Windows Errors? Fix Them Before They Spread
Repair common Windows errors and clear accumulated junk for a smoother, more stable PC - no reinstall needed.Free scan · no reinstallOutdated Drivers Are Slowing You Down
One free scan finds every outdated or missing driver and matches the right update for your exact hardware.Free scan · exact hardware matchIf your Vintage Story server is missing from the public server list, check reachability before changing anything else. For version 1.20 and later, forward port 42420 on both TCP and UDP, enable "AdvertiseServer": true in serverconfig.json, allow the current server executable through the firewall, and verify that your internet connection is not behind carrier-grade NAT (CGNAT). Then test a direct connection by IP and port. That sequence separates a routing failure from a master-list advertising problem.
Playing with friends? Godlike.Host runs hosted Vintage Story servers from 10 data-center locations, with free DDoS protection.
The public browser is only one way to connect. A server can be running correctly while absent from the list, or it can appear in the list while clients cannot reach it. The checks below identify which condition you have and provide a recovery path for home networks, restricted ISPs, and hosted machines.
As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.
What’s actually slowing this PC down?
Pick the symptom - the matching free tool is one click away.
First identify what is failing
“Not showing up” can describe three different failures:
- Listing failure: the server is reachable, but the public browser does not display it.
- Reachability failure: the server process is running, but internet traffic never reaches it.
- Compatibility failure: the client reaches the host but cannot complete the connection because the client and dedicated server builds differ.
Start with a direct connection using the host’s public IP address and port 42420. If that succeeds, routing is working and the remaining problem is advertising, browser refresh, or server metadata. If it fails, continue with the port, firewall, and ISP checks before troubleshooting the list.
#1 Best Overall
- BLUE LIGHT BLOCKING GLASSES: Our blue light glasses for women boast UV400 protection, blocking harmful blue rays from computer screens. With these bluelight glasses women, you can enjoy gaming, reading, or watching TV with no worries of eye strain.
- EYE RELIEF: Our blue light glasses are engineered to reduce blurry vision or strain caused by prolonged screen time. These womens blue light glasses aid in better sleep by preventing blue light from disrupting your natural sleep cycle, helping you fall asleep faster and enjoy a more restful night's sleep, making them the perfect christmas present.
- COMFORTABLE: Crafted from durable material, our trendy blue light glasses for woman or blue light glasses men ensure long-lasting comfort. The high-transmittance lenses accessories, gamer gifts for men, help keep your eyes relaxed. Perfect stocking stuffers, gifts for gamers men, christmas gifts for men, halloween costumes.
- LIGHTWEIGHT: These clear blue light glasses feature a lightweight frame, meaning they’ll stay comfy for long-term wear. Perfect as blue blockers glasses for women or mens blue light glasses, these non-prescription fake glasses for men can be worn throughout the day. The blue light blocking glasses women feature polycarbonate HD lenses, which are anti-reflective and restore true color.
- WORRY-FREE PURCHASE: If you experience any issues, our support team is ready to assist you quickly. These are the perfect costume glasses for cosplay dressing up.
Use the required port and protocols
Default port
The dedicated server guide identifies 42420 as Vintage Story’s default port. Unless you deliberately changed the server port, use 42420 in the server configuration, router rule, firewall rules, and direct-connect address.
Forward TCP and UDP for version 1.20 and later
For version 1.20 and later, forwarding only TCP is the most common setup error described by current hosting guides. Create two rules that point to the same computer running the dedicated server:
| External port | Internal port | Protocol | Destination |
|---|---|---|---|
| 42420 | 42420 | TCP | LAN address of the server computer |
| 42420 | 42420 | UDP | LAN address of the server computer |
Do not forward one rule to one machine and the other rule to a different machine. Both protocols must terminate on the host that is running the Vintage Story server. If you changed the server to a non-default port, substitute that port consistently; the evidence here specifically establishes 42420 as the default.
Turn on public advertising
Check serverconfig.json
Public-browser registration requires advertising to be enabled. Open the server’s serverconfig.json and confirm this setting:
"AdvertiseServer": trueJSON is case-sensitive. A value of false, a misspelled property, or invalid JSON can prevent the server from registering. Stop the server before editing the file, save it, and start the server again so the configuration is reloaded.
Rank #2
- WINDEX GAMING WIPES: effortlessly clean all your gaming gear and gaming electronics in one easy step with our new Windex Gaming Wipes
- AMMONIA FREE: our ammonia-free formula is safe to use on all of your favorite gaming equipment like consoles, headsets, controllers, screens, keyboards, and more
- PRE-MOISTENED WIPES: each wipe instantly removes dust, dirt, and stubborn smudges and fingerprints leaving a streak-free shine
- ANTI-STATIC: great for cleaning and wiping down your gaming gear and electronics leaving behind no visible residue
- COMPACT RESEALABLE PACKAGE: store your pack of Windex Gaming Wipes anywhere in your home for whenever a quick and easy wipedown is needed
Advertising does not replace reachability
Advertising tells the master server that your instance should be listed; it does not create an inbound route. If the forwarded port is blocked, the master server cannot verify the host and the listing may be rejected or removed. Treat advertising and port forwarding as separate requirements.
