Networking

Networking

Checklist:

• Port in serverPort open on firewall/NAT.
• Logs show Tugboat server started and loopback client connected.
• Clients use correct public IP/port to connect.

Port forwarding

• Forward serverPort (default 38465) on your router to the server's local IP. Forward TCP and UDP.
• Allow the same port through your OS firewall.
• Verify from outside your network using an online port check tool.

Guides:

• How to Forward Ports on Your Router (How‑To Geek)
• Router‑specific port forwarding guides (PortForward.com)

If you cannot forward ports (CGNAT/ISP restrictions), consider hosting on a VPS or having a friend host it for you.

Connects then disconnects after a short delay

• This is commonly an authentication handshake timeout (authTimeoutSeconds, default 15s), not a raw network failure.
• Check server logs for auth-specific messages and failure reasons.
• Confirm requireAuthentication, authProvider, and Steam game server login settings are configured correctly.
• If needed for slow environments, increase authTimeoutSeconds slightly and retest.