This guide explains how to connect QSO Director to WSJT-X, JTDX, and WSJT-Z using UDP integration. By linking these applications, you can automatically transfer QSOs, enable real-time data sharing, and eliminate manual logging when operating digital modes such as FT8 and FT4.

Because JTDX and WSJT-Z are based on WSJT-X and use the same UDP communication protocol, the setup process is identical across all three applications making it quick and easy to get started with seamless, reliable logging.

What You'll Acheive

By the end of this guide, you will:

  • Automatically log WSJT-X, WSJT-Z or JTDX contacts into QSO Director
  • Enable real-time data sharing between applications
  • Reduce manual logging errors
  • Improve efficiency when operating digital modes

Digital Modes software such as WSJT-X, WSJT-Z or JTDX are widely used for weak-signal digital communication such as FT8 and FT4, making integration with logging software essential for smooth operation

Works With

Compatible Software

QSO Director is compatible with any software that uses the WSJT UDP Protocol including:

  • WSJT-X
  • JTDX
  • WSJT-Z
  • WSJT-X improved
  • JTDX Improved
  • MSHV

 

Compatible Modes

QSO Director is compatible with all digital modes including:

  • FST4
  • FT4
  • FT8
  • JT4
  • JT9
  • JT65
  • Q65
  • MSK144
  • WSPR
  • FST4W

Requirements

Before you begin, make sure you have:

  • QSO Director installed and running
  • WSJT-X, WSJT-Z or JTDX installed and configured
  • Both applications running on the same computer (recommended)
  • Basic WSJT-X, WSJT-Z or JTDX functionality working (receiving/transmitting)

Step 1: Enable UDP in WSJT-X, WSJT-Z or JTDX

WSJT-X, WSJT-Z and JTDX communicates with external software (like QSO Director) using UDP broadcasts.

  1. Open WSJT-X, WSJT-Z or JTDX
  2. Go to File → Settings
  3. Select the Reporting tab
  4. Set the following values:
    • UDP Server Address: 127.0.0.1 (localhost)
    • UDP Server Port: 2237 (default, or your preferred port)

This allows WSJT-X to send QSO data to other applications in real time.

WSJT-X Settings Screenshot

Screenshot from WSJT-X, JTDX and WSJT-Z are similar

You can use alternative IP Addresses and Port numbers to either avoid conflicts or if you are running WSJT-X, WSJT-Z or JTDX on a different machine but how to do this is beyond the scopt of this guide. QSO Director does support WSJT-X running on different ports and/or machines.

Step 2: Configure QSO Director

Now configure QSO Director to listen for WSJT-X data.

  1. Open QSO Director
  2. Navigate to File → Settings
  3. Select the Realtime Network
QSO Director Realtime Network Settings
  1. Click Add Listener
  2. A new Network Listener will appear
QSO Director WSJT Example Settings
  1. Enter a Friendly Name:
    • This is not critical for it's operation but provides a way for you to identify this network listener.
  2. Select the correct protocol:
    • Protocol: WSJT-X
  3. Enter the same port as WSJT-X, WSJT-Z or JTDX:
    • Port: 2237

The port must match exactly between both applications.
✕

Optionally you can also configure the more advanced controls for the IP addresses to use and to listen on. These are not neccesary if you are running WSJT-X, WSJT-Z or JTDX locally on the same machine as QSO Director

Only Listen On IP: Optional - If you only want QSO Director to listen on a specific IP Address you can enter it here. Leave blank unless you have a need for it.

Only Listen for IP: Optional - If you only want to receive data from a specific IP address you can enter it here. Leave blank unless you have a need for it.

Step 3: Configure what want to happen when QSO Director receives data from WSJT-X, WSJT-Z or JTDX

You can then choose what you would like to do when data is received from WSJT-X, WSJT-Z or JTDX.

QSO Director can:

Log a QSO when a new QSO is received

Add a local spot when a decode is received

Add a local spot when a QSO is received

Just tick the boxes next to the actions you want performed.

 

Finally, click "Ok" to save the settings and start enjoying your integration with WSJT-X, WSJT-Z or JTDX

Step 4: Test the connection

To confirm everything is working:

  1. Start WSJT-X, WSJT-Z or JTDX and QSO Director
  2. Make (or simulate) a QSO in WSJT-X, WSJT-Z or JTDX
  3. Check QSO Director:
    • The contact should appear automatically in your log

If successful, your systems are now fully connected.

Troubleshooting

If the connection isn’t working, check the following:

Common Issues

  • Port mismatch
    Ensure both apps use the same UDP port
  • Firewall blocking UDP traffic
    Allow WSJT-X, WSJT-Z or JTDX and QSO Director through your firewall
  • Incorrect IP address
    Use 127.0.0.1 for local setups
  • Multiple WSJT-X instances
    Ensure only one instance is using the configured port

Tips for Best Performance

  • Keep both applications updated
  • Use default ports unless you have conflicts
  • Avoid running multiple logging apps on the same UDP port
  • Test with a live QSO to confirm real-time logging

Connecting QSO Director to WSJT-X, WSJT-Z or JTDX is a quick setup that delivers major benefits:

  • Automatic QSO logging
  • Real-time data integration
  • Improved digital mode workflow

Once configured, you can focus on making contacts instead of managing logs manually.