Virtual Skipper 5 (VSK5) multiplayer races can be hosted in several ways, but using Radmin VPN offers a streamlined and efficient solution for organizing larger fleet races while bypassing the traditional complexities of online hosting.
By utilizing Radmin VPN, you gain the ability to host races through a virtual LAN (VLAN), eliminate the need for router configuration, host when using a WiFi network and allow seamless custom boat skin transfers without locators files. Moreover, a hybrid setup involving both the Nadeo network and Radmin VPN opens the door to even more flexibility, enabling players to join from either network.
This setup also provides a future-proof solution, especially as the Nadeo network may eventually shut down due to its aging infrastructure.
Key Benefits of Using Radmin VPN for VSK5 Multiplayer:
- No Port Forwarding Required: Radmin VPN simplifies the process by automatically managing all the network connections, bypassing the need for public IP addresses and router configurations.
- Supports Larger Fleet Races: By utilizing a hybrid setup invloving both the default Nadeo network and Radmin VPN simultaneously, you can accommodate larger fleets than the traditional Nadeo network allows. This is especially useful for hosting large-scale regattas or competitive races.
- Instant Skin Upload/Download: With Radmin VPN, players can instantly upload and download custom boat skins. There’s no need for caching or locators files, meaning all players in the race will see each other’s custom skins in real-time.
- Hybrid Nadeo + Radmin VPN Network Setup: Using both the Nadeo network and Radmin VPN in tandem allows players to connect from either network. This hybrid setup maximizes the number of participants and ensures connectivity redundancy:
- Nadeo Network: Players who prefer the traditional online hosting method or aren’t familiar with Radmin VPN can still join.
- Radmin VPN Network: Those on the Radmin VPN VLAN can connect without needing any port forwarding or firewall adjustments.
- If the Nadeo network goes down, as it is expected to one day (due to the network being operational for over 15 years without proper support), the LAN option using Radmin VPN will be the only way to host multiplayer races reliably.
- Future-Proofing Multiplayer Races: With the aging Nadeo online infrastructure and its potential future shutdown, VLAN setups like Radmin VPN will be the primary method to continue multiplayer racing in VSK5. Radmin VPN’s LAN support ensures that races can still be hosted without relying on Nadeo’s services.
- Increased Stability: Radmin VPN creates a virtual LAN environment, often providing smoother, more stable connections, particularly in larger fleet races, as it minimizes latency and lag.
Step 1: Install Radmin VPN
- Download Radmin VPN:
- Head to the official Radmin VPN website and download the software.
- Follow the installation prompts and launch Radmin VPN.
Step 2: Create or Join a Radmin VPN Network
You have two options for setting up the Radmin VPN network: either create your own network or join an existing one. This will function like a virtual LAN for all players.
You can join the main Radmin network for Vsk5,...
Radmin gaming network name: Virtual Skipper 5
NO PASSWORD
Option 1: Create a New Radmin VPN Network (Host)
- In the Radmin VPN window, click Create Network.
- Enter a network name and a password, and share these with your friends or race participants.
- Example: VSK5-FleetRace with a password like sailfast2024.
- Click Create, and your new network will appear in the Radmin VPN window.
Option 2: Join an Existing Radmin VPN Network (Player)
- To join a race hosted via Radmin VPN, click Join Network in the Radmin VPN window.
- Enter the network name and password provided by the host.
- Click Join, and you will be connected to the same VLAN.
Step 3: Host a Game in Virtual Skipper 5 Using LAN
Once everyone is connected via Radmin VPN, hosting a game on the LAN (Local Area Network) is straightforward.
For the Host (Creating a LAN Game)
- Launch Virtual Skipper 5.
- Navigate to Multiplayer > LAN.
- Click Create Game or Host to start a race.
- Set your race parameters (e.g., track, weather, fleet size), and launch the game.
- The hosted race will appear in the LAN lobby for others to join.
For Players (Joining a LAN Game)
- Launch Virtual Skipper 5.
- Go to Multiplayer > LAN.
- The race hosted by the host will appear in the lobby.
- Select the race and click Join to participate.
Step 4: Hybrid Setup with Nadeo and Radmin VPN
If you want to accommodate both Radmin VPN players and Nadeo network players, follow these steps:
- Host the Race via Radmin LAN:
- Host the race as detailed above, using the LAN option in Virtual Skipper 5. This will allow those connected to your Radmin VPN network to join easily.
- Enable Players to Join via the Nadeo Network:
- Keep the Nadeo network running in parallel for those who prefer the traditional online method. This way, players on the Nadeo network can still see and join the game hosted by the Radmin VPN host.
- Seamless Integration:
- Both Nadeo and Radmin VPN players can join the same race without needing to change the in-game hosting method. The Radmin VPN players will connect through the LAN option, while Nadeo network players will connect via the traditional online route.
- Fail-Safe for Nadeo Crashes:
- If the Nadeo network crashes (which has been known to happen) or shuts down in the future, you can simply instruct all players to switch over to Radmin VPN and join the game via the LAN option. This ensures your race continues without interruptions.