Review UPnP and bind-address settings
Use explicit forwarding when troubleshooting
One current setup guide recommends setting Upnp to false and creating the router rules manually. Automatic UPnP mappings can be stale, can target the wrong computer, or can disappear after a router restart. Disabling UPnP while you test gives you one known path to verify.
Leave the IP bind value at its default unless needed
That same guidance recommends leaving Ip as null unless the server must bind to a specific local address. A forced address that no longer belongs to the machine can make the process listen on the wrong interface. If you have a deliberate multi-interface configuration, use the address assigned to the interface that receives the forwarded traffic.
Create the router forwarding rules
Give the server computer a stable LAN address
The forwarding destination must remain the same. Reserve the server computer’s local address in the router’s DHCP settings, or configure a suitable static address on the machine. If the address changes, the router can continue forwarding 42420 to a device that is no longer hosting Vintage Story.
Enter both rules
- Open the router’s administration page and locate Port Forwarding, NAT, or Virtual Server.
- Create a rule for external port 42420 to internal port 42420 using TCP, targeting the server computer’s LAN address.
- Create a second rule with the same ports and destination using UDP.
- Save or apply the configuration, then restart the server process. Restart the router only if its interface requires it to activate NAT changes.
Some routers offer a combined “TCP/UDP” choice. That can represent both protocols, but two explicit rules are easier to audit when the server log reports that a port is closed.
The Tool Desk
Outbyte PC Repair FREERepair Windows errors before they cause bigger problemsFix Now →Outbyte Driver Updater FREEScan for outdated or missing drivers - takes under a minuteDriver Scan →Rank #3
- Ergonomic & Adjustable Design: Fight "text neck" and improve your posture. Designed for comfort, it offers an adjustable height (7.1in-8.5in) (1.4in adjustable range) and angle (5°-85°) Please note: cell phone stand is only 9 inches tall—the length of a standard pencil
- Without blocking subtitles Perfect for office desk Tiktok Face Time Zoom video—this is the ultimate kitchen desk essential for phones! Perfect viewing experience while reducing neck back strain, A must-have for gamers streamers desk, and anyone who values both style and support!
- Sleek & Stable Design fits Otterbox Case: Say goodbye to bent cables, tangles, and tip-overs! LISEN’s stylish adjustable desk phone holder features a built-in charging hole and smart cable management, keeping your phone secure and your workspace clutter-free cool gadgets for men
- ANTI-SLIP DESIGN free hands: The under 10.00 items easy gadgets back and the bottom of this kitchen essentials for women are fully covered by anti-skid silicone, which LISEN stand up desk decor can provide maximum protection device from any scratches and slides
- Your Perfect Viewing Companion:If your product arrives damaged or breaks within 365 days, reach out to LISEN for a quick and hassle-free solution. Struggling with assembly, like tightening the screw? We’ve got your back! Your experience matters to us. (Product including: phone Holder stand*1, screw*1, hexagon screwdriver*1, specification*1)
Allow the current executable through the firewall
Windows
The standalone server executable needs its own inbound firewall permission. A rule created for an earlier executable can stop matching if the application was renamed or replaced. In Windows Firewall, add or verify an allow rule for the executable that you launch now; the application may be displayed as “Vintage Story Standalone Server.” Permit the required network profiles you actually use and ensure the rule allows inbound traffic.
When the log says the port is not open even though the router contains both protocol rules, inspect the application rule before changing NAT settings. A forum troubleshooting case found that the old allow rule no longer applied after the server application name changed.
Linux with firewalld
Open both protocols in the active zone. The documented TCP example is:
sudo firewall-cmd --permanent --zone=public --add-port=42420/tcpAdd the matching UDP rule:
sudo firewall-cmd --permanent --zone=public --add-port=42420/udpReload firewalld after adding permanent rules:
sudo firewall-cmd --reloadIf your server uses a different firewalld zone, apply the rules to the zone attached to the network interface that receives internet traffic. Opening a port in an unused zone will not make the service reachable.
