diff --git a/data/language/en-GB.txt b/data/language/en-GB.txt
index 0102bca7d7..0eaa1171dd 100644
--- a/data/language/en-GB.txt
+++ b/data/language/en-GB.txt
@@ -3838,3 +3838,4 @@ STR_7005    :Drag an area of footpath
 STR_7006    :Draw border around image buttons
 STR_7007    :Ride Type
 STR_7008    :Unknown ride type ({INT32})
+STR_7009    :Receiving scripts…
diff --git a/distribution/changelog.txt b/distribution/changelog.txt
index a3c5e18f5b..e4fc56fadc 100644
--- a/distribution/changelog.txt
+++ b/distribution/changelog.txt
@@ -2,6 +2,7 @@
 ------------------------------------------------------------------------
 - Improved: [#25529] The map selection grid no longer redraws every frame if it has not changed.
 - Improved: [#25530] Wall dragging can now be cancelled without closing the Scenery window.
+- Improved: [#25575] Updated the network protocol to a new format that supports larger packets, allowing clients to connect reliably to servers with many objects or large maps.
 - Change: [#25485] Make the enlarged pressed swatch sprite more pronounced.
 - Fix: [#22484] Lingering ghost entrance after placing park entrance.
 - Fix: [#24952] Duplicate track designs when running via Steam without having RCT1 linked.
diff --git a/src/openrct2/Context.cpp b/src/openrct2/Context.cpp
index 78867e2f83..7df72e4dfa 100644
--- a/src/openrct2/Context.cpp
+++ b/src/openrct2/Context.cpp
@@ -1299,6 +1299,8 @@ namespace OpenRCT2
 
             UpdateTimeAccumulators(deltaTime);
 
+            Network::Update();
+
             if (useVariableFrame)
             {
                 RunVariableFrame(deltaTime);
@@ -1307,6 +1309,8 @@ namespace OpenRCT2
             {
                 RunFixedFrame(deltaTime);
             }
+
+            Network::Flush();
         }
 
         void UpdateTimeAccumulators(float deltaTime)
@@ -1332,7 +1336,7 @@ namespace OpenRCT2
 
             if (_ticksAccumulator < kGameUpdateTimeMS)
             {
-                const auto sleepTimeSec = (kGameUpdateTimeMS - _ticksAccumulator);
+                const auto sleepTimeSec = std::min(kNetworkUpdateTimeMS, kGameUpdateTimeMS - _ticksAccumulator);
                 Platform::Sleep(static_cast<uint32_t>(sleepTimeSec * 1000.f));
                 return;
             }
diff --git a/src/openrct2/Game.h b/src/openrct2/Game.h
index 9b08cf16c3..308b0e2247 100644
--- a/src/openrct2/Game.h
+++ b/src/openrct2/Game.h
@@ -26,6 +26,11 @@ namespace OpenRCT2
     // The maximum threshold to advance.
     constexpr float kGameUpdateMaxThreshold = kGameUpdateTimeMS * kGameMaxUpdates;
 
+    // The network update runs at a different rate to the game update.
+    constexpr uint32_t kNetworkUpdateFPS = 140;
+    // The network update interval in milliseconds, (1000 / 140fps) = ~7.14ms
+    constexpr float kNetworkUpdateTimeMS = 1.0f / kNetworkUpdateFPS;
+
     constexpr float kGameMinTimeScale = 0.1f;
     constexpr float kGameMaxTimeScale = 5.0f;
 } // namespace OpenRCT2
diff --git a/src/openrct2/GameState.cpp b/src/openrct2/GameState.cpp
index d8ec67127b..3de0e5b5a1 100644
--- a/src/openrct2/GameState.cpp
+++ b/src/openrct2/GameState.cpp
@@ -173,7 +173,7 @@ namespace OpenRCT2
                 getGameState().entities.UpdateMoneyEffect();
 
                 // Post-tick network update
-                Network::ProcessPending();
+                Network::PostTick();
 
                 // Post-tick game actions.
                 GameActions::ProcessQueue();
@@ -181,6 +181,12 @@ namespace OpenRCT2
             }
         }
 
+        // Network has to always tick.
+        if (numUpdates == 0)
+        {
+            Network::Tick();
+        }
+
         // Update the game one or more times
         for (uint32_t i = 0; i < numUpdates; i++)
         {
@@ -251,7 +257,7 @@ namespace OpenRCT2
 
