How to Fix FiveM Server Not Showing on the Server List

If you're experiencing the frustrating issue of your FiveM server not showing on the server list, you're not alone. This is a common problem for many server administrators, and fortunately, it can often be resolved with some targeted troubleshooting. In this guide, we will delve into effective methods to overcome this issue, from checking your server configuration to verifying network settings.

Check Your Server Configuration

Before diving into complex solutions, it’s crucial to start with your server configuration. A misconfiguration in your server.cfg file can prevent your server from appearing in the list.

Steps to Verify Your Configuration

1. Locate the server.cfg file: This file is usually found in the server's root directory. Open it using a text editor (like Notepad++ or VS Code).
2. Check Server Name: Ensure that you have a proper server name set up:

   sv_hostname "Your Server Name Here"
   

3. Verify Tags: Make sure you have appropriate tags; they help categorize your server:

   sv_tags "roleplay, custom, pvp"
   

4. Set up sv_master1: This line helps your server communicate on the master server list:

   sv_master1 "https://servers.fivem.net/"
   

5. Port Configuration: Ensure the port is set correctly and open (default is 30120). Check if you have:

   endpoint_add_tcp "0.0.0.0:30120"
   endpoint_add_udp "0.0.0.0:30120"
   

Ensure the Server is Running

Sometimes, the server may simply not be running. Ensure that your server is up and operational:

• Use terminal or command prompt to navigate to your server directory.
• Run the command to start your server:

  run.cmd +exec server.cfg
  

• Monitor the console for any errors that may arise during startup.

Firewall and Port Forwarding

If your server configuration is correct, but it’s still not appearing in the server list, the issue might be associated with your network settings.

Configuring Your Firewall

1. Open Windows Defender Firewall: Search for it in your Windows settings.
2. Allow an App or Feature: Add your FiveM server executable to the allowed apps.
3. Inbound Rules: Ensure there are rules set up to allow traffic through the relevant ports (especially TCP and UDP on 30120).

Port Forwarding Steps

To ensure outside connections can reach your server:

1. Access Your Router Settings: Typically via 192.168.1.1 or 192.168.0.1 in your web browser.
2. Locate Port Forwarding Settings: This is usually found under advanced settings.
3. Add a New Rule: Forward TCP and UDP for port 30120 to your local server IP.
4. Save Settings and Restart Router: Restart your router to apply changes.

DNS Settings and Connectivity Issues

Sometimes, connectivity issues can arise due to DNS settings. This can particularly affect local networks.

Adjusting DNS Settings

1. Open your Network and Internet Settings.
2. Navigate to the Change Adapter Options section.
3. Right-click your active network and select Properties.
4. Highlight Internet Protocol Version 4 (TCP/IPv4) and click Properties.
5. Select Use the following DNS server addresses and enter:
   • Preferred: 8.8.8.8
   • Alternate: 8.8.4.4
6. Restart your computer and test your connection again.

Validate Resource Start Order

If you're using frameworks like ESX or QBCore, the order of resource loading in your fxmanifest.lua can affect server visibility.

Check Your Resource Manifest

1. Open the fxmanifest.lua located inside your resource folder.
2. Ensure that all dependencies are listed correctly. Example:

   dependencies { 'es_extended', 'essentialmode' }
   

3. If your resource is dependent on other resources, ensure that they start before it:

   start essentialmode
   start es_extended
   start your_resource_name
   

Test Your Server with Direct Connect

If after performing all the above steps, your server still isn’t showing, try connecting directly using your IP.

1. In the FiveM client, press F8 to open the console.
2. Type:

   connect <Your_IP>:30120
   

3. If you connect successfully, this indicates that your server is operational; it just might not be listed publicly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why is my FiveM server not showing up in the server list?

The most common reasons include incorrect server configuration, firewall settings, or issues with your router's port forwarding.

What is the default port for FiveM servers?

The default port for FiveM servers is 30120. Ensure this port is open and correctly configured in your firewall and router settings.

Can server resources affect visibility?

Yes, the order of resources in your fxmanifest.lua can affect the startup process and subsequently the visibility of your server.

How can I check if my server is running correctly?

You can check the console output when starting your server for errors and ensure you can connect via direct IP to verify its status.

Do I need to restart my router for port changes to take effect?

Yes, most routers need a restart after applying new port forwarding settings to ensure changes are applied.