Connection Timed Out or Could Not Retrieve Server Info
Tags: connection, timeout, troubleshooting, server
These errors appear when the client cannot complete the handshake with the server. Use this checklist to isolate ports, firewall, or server state issues.
Match the error to the cause
| Error | Likely cause |
|---|
| Could not retrieve server information | Query port blocked or server not fully initialized. |
| Connection timed out | Game port blocked, routing issues, or server offline. |
Fix steps
- Confirm the server is running and the world finished loading.
- Verify IP and port (default 26900) and try direct connect.
- Open 26900-26903 UDP/TCP. For crossplay, open 26900-26905.
- Disable VPNs or strict firewall rules and retry.
- Restart the server and router to clear stale NAT state.
When only some players fail
- Check player routing by testing from a mobile hotspot.
- Ask affected players to try another network or disable Wi-Fi extenders.
- Consider CGNAT or DS-Lite if self-hosting from home.
Check logs
Windows: %APPDATA%\7DaysToDie\output_log.txt
Linux: ~/.local/share/7DaysToDie/output_log.txt
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