Project Zomboid Won't Connect – Fix UDP 16261 Timeout

Project Zomboid Won't Connect – Fix UDP 16261 Timeout

Zomboid connection failed / timeout: UDP 16261/16262, public IP, Steam vs direct connect, server still starting.

Updated 27.10.2026 Game servers

Quick answer: Zomboid timeouts are almost always UDP 16261/16262 or the server is still loading.

Firewall

Products & ordering: Order game server · NexoraHost · nexorahost.com (Frankfurt · 1 Tbit/s DDoS · 99.9% uptime)

Frequently asked questions (FAQ)

Timeout even though it runs?

UDP 16261+16262 in UFW and host firewall. Try direct IP, not only Steam list. Server often needs 1–2 minutes after start.

LAN works, internet does not?

Public IPv4, no NAT without forward. Panel shows the connect IP.

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