How can we help?
Most problems are solved in under a minute. Start with the guide that fits.
Set up in three steps
Install the PC server
Download the Gamepad Server installer and run it. It installs the ViGEmBus virtual-gamepad driver (so games see a real Xbox 360 controller) and the Windows Firewall rule for you — one permission prompt during setup, then it starts silently every time with nothing left to configure.
Windows SmartScreen may warn because the app is unsigned. Choose More info → Run anyway. Some antivirus tools flag new unsigned apps — allow it or add an exclusion.
Install the app and pair
Install the Android APK, open it, tap Scan and point the camera at the QR code in the server window. Both devices must be on the same Wi-Fi network — pairing is instant and remembered for next time.
Prefer a cable? Enable Developer options → USB debugging on the phone, plug it in and accept the prompt. The server handles the USB connection automatically — no Wi-Fi needed.
Pick a layout and play
Choose a preset — racing, shooter or emulator — or build your own in the layout editor: drag, resize and place every control. Turn on gyro steering per layout if your game wants it. Rumble comes back from the game automatically.
When it doesn't connect
Almost every connection problem is one of these six. Work top to bottom.
Phone can't reach the PC
Make sure both devices are on the same Wi-Fi network. Guest and hotel networks often block device-to-device traffic (client isolation) — and phone hotspots usually block it too. A normal home router works.
Using a VPN?
VPNs (Surfshark, NordVPN and friends) reroute or block local traffic. Fully quit the VPN app on the PC — not just disconnect — then restart the server and scan the fresh QR.
Firewall blocked it
The installer adds a Windows Firewall rule that allows Gamepad Server on any network, so this is handled for you. If you used the standalone .exe instead and declined the prompt, just run the installer — or allow inbound UDP 7777–7786 for GamepadServer manually.
QR scans but nothing happens
The QR encodes your PC's network address. If the PC switched networks, restart the server to get a fresh QR. Also check Windows isn't treating your network as "Public" with device isolation turned on.
Driver didn't install
ViGEmBus needs that one-time Windows permission. Re-run the server and accept it, or install the driver manually from the official ViGEmBus releases page, then start the server again.
Game doesn't see the controller
The pad shows up as an Xbox 360 controller. Verify Windows sees it: press Win+R, run joy.cpl. On Steam, enable Xbox controller support under Settings → Controller.
Still stuck? Send us a ticket — we read every one. Contact support
Frequently asked
Get it from your favourite store
Beyond the direct download on this site, GamepadOS is officially published on the marketplaces below. Every listing is uploaded and maintained by our team, so whichever storefront you choose, you always receive the genuine app — with updates delivered through that store.
Prefer to install directly? The latest APK and PC server are always available from the download section — no store account required.