Multiplayer and Servers

Basics

Meteor 2 uses a client/server system meaning that one machine (the server) runs the game whereas the other players (clients) are basically kept in sync.

In order for a server to operate the clients must be able to connect via a clear network route, this can often require a little setting up because of home routers/shared gateways etc.

Configuration

Setting up an Internet Server Behind a Router

Decide which machine will be the game server and note its IP address or machine name.
Configure the router so that all traffic on port 5920 (Meteor 2 default port) is sent directly to the computer's IP address or name.

Firewalls

Firewalls are the number one problem with Meteor 2 multiplayer connectivity, obviously firewalls are also essential (more so if you are not using a router). I never recommend to anybody to disable their firewall in order the play Meteor 2.

Some home users with routers don't use firewalls. Obviously users with modem (non router) connections tend to rely on firewalls as their computers are connected directly to the Internet.

Setting up a Software Firewall on a Server

In order to run a public Meteor 2 server behind a firewall you will need to open port 5920, of course there are security implications so think carefully about this.

Windows Firewall

I have not tested Meteor 2 using Windows firewall, please send me your findings!

Networking Principles and ENet

ENet is a networking library which was developed and made freely available by Lee Salzman. ENet provides stable & reliable UDP based network code for use in multiplayer games or any other networked applications.

The table below outlines the basic pros and cons for the TCP and UDP protocols.

TCP (Transmission Control Protocol)	UDP (User Datagram Protocol)
TCP packets will always arrive. TCP packets will arrive in the order which they were sent. TCP is very slow and is not suitable for non-LAN play.	UDP packets may not arrive at all. UDP packets could arrive in any order. UDP is very fast and is suitable for both LAN and Internet networks.

ENet Provides:

Reliable UDP
- Packets always arrive.
- Packets arrive in the order which they were sent.
High performance on both small and large packets.
A simple "straight C" based interface for game developers making it suitable for both C and C++ applications.

Link to ENet web site