# How to Join a Subnautica 2 Dedicated Server (/docs/subnautica-2/join-server)



import { Callout } from "fumadocs-ui/components/callout";
import { Steps, Step } from "fumadocs-ui/components/steps";

This is for **players joining** a hosted Subnautica 2 server. If you own the server, see [Dedicated Server Setup](/docs/subnautica-2/dedicated-server-setup).

<Callout type="info">
  The stock Steam/Epic game **cannot connect to a server by IP** — everyone who wants to join must use the free **Beacon launcher**. The host does not need to be online for you to play.
</Callout>

What you need [#what-you-need]

* **Subnautica 2** installed on your PC
* The free **Beacon launcher** (from the Beacon project releases page)
* The server's **IP and gameplay port** (the owner shares this from their panel)
* The **server password**, if the owner set one

Steps [#steps]

<Steps>
  <Step>
    Install the Beacon launcher [#install-the-beacon-launcher]

    Download and install the Beacon launcher from the Beacon project's releases page.
  </Step>

  <Step>
    Add the server [#add-the-server]

    Open Beacon, click **Add Server**, and enter `SERVER_IP:GAMEPLAY_PORT` (from the owner's panel). Use the **gameplay port** — not the query/RCON/HTTP ports.
  </Step>

  <Step>
    Pick a character [#pick-a-character]

    Select an existing character or create a new one.
  </Step>

  <Step>
    Connect [#connect]

    Click **Connect**. If the server has a password set, enter it when prompted. You'll drop into the server's persistent world.
  </Step>
</Steps>

Can't connect? [#cant-connect]

* Make sure you're using the **Beacon launcher**, not the stock game.
* Double-check the **IP and gameplay port** — only the gameplay (UDP) port needs to be reachable.
* If the server has a password, confirm you entered it correctly.
* If the server was just started or just had a setting changed, give it a minute (or ask the owner to confirm it's online).

See [Troubleshooting](/docs/subnautica-2/troubleshooting) for more.

Related [#related]

* [Dedicated Server Setup (owner side) →](/docs/subnautica-2/dedicated-server-setup)
* [Troubleshooting →](/docs/subnautica-2/troubleshooting)