Hamachi - Free Download (2026)

Name: Hamachi
Availability: InStock
Author: LogMeIn, Inc.

Hamachi - Virtual LAN

Hamachi is a VPN tool by LogMeIn that creates virtual local networks over the internet. You and up to four other people (on the free plan) get connected as if you were on the same LAN. The main reason people install it is to play older games that only support LAN multiplayer - Hamachi tricks the game into thinking everyone is on the same local network.

It also works for remote file sharing and accessing computers on a private network without setting up port forwarding or messing with your router. The free version supports up to 5 computers per network. Paid plans go up to 256.

What it does

Create a network (Network > Create a New Network), pick an ID and password, and share those with whoever needs to join. Each computer gets a virtual IP address in the 25.x.x.x range. Once connected, you can ping each other, share folders, use remote desktop, or host LAN game sessions as if you were in the same room.

The connection indicator next to each member tells you the status: green dot means direct tunnel, yellow means traffic is relayed through Hamachi's servers (slower), red means no connection. If you are stuck on relay, it usually means a firewall is blocking the direct connection.

Advantages

Simple setup for LAN gaming over the internet
No router configuration or port forwarding needed
AES 256-bit encryption
Works on Windows, Mac, and Linux

Drawbacks

Free version limited to 5 computers per network
Connections sometimes fall back to relay mode, which adds latency
Radmin VPN and ZeroTier offer similar features with higher free limits
Tailscale is a more modern alternative using WireGuard

Who it is for

Hamachi is mostly used for LAN gaming with friends who are not on the same network. If you need more than 5 connections for free, Radmin VPN or ZeroTier are better options. For anything more serious than gaming, Tailscale or WireGuard are worth looking at.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Hamachi free?

Yes, the free version supports up to 5 computers per network. Paid plans start at $49/year for up to 32 devices.

Is Hamachi safe?

Hamachi uses AES 256-bit encryption for all connections. It is made by LogMeIn, a well-known remote access company. The software itself is safe to use.

How do I play LAN games with Hamachi?

Create a network in Hamachi, share the network ID and password with your friends. Once everyone joins, start your game and look for LAN or Direct IP options. Use the Hamachi IP address to connect.

Why is my Hamachi connection yellow (relayed)?

A yellow dot means traffic is going through Hamachi's servers instead of a direct connection. This is usually caused by a firewall blocking the direct tunnel. Check your firewall settings and allow Hamachi through.

What are alternatives to Hamachi?

Radmin VPN and ZeroTier offer similar virtual LAN features with higher free limits. Tailscale is a more modern option built on WireGuard. All three are free for personal use.

Features & How-To Guide

#	Feature	How to use
1	Virtual LAN creation	Network › Create new network › Type ID and password. Others join by providing these credentials.
2	Joining existing network	Network › Join existing network › Type network ID and password.
3	Card grouping	Create Hamachi network › Join players › In game select Direct IP/LAN and type Hamachi address.
4	File sharing between computers	Connect computers to one network › Share Windows folder › Access via Hamachi IP address.
5	Remote PC access	Connect computers in Hamachi network › Use Remote Desktop (RDP) or file sharing via Hamachi address.
6	Network topology configuration	Management panel › Select type: Mesh (peer-to-peer), Hub-and-spoke (central node), Gateway.
7	Network member management	Right-click on user › Kick out / Block. Network owner manages access.
8	Connection diagnostics	Right-click on network member › Check status (green dot = connected, yellow = relay, red = disconnected).