Enshrouded Co-op Won't Connect? Here's the Fix

When Enshrouded multiplayer fails — you can't join a friend, the server list is empty, or you get 'connection failed' — it's usually the wrong join method (co-op vs dedicated), a Steam friends/port issue, or a version mismatch. Fastest fix in 2026: have the host open their world to friends, join via the Steam friends list (not by IP), and make sure both are on the same game version.

Enshrouded co-op server — exact ports, config & save path

Game port (UDP)
15636
Query port (UDP)
15637
Config file
enshrouded_server.json (server base folder)
Save path
./savegame/ (server base folder)
Common cause of 'cannot join'
Only 15636 forwarded — the 15637 query port must also be open (UDP) or clients cannot connect/see the server

Last verified: September 2026

Error codes

Can't join friend / world not showing The client can't see or reach the host's shared world

Cause: Host hasn't opened the world to friends, or you're not Steam friends.

Fix:
  1. Host: open the game, load the world, and set it to allow friends to join (co-op is Steam-friends based).
  2. Both players must be Steam friends — add each other and restart Steam.
  3. Join through the Steam friends list > Join Game, not by searching a server.
  4. Confirm both are on the same Enshrouded version (opt out of any beta branch).
Connection failed / timeout The handshake times out before the world loads

Cause: Firewall/NAT blocking, or the dedicated server ports aren't forwarded.

Fix:
  1. Allow Enshrouded through Windows Firewall on Private and Public networks.
  2. For a dedicated server, forward UDP ports 15636 and 15637 on the router.
  3. Set router NAT to Open or enable UPnP.
  4. Use a wired connection and restart the router to refresh the NAT mapping.
Dedicated server not appearing Your self-hosted server doesn't show in the list

Cause: Server config (name/password/ports) is wrong or the server isn't fully started.

Fix:
  1. Check enshrouded_server.json for correct name, password and queryPort/gamePort.
  2. Wait for the console to print that the server is registered before joining.
  3. Add the server via Direct Connect using the host's public IP and game port.
  4. Match the server and client game versions after any update.

Fixes that work for most Enshrouded errors

  1. Host opens the world to friends; join via Steam friends list, not by search.
  2. Both players must be Steam friends and on the same game version.
  3. Allow Enshrouded through Windows Firewall (Private + Public).
  4. Forward UDP 15636/15637 for a dedicated server, or enable UPnP.
  5. Set NAT to Open and use a wired connection.
  6. Verify integrity of game files in Steam if the world won't load.

FAQ

Why can't I join my friend in Enshrouded?

Usually the host hasn't opened the world to friends or you're not Steam friends. Have the host load the world and allow friends, add each other on Steam, then use Join Game from the Steam friends list.

What ports does an Enshrouded dedicated server use?

UDP ports 15636 and 15637 by default. Forward both on your router (or enable UPnP) and match them to your enshrouded_server.json.

Does Enshrouded have crossplay?

Enshrouded co-op is Steam-based, so play is between Steam clients. Ensure both players own the game on Steam and are on the same version.

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