“Port Not Registered” Error in SCP:SL Servers
Problem Description
When hosting an SCP: Secret Laboratory server, you may encounter the following error:
[YYYY-MM-DD HH:MM:SS] Could not update server data on server list – [SECURITY VIOLATION] Specified port is not registered. Please contact your hosting provider if you believe this is an error.
This occurs when your hosting provider has pre-registered or verified all IP addresses under their ownership with SCP:SL’s central servers. This includes IPs assigned to dedicated servers, VPS, or shared hosting environments. When your server attempts to verify itself:
-
The central server detects the IP is already registered.
-
A new verification key (
verkey
) cannot be generated, preventing proper server registration. - The server fails to appear on the public list, even if it is technically reachable(via direct connection with ip adress.).
----> You can find a list of hosting providers with pre-verified systems (where this issue may occur) here
Solutions
1. Contact Your Hosting Provider
For verified/public servers:
If you want your server to appear on the public list:
-
Ask your hosting provider to unverify/unregister the specific IP address assigned to your server.
-
Restart your server afterward to trigger a new verification attempt. (here you can find a step by step guide on how to verify your server.)
Note:
-
Some providers may refuse due to shared infrastructure or policy.
-
If unverification is not possible, proceed to Solution 2 and 3.
2. Use a Domain Name (Private Servers Only)
If your server is private and you own a domain:
-
Point your domain to the server’s IP (e.g.,
scpsl.yourdomain.com
→192.0.2.1
). -
Edit your server’s
config_gameplay.txt
to use the domain.server_ip: scpsl.yourdomain.com
- Restart your server.
Key Notes:
-
Players can connect via the domain (e.g.,
scpsl.yourdomain.com:7777
). -
Domains are not supported for official verification. Verification requires a static IP address.
3. Request a Unique IP Address
Some hosting providers offer dedicated IPs for an additional fee. A unique IP ensures:
-
No conflicts with pre-verified addresses.
-
Smooth verification for public servers.
- If your hosting provider provides you with an Unique IP Address Restart your server afterward to trigger a new verification attempt. (here you can find a step by step guide on how to verify your server.)
Troubleshooting
If the error persists:
-
Confirm your
server_ip
inconfig_gameplay.txt
matches your domain or dedicated IP. -
Verify DNS propagation (e.g.,
ping yourdomain.com
). -
Ensure no firewall/proxy is blocking the server’s port.