For those just returning: The original IW4X team (XLabs) ceased active development years ago. However, the client operates on a "Community Maintenance" model. Several developers have stepped up unofficially to keep the lights on.
Warning: Because IW4X is an abandoned project by its original creators, do not download installers from random YouTube videos claiming "IW4X Reloaded." Stick to the archived builds and community Discord pins to ensure you aren't downloading malware.
When a user clicks "Refresh" or starts the client, the following handshake occurs:
Ensure your server configuration file (server.cfg) includes the correct master server definition.
The team behind IW4x is currently focusing on H2M (Modern Warfare 2 Remastered multiplayer) and IW6x (Call of Duty: Ghosts). Because of this, do not expect a patch for the IW4x server browser. iw4x server list updated
Final Verdict: If you see "iw4x server list updated" but no games appear, ignore the browser. Use the Direct Connect console command or the Hosts file fix above. The game is still playable—you just have to work a little harder to find the fight.
Note: As these are community-run projects, server status changes rapidly. Check the IW4x Discord or Reddit (r/XLabs) for the latest raw IP addresses.
As of April 2026, the (Modern Warfare 2) custom client is still functional, though its operation has shifted following the 2023 Activision cease-and-desist order
against XLabs. The project is now largely maintained by independent groups or through the initiative. Updated Ways to Find Servers For those just returning: The original IW4X team
Because the original master server was shut down, you may need alternative methods to populate your server list: AlterWare Launcher : Most players have migrated to the AlterWare launcher
, which provides its own master server list and regular client updates. Manual IP Connection
: If your server list appears empty, you can manually connect to known servers using the console. Open the console (typically the tilde key) and type: /connect [IP Address] External Server Browsers : Websites like often host updated lists of active IW4x server IPs. Direct Join via Discord : Community Discords (such as the AlterWare Discord MW2 Reddit Discord
) are currently the most reliable ways to find active, populated lobbies and organized game nights. Server Population Trends (2026) Peak Times Ensure your server configuration file ( server
: Servers are most active during evening hours in NA and EU regions, typically maintaining 2–5 fully populated lobbies. Bot Filling
: Many dedicated servers use bots to keep lobbies active when player counts are low.
: Most active servers have disabled DLC maps because players without the DLC are automatically kicked when those maps are selected. Important 2026 Compatibility Notes