Firewall and Antivirus Checks
If you can ping it but can't join it, it's probably your firewall.
Windows Firewall loves to block LAN games on “Public” networks.
The symptoms
- You can see the server list but can’t join.
- You can’t host a local lobby.
- You can’t see other players in LAN browsers.
Quick fix
- Network Profile: Make sure your network is set to Private (if you trust the LAN) or manually allow the game.
- Settings > Network & Internet > Ethernet > Network profile type.
- Allow an app:
- Search “Allow an app through Windows Firewall”.
- Click Change settings.
- Find your game.
- Check both Private and Public boxes.
- Click OK.
Third-party Antivirus
If you use Norton, McAfee, Bitdefender, etc.:
- They often override Windows settings.
- Look for “Game Mode” or temporarily pause the firewall to test.
- Remember to turn it back on.