How to Play Euro Truck Simulator 2 Online: A Complete Multiplayer Guide

Euro Truck Simulator 2 is not just a cargo transportation simulator, but an entire virtual life on the roads of Europe. But the single-player game quickly gets boring when you want to communicate with other drivers, participate in convoys, or just feel like part of live traffic. Luckily, the game has two main ways to play online: official Convoy from SCS Software and a popular modified client TruckersMP.

In this guide, we will analyze both options - from installation and configuration to the nuances of the gameplay. You'll learn how to connect to servers, avoid bans, optimize performance, and even make money on virtual transportation with your friends. And also - unique features of TruckersMP that are not present in the single player game, such as voice chat and events with prizes.

1. Ways to play online in ETS2: Convoy vs TruckersMP

Before diving into the settings, you need to choose a platform for multiplayer. Each option has pros and cons that affect gameplay, stability, and even the social experience.

Convoy - this is a mode built into the game from the developers (SCS Software). It is easier to set up, but limited in functionality: there is no global chat, few players on the servers, and there are often bugs with transport synchronization. But here you can play fashions without the risk of blocking.

TruckersMP is a standalone client created by the community. It offers thousands of players online, voice chat, events from the administration and even a ranking system. However, there are strict rules: for using unauthorized mods or violating traffic rules you can get ban for 30 days or forever. In addition, TruckersMP requires separate installation and regular updates.

• 🔹 Convoy: suitable for playing with friends in a closed company, testing mods, relaxing trips without strict rules.
• 🔹 TruckersMP: Ideal for those who want to immerse themselves in live traffic, participate in public events and connect with the community.
• 🔹 Hybrid option: Some players use Convoy for training and TruckersMP for the main game.

2. Step-by-step instructions for installing TruckersMP

If you have chosen TruckersMP, the first thing you need to do is download and install the client. Important: TruckersMP only works with the licensed version of ETS2 (Pirate builds are not supported and will lead to a ban!).

Follow this algorithm:

1. Download the installer from official website (the version must match your game, e.g. 1.49.x).
2. Run the installer and select the folder with Euro Truck Simulator 2 (usually this is Steam\steamapps\common\Euro Truck Simulator 2).
3. After installation, run TruckersMP Launcher and log in via Steam or create an account on the site.
4. In the launcher, select a server (for example, Europe 1 for beginners) and click Drive.

The first launch can take up to 10 minutes - the client synchronizes data with the servers. If the game doesn't start, check:

• 🔧 Version compatibility (the launcher and Steam must have the same version of ETS2).
• 🔧 No mods in the folder mod (TruckersMP blocks most modifications).
• 🔧 Antivirus - sometimes it blocks files TruckersMP (add exception).

Important: TruckersMP automatically updates the client when new patches are released, but sometimes manual reinstallation is required. Follow them for news status page.

3. Setting up Convoy to play with friends

Convoy does not require separate installation - it is built into the game, but you need to activate it. This mode is suitable for private sessions with friends or testing mods in multiplayer.

To launch Convoy:

1. Open Euro Truck Simulator 2 and select Play → Convoy.
2. Create a new session or join an existing one (friends must be on the Steam network).
3. Configure server parameters: number of slots, permission to use mods, weather conditions.

The main advantage of Convoy is mod support. You can play with cards ProMods, realistic physics or even customized trucks. However, there are also disadvantages:

• ⚠️ There is no global chat - you can only communicate through Steam Chat or Discord.
• ⚠️ Limit on the number of players (maximum 8 in one session).
• ⚠️ Frequent desynchronization of vehicles (cars can “teleport”).

How to fix lags in Convoy?

If Convoy is experiencing freezing or desyncing, try:

- Reduce the number of mods (especially those that change physics or AI traffic).

- Disable "Time Sync" in Convoy settings.

- Use a wired Internet connection (Wi-Fi often gives a ping above 100 ms).

For a stable game in Convoy it is recommended:

• 🔹 Use the same mods for all session participants.
• 🔹 Allocate at least 8 GB of RAM to the host (session creator).
• 🔹 Play on servers with low ping (in Steam settings, select the region closest to you).

4. TruckersMP rules: how not to get banned

TruckersMP is famous for its strict rules, and violating them will result in your account being blocked. The most common reasons for bans:

Violation	Fine	How to avoid
Using unauthorized mods (for example, realistic physics or cards)	From 7 days to (permanent)	Play only with approved mods from official list
Violation of traffic rules (running red, driving in oncoming traffic)	From warning to 30 days	Obey speed limits and overtaking rules
Insults in chat or voice channel	From 3 days to	Use the function /ignore [nickname] to block toxic players
Blocking traffic (parking on the road, creating traffic jams)	From 1 day to 7 days	Park only in permitted zones (marked on the map)

Particular attention is paid fashion. TruckersMP only allows:

• 🔧 Cosmetic mods (painting, cabin tuning).
• 🔧 Sound packs (unless they change the horns or sirens).
• 🔧 Realistic mirrors (for example, FT Mirror Mod).

Prohibited:

• 🚫 Any mods that change physics or AI traffic.
• 🚫 Maps, except official DLC from SCS.
• 🚫 Mods that give an advantage (for example, endless fuel or accelerated time).

If you still receive a ban, you can try to appeal it through appeal system. But the chances of success are low - the administration rarely lifts blockages without strong evidence of innocence.

