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Total War Warhammer 3 Error Failed to Host Game on Windows 11: How to Fix and Solve the Issue

Total War: Warhammer 3 is an exciting strategy game that many players enjoy. However, some users face the frustrating “Failed to Host Game” error on Windows 11. This issue can prevent you from hosting multiplayer games smoothly.

Don’t worry, this guide will walk you through simple and clear steps to fix this problem. Whether you are a beginner or somewhat experienced, these instructions will help you get back to gaming quickly.

The troubleshooting process starts with the easiest solutions and moves to more advanced ones. Each step explains why it matters and how to perform it properly.

By the end of this article, you should have a working multiplayer setup and understand common causes of this error.

Quick Note: Before You Start Troubleshooting

  • Make sure your Windows 11 is fully updated. Updates often fix compatibility issues.
  • Verify that Total War: Warhammer 3 and Steam (if used) are updated to the latest versions.
  • Ensure your internet connection is stable and working with other online services.
  • Check if your firewall or antivirus software is not blocking the game or Steam.

Step 1: Restart Your Computer and Router

Sometimes, simple restarts can resolve temporary network or software glitches. Restarting your PC refreshes system resources, and restarting your router fixes connection issues.

  1. Close Total War: Warhammer 3 and Steam completely.
  2. Restart your computer by clicking the Start menu > Power > Restart.
  3. Turn off your router, wait 30 seconds, then turn it back on.
  4. Once everything is back online, launch the game and try hosting again.

Step 2: Run the Game and Steam as Administrator

Running the game and Steam with administrator privileges can solve permission-related problems. This allows the programs to access necessary system files and network resources.

  1. Close Total War: Warhammer 3 and Steam.
  2. Right-click the Steam shortcut on your desktop or Start menu.
  3. Select Run as administrator.
  4. After Steam opens, right-click the game in your library, select Properties, then go to the Local Files tab and click Browse.
  5. In the game folder, find the game executable (.exe file), right-click it, and choose Run as administrator.
  6. Try hosting a game again.

Step 3: Check Windows Firewall and Antivirus Settings

Your firewall or antivirus can block the game’s network connections, causing hosting failures. You need to allow Total War: Warhammer 3 and Steam through these security features.

Allow the Game and Steam Through Windows Firewall

  1. Press Windows + S, type Windows Defender Firewall, and open it.
  2. Click Allow an app or feature through Windows Defender Firewall on the left panel.
  3. Click Change settings and then Allow another app….
  4. Browse to your Steam installation folder (usually C:Program Files (x86)Steam) and add Steam.exe.
  5. Do the same for the Total War: Warhammer 3 executable file.
  6. Make sure both apps are allowed on Private and Public networks.
  7. Click OK and restart your game.

Check Your Antivirus Software

If you use third-party antivirus software, open its settings and look for exclusions or exceptions. Add both Steam and Total War: Warhammer 3 executables to the list to prevent blocking.

Step 4: Disable VPN or Proxy Services

Using VPNs or proxies can interfere with hosting multiplayer games by changing your network settings. Try disabling these services temporarily.

  1. Close the game and any VPN or proxy applications.
  2. Open Settings > Network & Internet > VPN and disconnect any active VPN connections.
  3. Under Proxy, ensure the proxy server is turned off.
  4. Restart your computer and try hosting the game again.

Step 5: Verify Game Files Integrity

Corrupted or missing game files can cause hosting errors. Verifying your game files through Steam will check for and fix any issues.

  1. Open Steam and go to your Library.
  2. Right-click on Total War: Warhammer 3 and select Properties.
  3. Go to the Local Files tab and click Verify integrity of game files….
  4. Wait for Steam to check and repair files if needed.
  5. Try hosting the game again once complete.

Step 6: Update Network Drivers

Outdated or faulty network drivers can cause connection problems. Keeping them updated ensures better compatibility with Windows 11 and online games.

  1. Press Windows + X and select Device Manager.
  2. Expand the Network adapters section.
  3. Right-click your network device (Wi-Fi or Ethernet) and choose Update driver.
  4. Select Search automatically for updated driver software.
  5. If a new driver is found, install it and restart your PC.
  6. Test hosting the game again.

Advanced Option: Use Port Forwarding

If you continue to have trouble, your router may be blocking the required network ports for hosting games. Forwarding these ports can help.

  1. Find your router’s IP address (usually 192.168.1.1 or 192.168.0.1).
  2. Log in to your router’s web interface using a browser.
  3. Look for the Port Forwarding section (under Advanced or NAT settings).
  4. Add new forwarding rules for the following common Total War multiplayer ports:
    • TCP: 27015-27030
    • UDP: 27000-27100
  5. Save changes and restart your router.
  6. Try hosting the game again.

Note: Router interfaces vary, so check your router’s manual or website for specific instructions.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Why does the “Failed to Host Game” error happen in Total War: Warhammer 3?

This error usually occurs due to network issues, blocked ports, firewall or antivirus interference, or corrupted game files.

Can I fix this issue without changing router settings?

Yes. Many users resolve it by updating Windows, running the game as administrator, and adjusting firewall settings.

Will disabling my antivirus put my computer at risk?

Temporarily disabling antivirus can help identify if it’s causing the issue. Always re-enable it afterward or add exceptions to keep protection active.

Is it necessary to update Windows 11 for this fix?

Updating Windows ensures compatibility with games and fixes known bugs, so it is highly recommended.

What if I’m still seeing the error after trying all steps?

Try contacting the game’s official support or community forums for help, or see the “When Nothing Works” section below.

When Nothing Works

If you have carefully followed all the steps above and still cannot host a game, consider these final options:

  • Contact Official Support: Visit the Total War Support page and submit a ticket.
  • Check Community Forums: The Steam Community Hub and Total War forums often have solutions shared by other players.
  • Reinstall the Game: As a last resort, uninstall and reinstall Total War: Warhammer 3 to fix any deep file corruption.

Conclusion

Experiencing the “Failed to Host Game” error in Total War: Warhammer 3 on Windows 11 can be frustrating, but it is usually fixable with simple steps. Start with restarting your system, running the game with administrator rights, and checking firewall settings.

Verifying game files and updating network drivers often solve underlying problems. For persistent issues, port forwarding and contacting official help are effective next steps.

By following this guide carefully, you should be able to host multiplayer games again and enjoy your Total War experience without interruptions.

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