Fix 'cannot connect' on a Hytale server
When nobody can connect, work through the list from simplest to hardest. Details may change with game updates, so confirm port and protocol in the official Hytale server documentation.
1. Is the server running?
Open the Console tab and check that the server finished starting and shows no errors. If it is stopped or crashed, start it and read the latest messages.
2. Is it authorised?
Community guides say the server needs to be authorised with a Hytale account through a console login step. If startup messages mention authentication, follow the instructions printed there.
3. Right address and port
- Check the IP or domain for typos.
- Include the port if it is not the default. Sources report the default as 5520.
4. Right protocol
Sources report that Hytale uses QUIC over UDP rather than TCP. Opening only a TCP port will not work. Make sure UDP is allowed.
5. Version match
If the game updated but the server did not, or the other way round, joining may fail. Update whichever is behind.
6. Whitelist and bans
If a whitelist is on, the player must be on it. Check you have not banned them by accident.
7. Firewall and router (self-hosted)
- Allow the game port in your operating system firewall.
- Forward the UDP port on your router to the server machine.
- Test from outside your home network, not from the same network.
8. Player-side network
Some school, work or public networks block UDP. Try another network or a mobile hotspot to test.
9. Server full or restarting
Wait a few minutes and retry.
On a hosted server
On a Tabi Cloud server, port setup is handled for you, so focus on steps 1 to 6 and 8. If it still fails, open a ticket in our Discord with the exact error message, the server address and your game version.
Collect useful details
Screenshots of the error, the console output and the time of the problem all help us find the cause fast.