         GetContext()->GetReplayManager()->Update();
 
-        Network::Update();
+        Network::Tick();
 
         auto& gameState = getGameState();
 
@@ -344,7 +350,7 @@ namespace OpenRCT2
 
         GameActions::ProcessQueue();
 
-        Network::ProcessPending();
+        Network::PostTick();
         Network::Flush();
 
         gameState.currentTicks++;
diff --git a/src/openrct2/localisation/StringIds.h b/src/openrct2/localisation/StringIds.h
index a9276c20f3..b1fedb852c 100644
--- a/src/openrct2/localisation/StringIds.h
+++ b/src/openrct2/localisation/StringIds.h
@@ -1575,6 +1575,7 @@ enum : StringId
     STR_UNKNOWN_RIDE = 6375,
 
     STR_MULTIPLAYER_RECEIVING_OBJECTS_LIST = 6378,
+    STR_MULTIPLAYER_RECEIVING_SCRIPTS = 7009,
 
     STR_MULTIPLAYER_RECEIVED_INVALID_DATA = 6379,
 
diff --git a/src/openrct2/network/Network.h b/src/openrct2/network/Network.h
index 3f620669b0..3f4fd9d5e0 100644
--- a/src/openrct2/network/Network.h
+++ b/src/openrct2/network/Network.h
@@ -53,7 +53,8 @@ namespace OpenRCT2::Network
     void SendTick();
     bool GamestateSnapshotsEnabled();
     void Update();
-    void ProcessPending();
+    void Tick();
+    void PostTick();
     void Flush();
 
     [[nodiscard]] Auth GetAuthstatus();
diff --git a/src/openrct2/network/NetworkBase.cpp b/src/openrct2/network/NetworkBase.cpp
index 4b4b963c2d..415a5ca3e5 100644
--- a/src/openrct2/network/NetworkBase.cpp
+++ b/src/openrct2/network/NetworkBase.cpp
@@ -47,7 +47,7 @@
 // It is used for making sure only compatible builds get connected, even within
 // single OpenRCT2 version.
 
-constexpr uint8_t kStreamVersion = 1;
+constexpr uint8_t kStreamVersion = 2;
 
 const std::string kStreamID = std::string(kOpenRCT2Version) + "-" + std::to_string(kStreamVersion);
 
@@ -62,7 +62,7 @@ static constexpr uint32_t kChunkSize = 1024 * 63;
 
 // If data is sent fast enough it would halt the entire server, process only a maximum amount.
 // This limit is per connection, the current value was determined by tests with fuzzing.
-static constexpr uint32_t kMaxPacketsPerUpdate = 100;
+static constexpr uint32_t kMaxPacketsPerTick = 100;
 
     #include "../Cheats.h"
     #include "../ParkImporter.h"
@@ -119,6 +119,7 @@ namespace OpenRCT2::Network
         _actionId = 0;
 
         client_command_handlers[Command::auth] = &NetworkBase::Client_Handle_AUTH;
+        client_command_handlers[Command::beginMap] = &NetworkBase::Client_Handle_BEGINMAP;
         client_command_handlers[Command::map] = &NetworkBase::Client_Handle_MAP;
         client_command_handlers[Command::chat] = &NetworkBase::Client_Handle_CHAT;
         client_command_handlers[Command::gameAction] = &NetworkBase::Client_Handle_GAME_ACTION;
@@ -134,7 +135,6 @@ namespace OpenRCT2::Network
         client_command_handlers[Command::gameInfo] = &NetworkBase::Client_Handle_GAMEINFO;
         client_command_handlers[Command::token] = &NetworkBase::Client_Handle_TOKEN;
         client_command_handlers[Command::objectsList] = &NetworkBase::Client_Handle_OBJECTS_LIST;
-        client_command_handlers[Command::scriptsHeader] = &NetworkBase::Client_Handle_SCRIPTS_HEADER;
         client_command_handlers[Command::scriptsData] = &NetworkBase::Client_Handle_SCRIPTS_DATA;
         client_command_handlers[Command::gameState] = &NetworkBase::Client_Handle_GAMESTATE;
 
@@ -463,6 +463,21 @@ namespace OpenRCT2::Network
     }
 
     void NetworkBase::Update()
+    {
+        switch (GetMode())
+        {
+            case Mode::server:
+                UpdateServer();
+                break;
+            case Mode::client:
+                UpdateClient();
+                break;
+            default:
+                break;
+        }
+    }
+
+    void NetworkBase::Tick()
     {
         _closeLock = true;
 
