If DRE never connects to Assetto Corsa Competizione (ACC), here are some tips to get going:

Ensure you’ve set up DRE and ACC correctly

First of all, see this FAQ how to set up DRE and ACC the right way.

Add exceptions in your Anti-Virus software

Some times, Anti-Virus applications will block port sharing, causing DRE to never reach the very much needed UDP connection.

The location of the DRE execution file can be found through DRE: Settings -> General -> Show installation folder -> DRE.exe

Allowing DRE Through Windows Defender Firewall

For many users, the built-in Windows Defender Firewall is the first line of defense. Here’s how you can allow DRE through:

1. Allow an app through the firewall:

• Open Windows Security by searching for it in the Start menu.

• Navigate to Firewall & network protection.

• Click on “Allow an app through firewall”.

• Click the “Change settings” button. You might be prompted for an administrator password.

• Find DRE in the list. If it’s not there, click “Allow another app…” and browse to DRE’s installation folder to select the main executable file.

• Once DRE is listed, ensure the checkbox next to it is ticked.

• Also, tick the boxes for the network types your users will be on (usually Private).

• Click OK to save the changes.

2. Create a specific rule for UDP port 9000:

If allowing the app doesn’t resolve the issue, creating a specific inbound rule for UDP port 9000 can help.

• In the Firewall & network protection screen, click on “Advanced settings”.

• In the new window, select “Inbound Rules” on the left.

• On the right, click “New Rule…”.

• Select “Port” and click Next.

• Choose “UDP” and in “Specific local ports,” type 9000. Click Next.

• Select “Allow the connection” and click Next.

• Choose the network profiles where the rule should apply (e.g., Private). Click Next.

• Give the rule a name (e.g., “DRE x ACC UDP”) and click Finish.

Configuring Third-Party Antivirus Software

Many users rely on third-party antivirus suites that come with their own firewalls. The process of adding an exception is similar across most of them.

For Avast Users:

1. Open the Avast application and go to Protection > Firewall.

2. Click on “Application Rules”.

3. If DRE is not listed, you can add it manually.

4. You can also create a new rule to allow traffic on UDP port 9000 if the option is available.

For AVG Users:

1. Open AVG and go to Menu > Settings.

2. Navigate to General > Exceptions and click “ADD EXCEPTION”.

3. You can then browse for DRE’s executable file to add it to the exceptions list.

4. Alternatively, for firewall-specific settings, go to the Firewall section and look for “Application rules” to allow DRE.

For McAfee Users:

1. Open the McAfee Security Center and go to the “Firewall” section.

2. Look for an option like “Internet Connections for Programs” or “Program Permissions”.

3. Click “Add” or a similar button to browse for and select DRE’s executable file.

4. Ensure the permission is set to “Allow” or “Full”.

5. Some versions allow adding exceptions for specific ports under the “Ports and System Services” section.

For Norton Users:

1. Open Norton 360 and go to Settings > Firewall.

2. Select the “Program Control” tab.

3. Click “Add” to browse for and add DRE to the list of allowed programs.

4. You can also create a specific traffic rule by going to Advanced Settings > General Rules and adding a new rule to allow UDP traffic on port 9000.

Important Note: You should always ensure you trust an application before allowing it through the firewall. If you are unsure about any of these steps, it is recommended to consult the support documentation for the specific antivirus software.