Hi guys... here's my first post. But let me tell you, before I create this one, I've readed most of the topics without gettin' successed. Ok here we go...
I played this game many years ago (last time was 2012/2013 year) with my brother, each one of us with his own computer, connected behind a same router. I always hosted a dedicated server using the "server manager v2.9" (such a great tool!) connecting me and my brother and other players joined too with us to play
coop... Followed all the steps that you published here and followed other tutorials too (this means open ports, disabling TCP/IPv6, setting a static IP, configuring ServerManager, ect).
Never had a problem, never! . In that time, we both used Windows 7 ultimate 32 bits (or maybe 64 bits, can't remember) and the ISP provided us a modem-router (coaxial cable and wi-fi service) but the device was locked! so I can't managed ports unless I disabled NAT, in order to function like a normal modem and no wi-fi. Separately, connected this device to a router I buyed (TP-Link TL-R460 Cable/DLS) and connected to it both computers. Golden memories...
Now...
After 5 years, we want to play again, following all the mentioned steps and... nothing!
I have upgrade to a brand new computer and running Windows 10 pro x64 (fall creators update 1709). My brother still has the same PC, even Windows 7 ultimate x64. We changed to another ISP, which provide us another type of modem-router device (no need to use my old TP Link anymore). This device allows us connect both computers and routing, managing ports with no restrictions like the other one.
The point of all I mentioned, is the new problem: I can host and enter successfully in my own server created with Service manager 2.9 (or without it too)... but when I'm in (character select n' equipment screen or lobby) my brother can't!! it shows to him the "CD key already in use" message. Or vice versa: first he can enter to my server and then when I try to enter I can't, showin' the same message to me LOL...
What I (or we, in some cases) do:
-Use same retail (pirated... sorry) version of the game (H&D2 and H&D2: Sabre Squadron) and updated to 1.12 and cracked
-Keep my same static IP, disablin' obviosly IPv6 and reset TCP/IP stack
-Open and managed ports from my device and firewall (11000-11500 and 2332 UDP/TCP)
-disabled IP helper service (aplicación auxiliar IP)
-Changed several times the CD Key editing the reg entry; or using the Serial Key Changer tool
-Execute the game and all its instances with admin privileges, or compatibilities modes (Windows XP SP3 nor Windows 7)
-Try setting server manager 2.9 both local and internet
-Patchin' the Host file in both computers
-Applying the H&D2v4Fix-x64
-..........
Nothing works! Maybe there's something I missing n' I don't remember what it is, but I'm about to givin' up, seriously
So the only way we can see my server on the list is add it manually, typing my local IP and port (192.168.1.110:11001) but just one of us can enter... I assume other players maybe can join? I don't know...
So I hope all my explanations are useful to understand my problem and really hope you can help me to solve it. If you need some pics about any of my configs, just tell me.
Thank you so much in advice!! Really!
(P.D: sorry for my english)