GameSpy issues (Linux Server)

[dik23 10]

I have set up Linux dedi server at mine.

So far it seems to be doing fine but I have hit a problem.

I am running the server (linux) and client (xp) both on the same ip and it seems that when I start up the client and go to multiplayer it prevents the server from reporting it's existence. I don't even have to try and log in to a game, just viewing GameSpy does the trick

However, if I set the client to LAN on multiplayer, close it down, start the server, and then start the client it prevents this and the server is still visible to the outside world. I know this because it shows up on both the SWEC and HLSW websites.

So it seems GameSpy doesn't like two machines on the same ip using different ports ?

Is there any way round this without paying out for some more static ip addresses ? It's a little annoying since if I start the client and it's not set to LAN it takes the server off and occasionally I'd like to play on other servers without having to restart my server each time.

Edit : I have changed the ports on the server away from the standard so as not to clash, which is why I am confused

Edited February 6, 2010 by dik23

[dik23 10]

Should I report this as a bug ?

[Bob.Dob 0]

Can you provide us any info on your NAT/router configuration?

[dik23 10]

I have a Belkin N+ (F5D8235-4 v1000) with both SPI firewall and ICMP Ping blocking disabled. I have tried putting the Linux box in the DMZ but it makes no difference.

This is connected to a Thomson TG585 v7 which is bridged and used as a modem.

I am using OpenDNS if that makes any difference - I should really test using my ISPs DNS but don't see how it's going to make a difference seeing as I can leave the server running for as long as I like without issue. It's only when I view the GameSpy page from my XP machine (I don't even try and join any game) I have a problem.

There's no error logs written

Edited February 10, 2010 by dik23

[dik23 10]

Ok - on further testing when the server is reported as down I can get it to be reported again by unplugging the Belkin for 10s and re-booting it. Using the reset option in the Belkins webUI also works. Resetting the Thomson has no effect.

The Belkin carries all of the login details for the ISP, not the Thomson which is running as a "pure" modem.

I have a static IP and so the Belkin is set to Static with the IP, Subnet Mask and ISP Gateway the only options. So I presume I am resetting the connection with my ISP although I'm not sure that's relevant or if it's a problem with the Belkin.

The server will remain "unseen" forever (I have tested overnight) unless either the router is rebooted or the server stopped then started.

Edit : Changing OpenDNS for GoogleDNS or my IPs DNS makes no difference.

Edited February 10, 2010 by dik23

[dik23 10]

Right, I think this is case closed.

I have pulled my network to bits today and replaced the Belkin with an old Linksys that's running DD-WRT and acting as a repeater elsewhere in my home. All my problems disappeared. It's the Belkin.

Thanks Bob.Dob for making me think in a different direction.

Anyone want to buy a Belkin N+ F5D8235-4 v1 ? Very good price. I'm going to get a ASUS RT-N16

[PogMoThoin 10]

Belkin make some terrible rubbish, nothing but bother, reset themselves for no reason and just about last through warranty

[dik23 10]

Yeah, seems so. At the time it was getting good reviews, even recommended, and seemed like DD-WRT was going to be possible. Plus there didn't seem to be much competition in the Giga LAN, N router market. Now the RT-N16 is here with 128Mb RAM and a 530Mhz chip that takes no effort to install DD-WRT it's no contest !

Ho-hum, sure someone will have this Belkin off me, now if I could only find that box....

[Bob.Dob 0]

Good to hear dik! Glad you got it working. I had a feeling it would be "network" related.