I've updated my SC2ServerBlocker program to block game servers in SC2. The common use case is if you play on US server but are matched on an Australian one due to opponent(s). Some people experience lag issues, so you might improve your latency/chances to win if you deselect/block some of servers.
In general, I've seen the following during my testing. Regions: EU Only one server, EU Central. It's not listed in the program.
US - US West - US East - US Central - Brazil - Singapore - Australia
Note: my antivirus is suspicious but after scan is complete it says the file is ok. Don't be alarmed. You can check source code for peace of mind.
How it works First, if you don't have lag issues, you don't need to use this program. If you get a laggy game, I suggest you use "Ctrl+Alt+F" in the laggy game to see what server you're on. Example: If you're playing on US but on the top left corner (after you execute "Ctrl+Alt+F") you see a non-US server, e.g. Australia, then it's a good candidate for blocking so you're not matched on this server again if it's laggy for you. Here is a screenshot of top left corner where game server is specified as well as ping: + Show Spoiler +
On December 28 2020 23:25 Elevenst wrote: How does it work?
I've added a section to explain. Thanks for feedback.
How it works First, if you don't have lag issues, you don't need to use this program. If you get a laggy game, I suggest you use "Ctrl+Alt+F" in the laggy game to see what server you're on. Example: If you're playing on US but on the top left corner (after you execute "Ctrl+Alt+F") you see a non-US server, e.g. Australia, then it's a good candidate for blocking so you're not matched on this server again if it's laggy for you. Here is a screenshot of top left corner where game server is specified: + Show Spoiler +
As to how it works technically (not functionally, that's explained above ^^): looks like the application defines firewall rules using the netsh tool that comes with windows. So basically the tool saves you typing stuff like this by hand in the cmd.exe shell:
On December 29 2020 00:27 _fool wrote: As to how it works technically (not functionally, that's explained above ^^): looks like the application defines firewall rules using the netsh tool that comes with windows. So basically the tool saves you typing stuff like this by hand in the cmd.exe shell:
On December 28 2020 22:50 LaughNgamez wrote: Handy tool I recommend everyone use if you get tilted by high ping like me :D
Why Blizzard never included a base option to play only on local servers beats me.
I mean they did--they just chose to make 'preferred servers' not apply from Masters and up (possibly due to ladder qualifier abuse like what Polt and Hydra were doing).
Though given the prevalence of people blocking servers Blizzard absolutely should make it apply to everyone again (and change it so people can select multiple servers). Since right now people that don't block servers are at an unfair ping disadvantage against people that do.
Just messaged you about this again last week or so. Thanks for updating it again. You might not be aware of how many people actually use this, including a lot of GM players
On December 29 2020 13:50 -Kyo- wrote: Just messaged you about this again last week or so. Thanks for updating it again. You might not be aware of how many people actually use this, including a lot of GM players
Yes, I remember. I've updated the program since I replied to you. There is now a confirmation message when you click Block/Unblock buttons (it was so confusing and I don't know why I didn't do it initially). Also I've added missing IP addresses of Australia and Taiwan, I guess they've got updated at some point. I think it's good to update. Thanks for feedback!
How do you determine the IP addresses of new servers as they are added?
Since the IP addresses of the servers will change and you may not always be around to update this app, it would be very helpful to be able to determine what the IP's of a given server region are.
On December 30 2020 01:22 Therapist. wrote: Thanks for doing this!
How do you determine the IP addresses of new servers as they are added?
Since the IP addresses of the servers will change and you may not always be around to update this app, it would be very helpful to be able to determine what the IP's of a given server region are.
Applies to US and KR regions only (EU has only one type of server, EU Central): First, you need to go to Options -> Language and Region. Then, select "Pick Game Server on Lobby Creation". Screenshot: + Show Spoiler +
This way, when you create a custom game, you will have the following list of servers: + Show Spoiler +
Pick server of your interest from that list (e.g. Brazil) and create a game. You could add AI as your opponent. When game is created, run Wireshark (packet sniffer program) and look for UDP traffic. You should see similar exchange of traffic like below: + Show Spoiler +
Tip: close as many applications as possible beforehand to reduce noise. Note: above traffic exchange isn't specific to any game server, I'm unable to host a game at the moment. It's just an example how it could look like. Required programs: Wireshark - https://www.wireshark.org/
I might create a quick configuration file for next update where people could add IPs manually which will be useful when they change.
EPT
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