Join an Arma 3 Server Through Steam or Direct Connect

Getting Connected

Arma 3 multiplayer works best when everyone can get into the same server without wrestling the launcher for half the evening. Whether you are joining a private tactical group, a modded scenario, or a public community server, the basic process is the same: copy the server address, add it in Steam, then connect through the Arma 3 launcher.

A dedicated Arma 3 server can host official modes, community missions, custom scenarios, vehicles, weapons, and mod collections. The only catch is that modded servers often require your client to match the server's enabled mods and DLC. Steam and the Arma 3 launcher handle most of that, provided you choose the right connection option.

Add the Server IP in Steam

1. Open the HolyHosting control panel and log in.
2. Find the server's IP Address:Port field.

1. Copy the full address, including the port.
2. Launch Steam.
3. In the top Steam menu, go to View > Game Servers or View > Servers, depending on your Steam version.
4. Select Favorites, then choose Add A Server.
5. Paste the copied IP address and port.

1. Click Add this address to favorites.

After a short moment, refresh the server list. Your Arma 3 server should appear in the favorites list and can be used again later without copying the IP each time. Small mercy, large battlefield.

Connect from Steam Favorites

1. Stay on the Steam server window used above.
2. Select your Arma 3 server from the favorites list.
3. Click Connect.

1. Wait for the Arma 3 connection prompt to appear.
2. Choose whether to set up required mods or keep your current mod selection.

Once an option is selected, Steam will pass the connection to Arma 3 and the game will begin joining the server. If the server uses mods, choosing the setup option is usually the safest route because it helps match your client to the server configuration.

Connect Directly from the Server Panel

If you do not want to add the IP manually, you can also use the Steam connect button from the server panel. This launches the connection directly, although adding the server to Steam favorites is better if you plan to rejoin often.

1. Open the HolyHosting control panel and log in.
2. Scroll to the IP Address:Port area.
3. Click Connect with Steam.

1. If your browser asks for permission to open Steam, accept the prompt.
2. When the Arma 3 launcher prompt appears, choose whether to set up mods or keep the current selection.
3. Continue into the game.

To reconnect later, open the Arma 3 launcher and check the Servers section. Recent servers usually appear there, so you can rejoin without returning to the panel every time.

Common Problems

The server does not show after refreshing Steam: Confirm the server is online in the control panel. If it recently started, give it a little time, then refresh again. You can also restart the server and watch the console during startup to confirm it finishes loading properly. If the IP was typed manually, check the address and port carefully, then use Find Games at this Address. If Steam still refuses to cooperate, try the direct panel connection instead.

A modded server will not let you join: This usually means your enabled mods or DLC do not match the server. When the launcher asks, choose the option to set up the required mods. If several players have the same issue, one of the server mods may be outdated, missing, or incorrectly configured and should be reviewed on the server side.

Useful Link

Arma 3 on Steam