LAN-only games are not expected to appear.
- Confirm that the host is still running the save and that public announcement to Factorio’s matching service is enabled.
- Check that you are looking in Browse public games, not the LAN list.
- Try Steam joining or a direct address if the operator has provided those details.
The Steam Join Game option is missing or fails
- Confirm that the friend is currently playing Factorio and has loaded a multiplayer game.
- Use an in-game invite if the Steam friend-list action is unavailable.
- After Steam transfers you to Factorio, enter the server password if one is requested.
- Check the exact game version and mod set on both sides; Steam does not correct mismatches.
The LAN game is not listed
- Verify that every device is on the same local network, not a guest or isolated network.
- Have the host check local firewall rules for Factorio and UDP traffic.
- Confirm that the host has loaded the save and is accepting players.
- If the devices cannot discover one another, use direct connection only if the host can provide a reachable address and port.
Direct IP connection times out
- Ask the host to confirm that the address and port are current and that the server is still running.
- Confirm whether the server uses UDP 34197 or a custom port.
- Have the host verify router forwarding to the correct computer and an allow rule in the operating-system firewall or antivirus.
- Check whether the host’s NAT prevents inbound connections. A virtual-LAN arrangement may be required when forwarding cannot work.
- Try the public browser or Steam route when available, because those routes use Factorio’s matching and connection services rather than requiring you to type the address.
Factorio reports a version or mod problem
Stop the join attempt and compare both installations. The game version must be identical, and the enabled mod collection must match exactly. Install the missing mod, remove the extra one, or change the mod version until the host and client agree; then reconnect.
A password is rejected
Request the current password from the host and enter it exactly. The password belongs to the server configuration, so changing routes—from public browser to Steam or direct address—does not eliminate the requirement.
Capacity and practical limits
Wube Software describes Factorio’s multiplayer system as supporting up to 500 players in a single game. That is a product-level capability statement, not a promise that every map or server can provide a smooth 500-player session. Actual capacity depends on the map, enabled mods, server hardware, simulation load, and network conditions. A small private server can therefore reach its practical limit long before the published maximum.
Quick Recap
A quick choice guide
- Same home or office network: start with Browse LAN games.
- Steam friend currently playing: use Steam’s Join Game or an invite.
- Server advertised to everyone: use Browse public games and authenticate if prompted.
- Host supplied an IP address and port: use Connect to address or Connect to server.
- Any route fails: verify the exact version, identical mods, password, host status, and— for internet connections—UDP reachability on the configured port.
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.
