Fast checks
| Problem | Likely cause | Fix |
|---|---|---|
| New password does not work | Server was not restarted after editing | Stop and restart the dedicated server. |
| Old password still works | Wrong config file edited | Find the active config in the server install folder. |
| No one can join at all | Connection or port issue, not password | Check UDP 8050 and direct connect. |
| Only one friend fails | Typing, spaces, or saved password issue | Use a short test password and have them re-enter it. |
Password fix checklist
- Stop the Romestead server before editing the config.
- Make a backup copy of the current config file.
- Use a simple test password with letters and numbers only.
- Check JSON punctuation if the password is stored in
config.json. - Restart the server after saving the file.
- Ask one friend to test direct connect and type the password manually.
- If connection fails before password prompt, troubleshoot networking first.
Do not confuse password with connection failure
If players cannot reach the server at all, the password is probably not the first problem. A blocked firewall, wrong public IP, bad router rule, or changed local IP can look like a password issue because friends never reach the real join step.
Related Romestead server guides
Use config file location if edits do not apply, config.json explained for settings, port 8050 troubleshooting if players cannot reach the server, and multiplayer not working for the full join checklist.