@@ -474,10 +489,10 @@ namespace OpenRCT2::Network
         switch (GetMode())
         {
             case Mode::server:
-                UpdateServer();
+                TickServer();
                 break;
             case Mode::client:
-                UpdateClient();
+                TickClient();
                 break;
             default:
                 break;
@@ -511,6 +526,18 @@ namespace OpenRCT2::Network
     }
 
     void NetworkBase::UpdateServer()
+    {
+        for (auto& connection : client_connection_list)
+        {
+            // This can be called multiple times before the connection is removed.
+            if (!connection->IsValid())
+                continue;
+
+            connection->update();
+        }
+    }
+
+    void NetworkBase::TickServer()
     {
         for (auto& connection : client_connection_list)
         {
@@ -520,6 +547,7 @@ namespace OpenRCT2::Network
 
             if (!ProcessConnection(*connection))
             {
+                LOG_INFO("Disconnecting player %s", connection->player->Name.c_str());
                 connection->Disconnect();
             }
             else
@@ -548,6 +576,11 @@ namespace OpenRCT2::Network
     }
 
     void NetworkBase::UpdateClient()
+    {
+        _serverConnection->update();
+    }
+
+    void NetworkBase::TickClient()
     {
         assert(_serverConnection != nullptr);
 
@@ -594,7 +627,6 @@ namespace OpenRCT2::Network
                     case SocketStatus::connected:
                     {
                         status = Status::connected;
-                        _serverConnection->ResetLastPacketTime();
                         Client_Send_TOKEN();
                         char str_authenticating[256];
                         FormatStringLegacy(str_authenticating, 256, STR_MULTIPLAYER_AUTHENTICATING, nullptr);
@@ -1319,44 +1351,39 @@ namespace OpenRCT2::Network
     {
         LOG_VERBOSE("Server sends objects list with %u items", objects.size());
 
-        if (objects.empty())
-        {
-            Packet packet(Command::objectsList);
-            packet << static_cast<uint32_t>(0) << static_cast<uint32_t>(objects.size());
+        Packet packet(Command::objectsList);
 
-            connection.QueuePacket(std::move(packet));
-        }
-        else
+        // Count.
+        packet << static_cast<uint32_t>(objects.size());
+
+        // List
+        for (size_t i = 0; i < objects.size(); ++i)
         {
-            for (size_t i = 0; i < objects.size(); ++i)
+            const auto* object = objects[i];
+
+            if (object->Identifier.empty())
             {
-                const auto* object = objects[i];
-
-                Packet packet(Command::objectsList);
-                packet << static_cast<uint32_t>(i) << static_cast<uint32_t>(objects.size());
-
-                if (object->Identifier.empty())
-                {
-                    // DAT
-                    LOG_VERBOSE("Object %.8s (checksum %x)", object->ObjectEntry.name, object->ObjectEntry.checksum);
-                    packet << static_cast<uint8_t>(0);
-                    packet.Write(&object->ObjectEntry, sizeof(RCTObjectEntry));
-                }
-                else
-                {
-                    // JSON
-                    LOG_VERBOSE("Object %s", object->Identifier.c_str());
-                    packet << static_cast<uint8_t>(1);
-                    packet.WriteString(object->Identifier);
-                }
-
-                connection.QueuePacket(std::move(packet));
+                // DAT
+                LOG_VERBOSE("Object %.8s (checksum %x)", object->ObjectEntry.name, object->ObjectEntry.checksum);
+                packet << static_cast<uint8_t>(0);
+                packet.Write(&object->ObjectEntry, sizeof(RCTObjectEntry));
+            }
+            else
+            {
+                // JSON
+                LOG_VERBOSE("Object %s", object->Identifier.c_str());
+                packet << static_cast<uint8_t>(1);
+                packet.WriteString(object->Identifier);
             }
         }
+
+        connection.QueuePacket(std::move(packet));
     }
 
     void NetworkBase::ServerSendScripts(Connection& connection)
     {
+        Packet packet(Command::scriptsData);
+
     #ifdef ENABLE_SCRIPTING
         using namespace OpenRCT2::Scripting;
 
