← Back to Knowledge Base
BUILD 42 GUIDE

Connecting to Your Server (Build 42)

Step-by-step guide to connect to your Project Zomboid Build 42 server

Connecting to Your Build 42 Server

Project Zomboid Build 42 introduces several changes to the multiplayer connection process. This guide will walk you through connecting to your Rivix-hosted Build 42 server, including the new authentication system and connection options.

Build 42 Connection Changes

  • Enhanced security features
  • New authentication system
  • Improved connection stability
  • Different server browser interface

Prerequisites

Project Zomboid Build 42

Ensure you have Project Zomboid Build 42 installed. You can opt into the beta by right-clicking Project Zomboid in your Steam library, selecting Properties, then Betas, and choosing the Build 42 beta branch.

Server Information

You'll need your server's IP address and port. This information can be found in your Rivix control panel under the "Server Details" section.

Account Credentials

If your server has password protection enabled, make sure you have the password ready.

Connection Methods

1Using the In-Game Server Browser

  1. 1

    Launch Project Zomboid Build 42

    Start the game and select "Join" from the main menu.

  2. 2

    Navigate to the Server Browser

    In Build 42, the server browser has been redesigned. Click on the "Internet" tab to view online servers.

    Note: Build 42 servers may not appear in the "Favorites" tab until you've added them. Use the "Internet" or "Recent" tabs first.

  3. 3

    Add Server to Favorites (Recommended)

    Click the "Add Server" button at the bottom of the screen.

    Enter your server details:

    • Server Name: Any name you want to identify your server
    • IP Address: Your server's IP address from the Rivix control panel
    • Port: Your server's port (default is 16261)
  4. 4

    Connect to Your Server

    Select your server from the list and click "Join". If prompted, enter your server password.

2Using Direct IP Connection

  1. 1

    Launch Project Zomboid Build 42

    Start the game and select "Join" from the main menu.

  2. 2

    Click "Direct Connection"

    In Build 42, this option is located at the bottom of the server browser screen.

  3. 3

    Enter Server Details

    Enter your server information:

    • IP Address: Your server's IP address
    • Port: Your server's port (default is 16261)
    • Server Password: If your server has a password

    Click "Connect" to join your server.

Build 42 Connection Troubleshooting

Server Not Visible: Build 42 servers may not appear in the public server list. Use the "Add Server" option to manually add your server.
Version Mismatch: Ensure both your client and server are running the same Build 42 version. Check your server's version in the Rivix control panel.
Mod Issues: If your server has mods, make sure you have the same mods installed on your client. Build 42 has stricter mod version checking.
Connection Timeout: Build 42 has a longer initial connection time. Be patient during the first connection attempt.
Authentication Failure: Build 42 uses a new authentication system. Make sure your Steam account is properly connected and online.

Inviting Friends to Your Server

Build 42 introduces new ways to invite friends directly to your server:

Steam Friends Invite

  1. Connect to your server
  2. Press Escape to open the menu
  3. Select Invite Friends
  4. Choose friends from your Steam list

Sharing Server Details

Share these details with your friends:

  • Server IP and Port
  • Server Password (if applicable)
  • Required Mods List (if applicable)

Related Articles