Hi! I'm guessing you're here because you want to jump on the server and start playing and ran into a snag getting things to work. This guide will try to cover as much as possible regarding installation and setup. If there's any questions or feedback, contact an Angel or Staff for help.
This guide will go through a step-by-step process and include some explanation or description when needed. Just follow the steps and everything should work fine!
Freelancer Setup
1. Uninstall EVERYTHING
What I mean by "everything" is anything freelancer install related. This causes the most problems for people. Other mods, changed Freelancer installs, or even older version of Discovery might cause issues. You need a clean install, so uninstall the base game, old mod versions or other mods.
2. Install Freelancer
Install the base game as is. Run it to make sure it installed correctly, then close it. You're ready to install the mod.
3. Computer Setup
For some people using older computers, this is a needed step. Make sure you have .net framework 4.0 or higher. If you don't or are not sure, download it here.
Make sure you only do this step AFTER the base Freelancer game is installed. This is the mod folder, so install it somewhere such as your Documents folder. Don't install it in the Freelancer game folder.
Run the downloaded executable file. Install Discovery to the default location or any location of your choosing. Once it is setup, go to your program list, find "Discovery Freelancer" and click on it. If you cannot find it, look for "DSLauncher.exe." in your install folder.
This is the launcher. At this step, you can press "launch game" at the top right to play!
Launcher
There is a lot you can use the launcher for. To get around the 5 character restriction, you can make and use multiple accounts which are listed on the main page.
This is the launcher. The middle section displays your accounts with name, discription, and off to the right (hidden) is the code and signature. Never share the code and signature with others unless you want them to have your account.
On the bottom left is the current activated account, and above it is an Import/Export button. Use this to save, share, or add accounts. It's highly recommended to backup your accounts. To the bottom right is a button called "Manage Account". This allows you to edit, create, or delete accounts. Be careful when doing this, because any changes or deletion is permanent.
On the top left you can see two tabs. The main page called "My Accounts and "Parameters". Parameters allows you to change a few settings. Hover over the different settings for a description.
Chat Log - Recommended ON
Append Logs - Recommended ON
Log Time - Recommended ON
The above settings allow you to have a file saved to your computer called "DSAce.txt" that can be used to save your chat logs from ingame, which can be useful if you want to post your RP on the forums or want to see what you discussed with others ingame. It shows any codes you type, so make sure to exclude any passwords from cash codes or move ship codes.
The bottom line called "Forced Arguments" is equal to setting run operations. You should see "-s188.40.133.201:2302" and a few like it by default. This is the server IP. This has to be in there for the DiscoveryGC 24/7 RP server to show up. You can add other servers here if needed.
This tutorial was made to help newer or even older players. If something seems off post a message here or PM an Angel and we will edit it to correct the mistakes.
Updated: 20th April 2015 for 4.88.1
Updated by @Miaou