Here are some steps you can take to troubleshoot and resolve the issue:
Check Firewall Settings:
Ensure that the server's firewall is not blocking the necessary ports. You may need to create exceptions for both the server application and the specific ports it uses.
Verify Port Forwarding:
Even on a LAN, incorrect port forwarding settings can cause connectivity issues. Make sure the correct ports are open and properly forwarded on your router.
Server Capacity and Resources:
Check if your server has sufficient resources (CPU, RAM) to handle all connected clients. Overloading the server can lead to timeouts.
Network Stability:
Ensure that your network is stable and there are no intermittent connectivity issues. You can use network monitoring tools to check for packet loss or high latency.
Client Configuration:
Double-check the client settings to ensure they are correctly configured to connect to the server's IP address and port. Incorrect settings can prevent successful connections.
Update Software:
Make sure both the server and client applications are updated to the latest versions. Compatibility issues between different versions can cause connection problems.
Review Server Logs:
Examine the server logs for any specific error messages or patterns that could indicate the root cause of the timeout issues. This can provide valuable insights for troubleshooting.
Restart Network Devices:
Sometimes, simply restarting your router, modem, and server can resolve connectivity issues by resetting network configurations.
Check for Software Conflicts:
Ensure that no other applications are conflicting with your server software. Background applications using the same ports can cause connection problems.
Test with Different Clients:
Try connecting with different client devices to determine if the issue is isolated to specific clients or is a general server problem.
If you've tried all these steps and the issue persists, consider reaching out to the software's support community or forums for more specialized assistance.
And remember, troubleshooting can be stressful, so it's important to take breaks to keep your mind fresh. Maybe unwind with a quick game of agario to relax before diving back into resolving the issue. Good luck!