Linux with UFW
On systems managed with UFW, allow the same port and protocols in the active firewall policy:
Rank #4
- Easy Installation: Our gaming lights have been designed to enhance your entertainment experience. Simply position the led light bar next to your TV or game console to create a game room environment with ease. They come with USB power and a 60 inch cord for direct mounting and mobility
- Audio Syncing & Extensive Mode: The built-in high-sensitivity music sensor allows you to sync the TV led lights to your favorite music. Lights react and move to the beat of music, film and game audio, creating an incredible immersive sound and light experience – and all without the need for an additional hub. You can choose from 64+ patterns, including strobe, illusion, jump, energy, gradient, running, chasing, fluttering mode etc. Each mode can be applied to different scenes
- 64+ Chasing IC+RGB & W Effect: The independent control design of IC+RGB and white all-in-one multifunctional rgbw led bar lights monitor backlight allows you to easily switch the led lights for desk between IC+RGB and white to enjoy a variety of lighting effects, you can choose white lighting mode with high brightness for better illumination when working, etc. Choose IC+RGB lighting mode when you need to create an entertaining atmosphere for the light show, 16 million colours of Color changing rgb light bar let you dance to the beat and create a dynamic party atmosphere
- Dynamic and Dimmable Lights: 1%-full brightness free brightness adjustment gives you the flexibility to adjust dimmable led light bar for room decorations or a variety of occasions
- USB Powered: USB light bars for room can be powered by powernank, usb charger, TV, Monitor, laptop PC mainframe, making behind TV led lighting bar easy to install in any location.TV led lights are powered by the TV usb interface / PC mainframe, can be turned on/off synchronously with TV / PC
sudo ufw allow 42420/tcp
sudo ufw allow 42420/udpCheck the firewall status after changing it. The rules must exist on the machine running the server, not only on the router.
Check for carrier-grade NAT
Carrier-grade NAT (CGNAT) places your router behind another layer of address translation controlled by the ISP. In that arrangement, a correct local forwarding rule still cannot accept unsolicited internet connections because the ISP-controlled gateway has no rule directing traffic to your router.
Quick wins for a faster PC:
Clear out junk files and repair common Windows errorsFree Scan →Scan for outdated or missing drivers - takes under a minuteDriver Scan →Repair Windows errors before they cause bigger problemsFix Now →Recognize the symptom
Your router may show a WAN address that differs from the public address reported by an external IP-check service. Some routers also label the connection as private or shared. Either condition is a reason to ask the ISP whether the line uses CGNAT; the address ranges and labels vary by provider.
Choose a path around CGNAT
- Public address from the ISP: request an internet service that provides a publicly reachable address, if available in your region.
- VPN or tunnel: use a service that accepts inbound connections and carries them to the server, following that service’s setup requirements.
- Hosted server: move the dedicated server to a hosting provider with an internet-reachable address when you cannot change the home connection.
Do not spend hours recreating router rules when CGNAT is the blocking layer. Port forwarding can work only on a gateway that receives the inbound connection.
Make the client and server builds match
The client and dedicated server must use compatible builds. A documented failure example contrasts client version 1.20.4 with server version 1.20.5; update both sides to the same build before interpreting connection errors as a networking problem.
Best Value
- Compatible with Wide Screens - To ensure compatibility with the dual monitor mount, your each monitor must meet three conditions at the same time: First, computer screens size range: 13 to 32 inches. Second, screen weight range: 4.4 to 19.8 lbs. Third, the back of the monitor screen must have VESA mounting holes with a pitch of 75x75mm or 100x100mm.
- Regarding the compatibility with desks - Your desk must meet three conditions at the same time: First, desk material: Only wooden desks are recommended, plastic or glass desks cannot be used. Second, desk thickness range: 0.59" - 3.54". Third, the bottom of the desk should not have any cross beams or panels, as this will interfere with installation. We recommend carefully checking that your desk and monitors meets all above conditions before purchasing.
- Dual C-Clamp Hold - Worried your dual monitors might wobble or slip? Our upgraded base uses a larger platform plus a dual C-clamp structure to lock the dual monitor arm firmly to your desk. Each arm safely keeps your screens steady while you type, click and game—no shaking, no sliding, just a clean and secure setup you can trust every day. It also provides Grommet Mounting installation choice, both options ensure stable and secure fixation for your 0.59" - 3.54" desk.
- Full-Motion Adjustment For Comfortable View - Pull the screen closer when you’re deep in a spreadsheet, push it back to watch videos, or rotate to portrait for coding — moving everything smoothly with just one hand. The monitor stand offers +85°/-50° tilt, ±90° swivel and 360° rotation. Raise your monitor up to 15.75″ to support a healthy sitting posture. Whether you’re working from home, gaming through the night, or switching between video calls and documents, getting the screens to your natural line of sight helps relieve neck, shoulder and back strain so you can stay focused longer with less fatigue.
- Keep Your Desk Organized: By lifting both screens off the desktop, this dual monitor stand opens up valuable space for your keyboard, notebook, docking station or a simple, clutter-free work area. Built-in cable management guides wires along the arms, keeping cords out of sight and out of the way. Enjoy a tidy, modern workstation that looks as good as it feels to use.
