# How to join an Arma 3 server

> Join an Arma 3 server from the Launcher, the in-game server browser or Direct Connect, load the same mods as the server, and fix it when it won't connect.

By the Wilderack Crew. Last reviewed 2026-11-14. First published 2026-11-13. Topic: How to connect.

_Wilderack is not affiliated with Bohemia Interactive. Arma 3's server license is for personal use, so Arma 3 servers open on Wilderack only once Bohemia gives us its written OK._

_Arma 3 is a trademark of Bohemia Interactive a.s. Wilderack is not affiliated with or endorsed by Bohemia Interactive a.s._

Players join an Arma 3 server from the Arma 3 Launcher, from the server browser in the game, or with Direct Connect and the server's address. Every player needs the same mods as the server, loaded before they join.

> [!NOTE]
> Arma 3 servers can't be ordered on Wilderack yet. We open Arma 3 once Bohemia Interactive gives us its OK. These steps work for any Arma 3 server.

## Before you join

- **Know your server's name.** The browsers show the server name you set in **Settings**.
- **Have the address and port** if you'll use Direct Connect. They're on the address card on **Overview**, in two boxes, like `ridgeline.tosk.gg` and `24302`.
- **Load the same mods** as the server, in the Launcher. See [Mods](https://wilderack.com/wiki/arma-3/mods/).
- **Have the password** if the server has one.

## Join from the Launcher

1. Open the Arma 3 Launcher and choose **Servers**.
2. Search for your server's name.
3. Pick it. The Launcher shows which mods the server runs.
4. Load the same mods, then press **Join**.

The Launcher is the easiest way for a modded group, since it shows what's missing before the game starts.

## Join from the in-game browser

1. Start Arma 3 with your mods loaded.
2. Choose **Multiplayer**, then **Server Browser**.
3. Search for your server's name. Clear any filters if it doesn't show.
4. Pick it and join.

## Join with Direct Connect

1. Choose **Multiplayer**, then **Server Browser**.
2. Press **Direct Connect** at the bottom.
3. Type the address and the game port from your address card.
4. Connect, and type the password if there is one.

Use the port on your address card, not Arma 3's usual 2302. Your server has its own.

## Share a mod list with your group

In the Launcher's **Mods** tab, export your mod list as a preset. Players import it to load the exact same set in one step. Send it with your server's name and password.

## Can't connect?

- **The server isn't listed.** Check it's running in **Console**, then clear the browser's filters.
- **"Bad version, server rejected connection."** Your game and the server are on different versions. Update the game, then stop the server and start it again so it updates too.
- **Kicked for signatures or missing files.** Your mods don't match the server's. Load the server's exact mods and versions.
- **Stuck on "Waiting for host".** The server has no mission running. Log in as admin and pick one with `#missions`, or check the missions list in `server.cfg`.

[Common errors](https://wilderack.com/wiki/arma-3/common-errors/) covers each of these in more depth.

## Questions and answers

### How do I join an Arma 3 server by IP?

In game, open Multiplayer, then Server Browser, and press Direct Connect at the bottom. Type the server's address and its game port, then connect. Use the port from your address card, not 2302.

### Why can't I see my Arma 3 server in the browser?

Check the server is running and give it a minute after it starts. Then clear the browser's filters, since a filter for version, mods or ping often hides it. Search for its exact name.

### Do players need the server's mods to join?

Yes, for every mod the server runs with -mod. Players load the same mods in the Arma 3 Launcher before joining. Server-only mods don't need to be on their side.

## Sources

- [Arma 3: Dedicated Server](https://community.bistudio.com/wiki/Arma_3:_Dedicated_Server), Bohemia Interactive Community Wiki
- [Arma 3: Startup Parameters](https://community.bistudio.com/wiki/Arma_3:_Startup_Parameters), Bohemia Interactive Community Wiki

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