# How to Connect to Your V Rising Server

Congratulations on purchasing your very own V Rising server from PingPlayers! Connecting to your game server for the first time can be a little daunting, especially if this is your first experience with game hosting. Don’t worry! We're here to guide you step-by-step to get you started on your vampire adventure.

Step 1: Gather the Necessary Information

Before you connect, you’ll want to have some key information handy. This includes:

- Server IP Address: This is the specific address that identifies your server.
- Port Number: The default port for V Rising is 4 characters long, for example: 9876.
- Server Name: If you configured your server with a custom name, remember it as it makes it easier to identify. It's also visible from the Basic Settings tab.

You can find these details in the PingPlayers server management panel under the server settings.

Step 2: Launch V Rising

1. Open Steam: Ensure you are logged into your Steam account.
2. Run V Rising: Click on the game's icon to start it.

Step 3: Connecting to Your Server

1. Navigate to the Main Menu: Once you’re in V Rising, you will land on the main screen.
2. Select 'Online Play ': This option is usually found on the main menu screen.
3. Click on 'PvE/PvP or Duo PvP': Select the mode you prefer and it will open up the game server list.
4. Use the 'Direct Connect' Option:
- Look for a text box that allows you to enter an IP address.
- Input your server’s IP address here, followed by a colon and the port number (e.g., `123.456.789.123:9876`).
5. Hit 'Connect': After entering the information, press the connect button. If everything is correct, you should be transferred over to your server!
6. Use the 'Game name' Option: Type or paste the server name on the top left corner and make sure the filters are correct to find the game. It'll take a few seconds to refresh the list and find your server.

Tips for Enjoying V Rising

- Gather Resources: As a newly revived vampire, one of your first tasks is to gather resources like wood, stone, and animal blood to craft tools and build your castle. Remember you can amplify the resource gains (or any other setting!) in your server if you're in for a faster or slower grind.

- Choose Your Bed Wisely: Place your respawn point strategically. You don’t want to spawn far from your base after you're vanquished!

- Explore: Take time to explore the vast open-world environment. Questing and exploring will yield materials and unlock upgrades.

- Join Friends: If you are playing with friends, ensure they have the server IP and instructions to join too! You can use voice chat or Discord to coordinate your gameplay.

Possible Connection Errors and Solutions

Here are some common issues you might encounter while connecting to your V Rising server, along with their potential solutions:

- Error: Server Not Found
- Solution: Double-check your IP address and port number. Ensure you’re entering it correctly with no typos or that you selected the appropriate filters, for example: "hide empty servers" enabled when your server is empty wouldn't let your server to show up.

- Error: Connection Timed Out
- Solution: This might occur if your server is offline. Go back to the PingPlayers control panel and make sure your server is running. Restart it if necessary. Autoboot option on the "My Server" dashboard can prevent it from ever being off.

- Error: You Do Not Have Access to This Server
- Solution: Ensure that the server is set to “Public” if you want others to join, or that you are using the right credentials if it’s “Private.”

Conclusion

Connecting to your V Rising server for the first time should be a breeze with these steps and tips. Remember, the key is to take your time and ensure everything is inputted correctly. Once you’re in, you can immerse yourself in the dark and thrilling world of V Rising. Enjoy your adventure as you build your vampire empire, and don't hesitate to reach out to our support team if you encounter any issues!

Happy gaming, and may your bloodlust guide you!