How to Fix Connectivity Issues With Microsoft Games

Online play is, for many gamers, at the heart of gaming. You can play many Microsoft games, such as Age of Empires and the Flight Simulator, online. Yet, it can be frustrating when you have to fix connectivity issues with Microsoft games.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

1. Reboot your computer. Many times, a simple reboot will correct whatever problem exists with connectivity issues.

2. Check your Internet connection. You should be able to use email, browse websites or use instant messaging programs (see Resources).

3. Update your Microsoft game software. In most Microsoft games, you'll find an "Update" button, usually in the "Options" menu. Updating allows you to be certain that any known connection-related bugs are fixed in your software.

4. Get the latest version of Microsoft DirectX. DirectX is an essential component to most Microsoft games. DirectX is allows your Microsoft game to send instructions directly to your computer's video and audio hardware. You can download the latest version of DirectX at the Microsoft DirectX website.

5. Verify your Microsoft game license. Many Microsoft games will not connect properly if they are not legal, licensed copies of the game.

6. Look for firewall-related problems. Some Microsoft games require you to open certain ports on your firewall. Your game documentation tells you which ports you need to open. Your router or firewall documentation tells you how to open access to those ports.

Resources

• Microsoft DirectX
• Microsoft Knowledge Base