@@ -1366,45 +1393,21 @@ namespace OpenRCT2::Network
         const auto remotePlugins = scriptEngine.GetRemotePlugins();
         LOG_VERBOSE("Server sends %zu scripts", remotePlugins.size());
 
-        // Build the data contents for each plugin.
-        MemoryStream pluginData;
+        packet << static_cast<uint32_t>(remotePlugins.size());
+
         for (auto& plugin : remotePlugins)
         {
             const auto& code = plugin->GetCode();
-
             const auto codeSize = static_cast<uint32_t>(code.size());
-            pluginData.WriteValue(codeSize);
-            pluginData.WriteArray(code.c_str(), code.size());
+
+            packet << codeSize;
+            packet.Write(code.c_str(), code.size());
         }
-
-        // Send the header packet.
-        Packet packetScriptHeader(Command::scriptsHeader);
-        packetScriptHeader << static_cast<uint32_t>(remotePlugins.size());
-        packetScriptHeader << static_cast<uint32_t>(pluginData.GetLength());
-        connection.QueuePacket(std::move(packetScriptHeader));
-
-        // Segment the plugin data into chunks and send them.
-        const uint8_t* pluginDataBuffer = static_cast<const uint8_t*>(pluginData.GetData());
-        uint32_t dataOffset = 0;
-        while (dataOffset < pluginData.GetLength())
-        {
-            const uint32_t chunkSize = std::min<uint32_t>(pluginData.GetLength() - dataOffset, kChunkSize);
-
-            Packet packet(Command::scriptsData);
-            packet << chunkSize;
-            packet.Write(pluginDataBuffer + dataOffset, chunkSize);
-
-            connection.QueuePacket(std::move(packet));
-
-            dataOffset += chunkSize;
-        }
-        Guard::Assert(dataOffset == pluginData.GetLength());
-
     #else
-        Packet packetScriptHeader(Command::scriptsHeader);
-        packetScriptHeader << static_cast<uint32_t>(0u);
-        packetScriptHeader << static_cast<uint32_t>(0u);
+        packet << static_cast<uint32_t>(0);
     #endif
+
+        connection.QueuePacket(std::move(packet));
     }
 
     void NetworkBase::Client_Send_HEARTBEAT(Connection& connection) const
@@ -1472,8 +1475,8 @@ namespace OpenRCT2::Network
             objects = objManager.GetPackableObjects();
         }
 
-        auto header = SaveForNetwork(objects);
-        if (header.empty())
+        auto mapContent = SaveForNetwork(objects);
+        if (mapContent.empty())
         {
             if (connection != nullptr)
             {
@@ -1482,21 +1485,21 @@ namespace OpenRCT2::Network
             }
             return;
         }
-        size_t chunksize = kChunkSize;
-        for (size_t i = 0; i < header.size(); i += chunksize)
+
+        Packet packetBeginMap(Command::beginMap);
+
+        Packet packetMap(Command::map);
+        packetMap.Write(mapContent.data(), mapContent.size());
+
+        if (connection != nullptr)
         {
-            size_t datasize = std::min(chunksize, header.size() - i);
-            Packet packet(Command::map);
-            packet << static_cast<uint32_t>(header.size()) << static_cast<uint32_t>(i);
-            packet.Write(&header[i], datasize);
-            if (connection != nullptr)
-            {
-                connection->QueuePacket(std::move(packet));
-            }
-            else
-            {
-                SendPacketToClients(packet);
-            }
+            connection->QueuePacket(std::move(packetBeginMap));
+            connection->QueuePacket(std::move(packetMap));
+        }
+        else
+        {
+            SendPacketToClients(packetBeginMap);
+            SendPacketToClients(packetMap);
         }
     }
 
@@ -1740,6 +1743,56 @@ namespace OpenRCT2::Network
         SendPacketToClients(packet);
     }
 
