Updated November 2024: Stop these error messages and fix common problems with this tool. Get it now at this link
A “Connection Failed” error can appear in Stardew Valley. error due to antivirus/firewall applications interfering. In addition, a corrupt or missing Visual C++ installation can also cause this error.
The user (host or joiner) encountered an error while trying to join a multiplayer game. In some cases, the affected user encounters the problem with only one player joining/playing with other players. The bug reportedly occurs on PC, Xbox, and Mac.
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Why isn’t Stardew Valley connecting?
The problem can be caused by many factors, such as antivirus software and internet connectivity. Before proceeding with the following troubleshooting methods, you can try rebooting your system and network devices. You can also use an invitation code to join the game.
Sometimes antivirus programs can interfere with your game, which can cause Stardew Valley to be unable to connect to multiplayer. If you have third-party antivirus software installed, you can try temporarily removing it. Temporarily disabling the Windows Defender firewall may also help you solve the problem.
How to repair the “Connection failed” error in Stardew Valley
This tool is highly recommended to help you fix your error. Plus, this tool offers protection against file loss, malware, and hardware failures, and optimizes your device for maximum performance. If you already have a problem with your computer, this software can help you fix it and prevent other problems from recurring:
Updated: November 2024
Restart the game or system
It is always recommended that you perform a soft restart of the game and client if you are having problems starting the game or connecting to the server.
You can also reboot your Windows computer/laptop to fix temporary errors in the software, etc. If the game is already running in the Steam client, close/exit the game. Close the Steam client completely.
To reboot your system, click Start -> Press Power -> Select Reboot. Wait for your computer to reboot automatically. Now try running the client and the game to check the problem.
Turn off antivirus software or firewall
It looks like the installed antivirus or firewall software is conflicting somewhere, and one of them is preventing your game or client from working properly.
More often than not, antivirus software or firewalls will prevent game servers from connecting to the network, even if you have an active Internet connection. In this case, you can either disable the application or create a bypass rule and your game will no longer be affected by the antivirus program or firewall.
However, keep in mind that disabling the antivirus or firewall exposes your computer to the risk of easily getting additional threats or security holes.
- Open Task Manager (Ctrl+Shift+Esc) -> Go to Processes and select the Steam game or service, then click End Task to forcibly close it.
- Now open an antivirus program (Defender or a third-party program) and turn off real-time protection, web filtering, quick/full scanning, etc.
- Also, click Start -> Firewall Type and select Firewall and Network Protection.
- Click Domain Network -> Disable Windows Defender Firewall.
- Then go back and click Private network -> Disable Firewall.
- The same procedure applies to the public network.
If you don’t want to disable the antivirus or firewall on your computer, try adding an exception to the antivirus or firewall to allow the game/pairing without problems.
Join the game through the Steam launcher
Sometimes players are unable to join the game directly through the game interface due to an error. If this is your problem and you don’t know what to do, follow these steps.
- If the game is already running, quit the game first.
- In the Steam client, go to the friends list.
- Now find one of your friends who is playing Stardew Valley and click on it.
- Click Join Game -> Try to start the game to check the problem.
Disabling the VPN client
VPN stands for “virtual private network.” This service essentially gives you an anonymous identity that allows you to access the Internet without revealing your real IP address or even your network connection. A VPN creates a mask or layer on top of your actual Internet Protocol (IP) that is virtually untraceable, and users can access any sites or content that cannot be accessed because of server or regional restrictions.
Regardless of which VPN service you’re using on your computer, if you’re having trouble connecting to the Stardew Valley server, try temporarily disabling the service. Then reboot your computer and try running the game again.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Why does Stardew Valley show a “Connection Failed” message?
Stardew Valley may display a "Connection Failed" error. error due to antivirus/firewall applications interfering. If you are trying to use your local network, try to turn off your system firewall and use your local network IP address (not the one that appears on the Internet) in the required IP address.
How do I fix Stardew Valley connection failure?
- Restart the game or system.
- Switch from WiFi to LAN (wireless connection to wired connection).
- Disable any anti-virus programs or firewalls.
- Disable any VPN clients.
- Try joining the game through the Steam launcher.
- Try a new Internet connection.
- Check the power of the Stardew Valley game server.
Why can’t my friend join my Stardew Valley game?
This can happen if you are not running the game via Steam or GOG (i.e. if you are using the offline version of the game). To resolve this issue, make sure you run the game from Steam or GOG.
How do I update my Stardew Valley account?
As with other consoles, go to where the Stardew Valley icon appears on your home menu and try launching it. From there, you'll be prompted to update Stardew Valley.