# Can't See LAN Game

Make Sure You're On The Same Subnet

Some of the TCP/IP Games that are LAN based only have one way of utilizing a Dynamic based TCP address. These computers rely on the idea that the subnet mask Short for subnetwork mask, a subnet mask is method of dividing a network of IP addresses into groups. A common example of a subnet mask used is 255.255.255.0 for all computers will be the same with the individual computer address being unique. With this in mind it is a good idea to make sure that all computers participating in the LAN game are using the same subnet mask.

To find out what subnet mask a computer is using:

1. Click Start and Run and type 'command' then click OK.

2. In the DOS window that appears type 'ipconfig' and press ENTER.

3. Your Subnet Mask will be listed.

Don't Bypass A Network Logon

Some Networks (especially those in a business environment) require a logon when the computer is started. Make sure that this logon was not bypassed when the computer was started. Reboot your computer to make sure.

Run a Direct Play Test

If you are unable to make a connection through the DirectX utility the game will most likely be unable to make one either.

1. Click Start, and then click Run.

2. In the Open box, type dxdiag, and then click OK.

3. In the DirectX Diagnostic Tool, click the Network tab, and then click Test DirectPlay.

4. In the DirectPlay Test dialog box, type your name in the User Name box.

5. Click DirectPlay TCP/IP Service Provider.

6. In the TCP/IP Port box, type the port number.

7. Click Create New Session, and then click OK. The Dxdiag DirectPlay Chat appears.

8. To ask another player to join your session, click Join Existing Session.

Note If you run the DirectPlay test over the Internet, the host player must send the joining player or players his current Internet Protocol (IP) address.

9. Perform the test again, but now as a joining player (ask the other player to act as a host).

Latest Version? Often times patches or updates are released for games. One computer may be running a different version of the game than the other. Visit the games web site or check http://techsupport.ea.com to see if a patch has been released.

EA Tech Tip: | If your subnet mask is different than the other computers on your LAN make sure the Network Configuration of the computer is the same as the rest of the computers on the Network. Your Network Configuration/Connections can be accessed through the Windows Control Panel.