Me and my roommate can’t connect to same gaming server

Title: Troubleshooting Multiplayer Connectivity Issues: When You and Your Roommate Can’t Join the Same Gaming Server

Are you and your roommate experiencing difficulties connecting to the same online game servers despite both being on a stable network? This is a common issue that can be caused by a variety of factors, and understanding the underlying causes can help you resolve the problem efficiently. In this article, we’ll explore the potential reasons behind such connectivity issues and provide step-by-step solutions to get you both gaming together smoothly.

Understanding the Issue

Many gamers encounter situations where, despite both being connected to the internet via Ethernet cables and having low latency (ping rates of 40-50 ms), they are unable to join the same multiplayer server. Sometimes, certain games will boot players from the server or prevent them from connecting altogether. Interestingly, in some cases, switching to alternative games or using different internet sources—such as a mobile hotspot—can resolve the issue temporarily.

Potential Causes

1. Network Configuration and NAT Settings
   Network Address Translation (NAT) settings can influence multiplayer connectivity. Strict NAT types can prevent proper communication between gaming clients and servers, leading to disconnects or inability to join the same lobby.

2. Firewall or Router Settings
   Firewalls, whether on your computer or router, may block specific ports used by certain games. Even if one game works, others might require open ports that are blocked, causing connection issues.

3. Different Game Server Regions
   If your game automatically connects to different server regions based on your location or network preferences, you may end up on different servers, preventing simultaneous play.

4. Network Restrictions or Quality of Service (QoS) Settings
   Some routers have QoS settings that prioritize or limit bandwidth for specific devices or applications, which could interfere with game data transmission.

5. ISP or Network-Level Blocks
   Occasionally, Internet Service Providers block or throttle certain traffic, affecting multiplayer connectivity.

Steps to Troubleshoot and Resolve

1. Verify NAT Type and Adjust Router Settings
2. Access your router’s admin panel (usually via a web browser).
3. Check the NAT type; aim for ‘Open’ or ‘Moderate’ if possible.
4. Enable UPnP (Universal Plug and Play) or manually forward required ports for your games.

5. Consult your game’s support documentation for specific port requirements.

6. Check Firewall and Security Software

7. Ensure your computer