Step 5: Enjoy Larger Fleet Races with Seamless Skin Uploads
- Larger Fleets: The hybrid setup combined with Radmin VPN allows for larger fleet races than what the Nadeo network traditionally supports. With fewer network restrictions, more players can join, leading to more dynamic and competitive races.
- Instant Skin Sharing: All players will automatically see each other’s custom skins without needing caching or locator (.lob) files. This enhances the immersive experience as you race against fully customized fleets.
- Stable Connections: With Radmin VPN’s virtual LAN structure, connections are typically more stable, especially for larger groups. Latency is reduced, making races smoother and more enjoyable. Joining or hosting regattas can easily be done when using WiFi.
Conclusion: Future-Proof Your Races with Radmin VPN
As the Nadeo network ages and its potential shutdown looms, Radmin VPN offers a robust alternative for hosting Virtual Skipper 5 multiplayer races. With the added advantages of larger fleet sizes, instant skin sharing, and the ability to host races without complex router setups, it’s a future-proof solution for ensuring that VSK5 multiplayer continues to thrive. Whether you're using a hybrid approach or fully transitioning to Radmin VPN, you can keep the racing community alive and well for years to come.
Traditional Online Hosting of Virtual Skipper 5 (VSK5)
Setting up a router to host a Virtual Skipper 5 (VSK5) P2P server involves several steps, including configuring port forwarding, setting up static IP addresses, and ensuring your firewall is open to allow connections. Here's a clean, step-by-step guide for a smooth setup:
Step 1: Access Your Router's Admin Page
Find your router’s IP address:
- On Windows:
- Press Windows + R, type cmd, and press Enter.
- In the command prompt, type ipconfig and press Enter.
- Look for "Default Gateway." The number next to it (e.g., 192.168.1.1 or 192.168.0.1) is your router’s IP address.
- On macOS: (Vsk5 can be run on a Mac using Paralells or a similar application)
- Open System Preferences > Network.
- Select your active connection (Wi-Fi or Ethernet), click Advanced, and go to the TCP/IP tab.
- The Router entry shows your router’s IP address.
Enter the router’s IP address in your web browser:
- Open a web browser and type your router’s IP address in the address bar (e.g., http://192.168.1.1).
Step 2: Log in to Your Router
- You will be prompted for a username and password. This can often be found on your router or provided by your ISP.
- Common defaults are:
- Username: admin
- Password: admin or password
- If unsure, check your router’s label or consult your ISP.
Step 3: Set a Static IP for Your Computer (Optional but Recommended)
Assigning a static IP ensures your port forwarding settings remain consistent.
- Windows:
- Go to Control Panel > Network and Sharing Center > Change Adapter Settings.
- Right-click your active connection (Wi-Fi or Ethernet), then select Properties.
- Select Internet Protocol Version 4 (TCP/IPv4), then click Properties.
- Choose Use the following IP address, and enter a static IP (e.g., 192.168.1.50), along with the Subnet Mask (usually 255.255.255.0) and Default Gateway (your router’s IP).
- macOS:
- Go to System Preferences > Network.
- Select your active connection, click Advanced, and go to the TCP/IP tab.
- From the Configure IPv4 dropdown, select Manually and enter a static IP, Subnet Mask, and Router IP.
Step 4: Set Up Port Forwarding on the Router
To host a Virtual Skipper 5 P2P game, forward the necessary ports to your computer.
- Log into your router’s admin page.
- Navigate to the Port Forwarding section (usually found under Advanced Settings, NAT, or Firewall).
- Create a new port forwarding rule:
- TCP Port: 2350
- UDP Port: 2350
- IP Address: Enter your computer's static IP (e.g., 192.168.1.50).
- Port Range: 2350 - 2350
- Protocol: Set to Both (TCP and UDP).
- Ensure the rule is Enabled.
Save the settings and restart your router.
Step 5: Configure Network Settings in Virtual Skipper 5
- Launch Virtual Skipper 5.
- Go to Options > Network.
- Choose ADSL/Cable for connection type.
- Enter your public IP address (you can find this by searching "What’s my IP" in your browser).
- Set the port to 2350.
- Enable P2P Hosting if there’s an option.
Step 6: Configure Your Firewall (if necessary)
- Windows Firewall:
- Go to Control Panel > Windows Defender Firewall > Allow an app through Windows Defender Firewall.
- Check if Virtual Skipper 5 is listed. If not, click Allow another app and browse to the game’s folder to add it.
- Ensure both Private and Public networks are checked.
- Additionally, allow port 2350 through the firewall (both inbound and outbound).
- Third-Party Firewalls:
- Follow similar steps to allow Virtual Skipper 5 and port 2350 through the firewall settings.
Step 7: Test Your Connection
- Ask a friend to connect to your game.
- If there are issues, double-check your public IP, port forwarding settings, and firewall configurations.
Troubleshooting Tips
- Ensure your router's firewall isn't blocking the connection.
- Verify that your static IP and port forwarding are correctly configured.
- If needed, restart both your router and computer.
Carefully following these steps should help you successfully host a Virtual Skipper 5 P2P server.