5. Optimizing the game for online: how to avoid lags

In both Convoy and TruckersMP the main problem is delays and freezes. They arise due to unstable Internet, weak PC or overloaded servers. Here's how to minimize lag:

For TruckersMP:

• 🔹 In the launcher settings, select Low or Medium in section Multiplayer Quality.
• 🔹 Disable Additional effects (for example, smoke from wheels or reflections in puddles).
• 🔹 Set the FPS limit to 60 (in graphic_settings.sii add the line uset g_force_fps_limit"60").

For Convoy:

• 🔹 The host (session creator) must have a powerful PC (from 16 GB of RAM and SSD).
• 🔹 Use the mod Convoy Fix Pack to reduce desynchronization.
• 🔹 Close background programs that consume a lot of traffic (for example, torrents).

If you have high ping (more than 150ms), try:

• 🔹 Connect to another server (in TruckersMP select Europe 2 instead of Europe 1).
• 🔹 Use a VPN with servers in Europe (sometimes this paradoxically reduces ping).
• 🔹 Switch to a wired connection (Wi-Fi adds ~30-50 ms to ping).

6. How to play with friends: creating convoys and companies

One of the main advantages of being online in ETS2 is the ability to create convoys or joint ventures. TruckersMP has special commands and mechanics for this.

Creating a convoy:

1. Gather with friends in the same parking lot (e.g. Amsterdam or Berlin).
2. Write in chat /convoy create [name] (for example, /convoy create"Moskva-Truckers").
3. Friends must enter /convoy join [name].
4. Now you travel together, and your trucks are displayed on the map of convoy participants.

Joint company:

In TruckersMP you can create a virtual company and hire friends as drivers. To do this:

1. Buy a garage (minimum price - 500,000 €).
2. From the garage menu, select Company management → Hire a driver.
3. Send an invitation to a friend via team /invite [nickname].

In Convoy, the mechanics are simpler - just create a closed session and invite friends via Steam. However, there is no salary system or shared budget.

Tips for gaming companies:

• 💡 Buy trucks of the same brand (for example, Scania S or Volvo FH) for a unified style.
• 💡 Use Discord for voice communication - TruckersMP's built-in chat is not always stable.
• 💡 Participate in events (for example, TruckersMP Meetups) - this gives bonuses and increases the company’s reputation.

7. Earning money and progress online: what carries over to single-player play

Many players are worried: Will money and experience earned online be saved in single player? The answer depends on the mode:

In TruckersMP:

• 🔹 Money, experience and purchased trucks/garages NOT transferred into a single player game.
• 🔹 Progress is saved only on TruckersMP servers (linked to your account).
• 🔹 If you play on ProMods or other maps, they will not appear in a single player game.

In Convoy:

• 🔹 Everything you earned in multiplayer, saved in your single profile.
• 🔹 Purchased trucks and garages will also be available in single player.
• 🔹 However, if you used mods in Convoy, they may not work correctly in single player.

If your goal is to level up your single player profile, choose Convoy. If you want to immerse yourself in a social experience, TruckersMP, but be prepared to start from scratch.

8. Common problems and their solutions

Even if configured correctly, ETS2 online may still experience errors. Here are the most common ones and how to fix them:

Problem	Reason	Solution
"Version mismatch" error	The game versions on Steam and TruckersMP do not match	Update ETS2 on Steam or reinstall TruckersMP
Crashes when loading the world	Mod conflict or low memory	Remove all mods, run with the parameter -nologs
I don't see any friends in Convoy	Different versions of mods or desynchronization	Check mod compatibility and restart your session
High ping in TruckersMP	Overloaded server or weak internet	Change server or use VPN

If the problem is not resolved, check:

• 🔧 Game logs (file game.log in a folder Euro Truck Simulator 2).
• 🔧 Firewall settings (allow access for eurotrucks2.exe and TruckersMP.exe).
• 🔧 File integrity on Steam (Properties → Local Files → Check Integrity).

What should I do if TruckersMP doesn't see my game?

If the TruckersMP launcher says "Game not found", check:

- Path to the game in the launcher settings (should lead to the folder with eurotrucks2.exe).

- File availability steam_api64.dll in the root folder of the game (if it is not there, reinstall ETS2).

- Administrator rights when launching the launcher.

FAQ: Answers to popular questions

Is it possible to play ETS2 online on a pirated version?

No. TruckersMP blocks unlicensed copies, and Convoy requires authorization through Steam. Pirated builds also often contain viruses and do not support multiplayer.

How to enable voice chat in TruckersMP?

Voice chat starts automatically when you press a key Caps Lock (default). To change the key, go to Settings → Controls → Voice chat. Make sure the microphone is not blocked in Windows settings.

Why is anti-cheat banning me in TruckersMP?

Anti-cheat works on:

• 🔴 Unauthorized mods (even if they do not provide benefits).
• 🔴 Cheating programs (for example, Cheat Engine).
• 🔴 Suspicious activity (for example, traveling a route too quickly).

If the ban is unfair, file an appeal with game logs.

Can I play ETS2 online on Mac or Linux?

Officially, TruckersMP only supports Windows. However there are workarounds:

• 🖥️ On Mac: use Boot Camp or Parallels Desktop with Windows 10/11.
• 🐧 On Linux: install ETS2 via Proton (Steam Play), but TruckersMP may not launch.

Convoy works on all platforms, but with possible lags.

How to make a lot of money quickly in TruckersMP?

TruckersMP uses the same principles as the single player game, but with some nuances:

• 💰 Take it long-distance orders (for example, Madrid → Helsinki).
• 💰 Use trucks with large fuel tank (for example, Scania R 730).
• 💰 Participate in events (for example, TruckersMP Christmas Convoy), where they give bonus money.

Avoid "farming" (repeatedly completing short orders) - this can be regarded as cheating.