> ## Documentation Index
> Fetch the complete documentation index at: https://help.freakhosting.com/llms.txt
> Use this file to discover all available pages before exploring further.

# Squad Server Not Showing in the Server Browser: Fixes

> Squad server not showing in the server browser? Set Advertise Server to true on Startup, wait for the map to load, then search for your exact server name.

If your Squad server isn't showing in the server browser, first check that **Advertise Server** on **Startup** is set to `true` (lower case) and restart. Then make sure the server has fully started: the console shows `Bringing World … up for play` once the map has loaded. Finally, search the Squad server browser for your exact **Server Name** rather than scrolling the list.

## Quick checks

| Check | Where | Fix |
| - | - | - |
| Listing is on | **Startup** > **Advertise Server** | Type `true`, restart |
| Server has finished starting | **Console** | Wait for `Bringing World … up for play` |
| Right name | **Startup** > **Server Name** | Search for this exact name |
| Server is running | Panel status | [Start it](https://help.freakhosting.com/portals/game-panel/how-to-start-stop-and-restart-your-game-server.md); if it won't start, see [not starting](https://help.freakhosting.com/games/squad/squad-server-not-starting.md) |
| Ports unchanged | **Startup** (**Query Port**, **Beacon Port**) | These are read-only; don't change ports in config files |

## How to make your Squad server show in the browser

**1. Turn on Advertise Server**

Open **Startup** and check **Advertise Server**. It must say `true`, in lower case. `false` keeps the server off the public list.

**2. Restart the server**

[Restart the server](https://help.freakhosting.com/portals/game-panel/how-to-start-stop-and-restart-your-game-server.md) so the panel writes the setting into `Server.cfg`.

**3. Wait for the map to load**

Watch the [console](https://help.freakhosting.com/portals/game-panel/how-to-use-the-server-console.md). The server is ready when you see a line like `LogWorld: Bringing World /Al_Basrah/Maps/Gameplay_Layers/AlBasrah_AAS_v1… up for play`. In our test this took about 20 seconds after start.

**4. Search by name**

In Squad, open the server browser and search for your exact server name. Check that browser filters aren't hiding it.

## Check you haven't changed the ports

Your server's game port, **Query Port** and **Beacon Port** are set for you. The Steam query port is what the browser uses to read your server's details. If you changed a port in a config file or startup line, undo the change. If you're unsure, [restore a backup](https://help.freakhosting.com/portals/game-panel/how-to-create-and-restore-backups.md) or [open a ticket](https://freakhosting.com/clientarea/submitticket.php).

## Frequently asked questions

### How long does it take for a Squad server to appear in the browser?

It can only appear after the map has loaded. If it still isn't listed a few minutes after the `up for play` line, check **Advertise Server** and the server name.

### Why can't I find my server even though Advertise Server is true?

Check that the value is exactly `true` in lower case, that you restarted after changing it, and that you are searching for the exact name from **Server Name**.

### Which ports does my Squad server use?

A game port, a query port and a beacon port, all assigned by us. You can see them on **Network**, and **Query Port** and **Beacon Port** on **Startup**. See [network and ports](https://help.freakhosting.com/portals/game-panel/how-to-manage-network-and-subdomains.md).

## Related guides

> [card] [Squad server guide](https://help.freakhosting.com/games/squad/squad-server-hosting-guide.md)
>
> Every Squad page in one place.

> [card] [Server settings](https://help.freakhosting.com/games/squad/how-to-change-squad-server-settings-in-the-game-panel.md)
>
> Advertise Server and Server Name.

> [card] [Server not starting](https://help.freakhosting.com/games/squad/squad-server-not-starting.md)
>
> When the map never loads.

> [card] [Getting started](https://help.freakhosting.com/games/squad/getting-started-with-your-squad-server.md)
>
> First setup and joining.

***

> [!NOTE]
>
> **Tested by the FREAKHOSTING team** on our Game Panel on 3 November 2026 (Squad dedicated server v10.6.3). Steps may differ slightly if the game changes.

> [!NOTE]
>
> ### Need Extra Help?
>
> If you encounter any issues, our support team is ready to assist:
>
> * **Live Chat:** Quick assistance via our website.
> * **Support Ticket:** [Open a Ticket](https://freakhosting.com/clientarea/submitticket.php)
> * **Discord:** [Join our Community](https://discord.gg/freakhosting)
> * **Email:** [support@freakhosting.com](mailto:support@freakhosting.com)

> [!TIP]
>
> ### Save on Your Hosting
>
> Ready to upgrade your hosting? Use code **KB20** at checkout for **20% off** your first order!

***

**Last Updated:** November 2026


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