- Record the exact version shown by the client launcher.
- Check the version reported by the dedicated server at startup.
- Update the older installation, or roll both installations to the same supported build.
- Restart the server after updating and test the direct connection again.
A build mismatch can persist after all port rules are correct, so perform this check early rather than treating every failed join as a firewall issue.
Test direct IP access before relying on the browser
Use the public address and port
From a client outside the host’s local network, connect to the public IP and port 42420. Testing from another device on the same LAN can be misleading because some routers do not support hairpin NAT; an external network, such as a mobile connection, provides a more meaningful test.
Interpret the result
| Direct-IP result | What it indicates | Next action |
|---|---|---|
| Connection succeeds | Inbound routing and the server process are working. | Check AdvertiseServer, restart the server, and refresh the public list. |
| Connection times out | Traffic is being blocked or sent to the wrong destination. | Recheck TCP/UDP forwarding, the host firewall, LAN address, and CGNAT. |
| Host is reached but join is rejected | The network path works, but a server/client compatibility or configuration issue remains. | Match builds and review the server log for the specific rejection. |
Direct-IP testing also prevents a browser-list problem from hiding a routing problem. Fix reachability first; the public listing cannot be reliable until the master server can reach the host.
Read the master-server message literally
“Could not register to master server, port not opened”
This message means the master server could not verify an open inbound port. It does not prove that the router rule is wrong. The host firewall, a renamed executable, CGNAT, an incorrect LAN destination, or a protocol omission can produce the same result.
A practical log review
- Confirm the server is listening on the intended port, normally 42420.
- Confirm both TCP and UDP rules exist for version 1.20 and later.
- Confirm the router forwards to the server computer’s current LAN address.
- Confirm the current executable is allowed through the operating-system firewall.
- Confirm the WAN connection is not behind CGNAT.
- Confirm
"AdvertiseServer": trueand restart the server. - Repeat the direct public-IP test, then check the browser.
If the log still reports a closed port after these checks, isolate one layer at a time: temporarily verify the host firewall rule, inspect the router’s active rule table, and ask the ISP about inbound filtering or CGNAT. Avoid changing several layers simultaneously because that makes the successful change impossible to identify.
Recommended Free Tools
Choose the right fix for your network
| Situation | Most suitable approach | Trade-off |
|---|---|---|
| You control a home router and have a public IP | Manual forwarding of 42420 TCP and UDP, plus host-firewall rules | Requires router and computer administration; the LAN destination must stay stable. |
| You cannot access the router or the ISP uses CGNAT | VPN or tunnel with inbound support | Adds another service and configuration layer. |
| You need a reachable server without home-network changes | Hosting provider with a public address | Moves administration and recurring infrastructure costs to a provider. |
| Direct IP works but the browser is empty | Keep the network rules and fix advertising or registration | Changing ports will not solve a listing-only problem. |
Common mistakes and their corrections
- Only TCP was forwarded: add a UDP rule for 42420 on version 1.20 and later.
- Advertising was disabled: set
"AdvertiseServer": trueand restart. - The rule targets an old LAN address: reserve the host’s current address and update the destination.
- The firewall rule names an old executable: allow the executable you launch now, including after a rename.
- UPnP created an uncertain mapping: disable UPnP while testing and use explicit rules.
- A bind address is stale: leave
Ipasnullunless a specific interface is required. - CGNAT is mistaken for a router error: obtain a public address, use a tunnel, or host elsewhere.
- Client and server builds differ: update both to the same build, such as matching 1.20.4 or matching 1.20.5 rather than mixing them.
- The browser is treated as the only test: use a direct public-IP connection to distinguish listing from reachability.
A complete recovery sequence
Use this order when you want one repeatable procedure rather than isolated guesses:
- Stop the dedicated server and note the exact server build.
- Match the client to that build.
- Open
serverconfig.json; set"AdvertiseServer": true, keepIpatnullunless required, and disable UPnP while troubleshooting. - Start the server and verify it is using port 42420, unless you intentionally configured another port.
- Reserve the host computer’s LAN address in the router.
- Forward 42420 to that address on TCP and UDP.
- Allow the current standalone-server executable through the operating-system firewall, or open matching TCP and UDP rules on Linux.
- Check whether the router’s WAN address is publicly reachable rather than being supplied through CGNAT.
- From outside the LAN, connect directly to the public IP and port.
- If the direct connection works, restart or refresh the public browser and inspect the registration log for advertising errors. If it fails, return to the forwarding, firewall, and CGNAT checks instead of changing the browser settings.
This sequence ends with the public list because listing depends on a reachable service. It also leaves a clear failure boundary: a timeout points to the network path, while a successful direct join with no listing points to registration or advertising.
Quick Recap
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.
