JoinFS Frequently Asked Questions

JoinFS is a cross-platform multiplayer networking client for flight simulators that lets pilots fly together, including formation flying and shared cockpit scenarios.

JoinFS supports major sims including Microsoft Flight Simulator 2024, Microsoft Flight Simulator 2020, Prepar3D, X-Plane, FSX: Steam Edition, and FSX.

JoinFS uses a decentralized, hostless, peer-to-peer network topology designed for low-latency traffic and smooth aircraft movement (including close formation flying).

The JoinFS Hub network is a public, decentralized discovery network where sessions can be listed publicly for general flying or special events—without relying on a single central server.

Yes. One of JoinFS’s key features is letting pilots on different supported simulators fly in the same session and see each other.

Yes. JoinFS supports shared cockpit across different simulators, with multi-role cockpit options and “passenger” capability.

For Microsoft Flight Simulator 2020/2024, Prepar3D and FSX, JoinFS relies on SimConnect (the manual commonly references SimConnect v10.0.61259.0).

Yes. JoinFS sessions are designed so that if the original creator leaves, the session can continue normally.

Aircraft visuals depend on model matching (and sometimes model substitution/masquerading). If JoinFS can’t match a model, you may see a substitute model instead.

It depends on the simulator/version:

• Many setups use a model scan to improve matching.

• For MSFS 2020, model scanning is noted as no longer supported in some versions, because models are automatically discovered as they appear in the simulator.

Model masquerading lets you substitute the aircraft model you broadcast—so other pilots can see you as a different aircraft if needed.

Yes—JoinFS can transmit common aircraft animations such as gear, control surfaces, props, canopy, lights, and smoke (depending on simulator/model).

Yes. JoinFS includes a recorder and can replay recorded aircraft “live” over the network so others in your session can see the playback—useful for training or formation practice.

JoinFS is designed to be a thin client between the simulator and the network, commonly described as using very low CPU and memory.

JoinFS includes a friends list (sometimes referenced as bookmarks in older documentation) to make it easier to find and reconnect with other pilots.

Make sure:

• Your simulator is running and fully loaded into a flight

• Required components (e.g., SimConnect for MSFS/P3D/FSX) are installed

• Any required plugins (e.g., for X-Plane) are correctly installed

Common causes include:

• You’re not in the same session/hub as the group

• Model matching issues (you may see substitutes)

• Network/router restrictions (port forwarding may be needed for hosting)

• View/range settings such as “circle of activity” limiting what you see