+    bool NetworkBase::UpdateConnection(Connection& connection)
+    {
+        connection.update();
+
+        return connection.IsValid();
+    }
+
+    static void displayNetworkProgress(StringId captionStringId)
+    {
+        auto captionString = GetContext()->GetLocalisationService().GetString(captionStringId);
+        auto intent = Intent(INTENT_ACTION_PROGRESS_OPEN);
+        intent.PutExtra(INTENT_EXTRA_MESSAGE, captionString);
+        intent.PutExtra(INTENT_EXTRA_CALLBACK, []() -> void {
+            LOG_INFO("User aborted network operation");
+            OpenRCT2::GetContext()->GetNetwork().Close();
+        });
+        ContextOpenIntent(&intent);
+    }
+
+    static void reportPacketProgress(NetworkBase& network, Connection& connection)
+    {
+        if (network.GetMode() != Mode::client)
+        {
+            return;
+        }
+
+        const auto nextPacketCommand = connection.getPendingPacketCommand();
+        const auto bytesReceived = connection.getPendingPacketAvailable();
+        const auto bytesTotal = connection.getPendingPacketSize();
+
+        switch (nextPacketCommand)
+        {
+            case Command::objectsList:
+                displayNetworkProgress(STR_MULTIPLAYER_RECEIVING_OBJECTS_LIST);
+                break;
+            case Command::map:
+                displayNetworkProgress(STR_MULTIPLAYER_DOWNLOADING_MAP);
+                break;
+            case Command::scriptsData:
+                displayNetworkProgress(STR_MULTIPLAYER_RECEIVING_SCRIPTS);
+                break;
+            default:
+                // Nothing to report.
+                return;
+        }
+
+        network.GetContext().SetProgress(
+            static_cast<uint32_t>(bytesReceived), static_cast<uint32_t>(bytesTotal), STR_STRING_M_OF_N_KIB);
+    }
+
     bool NetworkBase::ProcessConnection(Connection& connection)
     {
         ReadPacket packetStatus;
@@ -1760,6 +1813,7 @@ namespace OpenRCT2::Network
                     return false;
                 case ReadPacket::success:
                     // done reading in packet
+                    reportPacketProgress(*this, connection);
                     ProcessPacket(connection, connection.InboundPacket);
                     if (!connection.IsValid())
                     {
@@ -1768,15 +1822,20 @@ namespace OpenRCT2::Network
                     break;
                 case ReadPacket::moreData:
                     // more data required to be read
+                    reportPacketProgress(*this, connection);
                     break;
                 case ReadPacket::noData:
                     // could not read anything from socket
                     break;
             }
-        } while (packetStatus == ReadPacket::success && countProcessed < kMaxPacketsPerUpdate);
+        } while (packetStatus == ReadPacket::success && countProcessed < kMaxPacketsPerTick);
 
-        if (!connection.ReceivedPacketRecently())
+        if (!connection.ReceivedDataRecently())
         {
+            LOG_INFO(
+                "No data received recently from connection %s, disconnecting connection.",
+                connection.Socket->GetIpAddress().c_str());
+
             if (!connection.GetLastDisconnectReason())
             {
                 connection.SetLastDisconnectReason(STR_MULTIPLAYER_NO_DATA);
@@ -1812,7 +1871,7 @@ namespace OpenRCT2::Network
     }
 
     // This is called at the end of each game tick, this where things should be processed that affects the game state.
-    void NetworkBase::ProcessPending()
+    void NetworkBase::PostTick()
     {
         if (GetMode() == Mode::server)
         {
@@ -2302,8 +2361,7 @@ namespace OpenRCT2::Network
 
     void NetworkBase::ServerHandleHeartbeat(Connection& connection, Packet& packet)
     {
-        LOG_VERBOSE("Client %s heartbeat", connection.Socket->GetHostName());
-        connection.ResetLastPacketTime();
+        LOG_VERBOSE("Client %s heartbeat", connection.Socket->GetIpAddress().c_str());
     }
 
     void NetworkBase::Client_Handle_AUTH(Connection& connection, Packet& packet)
@@ -2392,34 +2450,17 @@ namespace OpenRCT2::Network
         ServerSendToken(connection);
     }
 
-    static void OpenNetworkProgress(StringId captionStringId)
-    {
-        auto captionString = GetContext()->GetLocalisationService().GetString(captionStringId);
-        auto intent = Intent(INTENT_ACTION_PROGRESS_OPEN);
-        intent.PutExtra(INTENT_EXTRA_MESSAGE, captionString);
-        intent.PutExtra(INTENT_EXTRA_CALLBACK, []() -> void { OpenRCT2::GetContext()->GetNetwork().Close(); });
-        ContextOpenIntent(&intent);
-    }
-
     void NetworkBase::Client_Handle_OBJECTS_LIST(Connection& connection, Packet& packet)
     {
         auto& repo = GetContext().GetObjectRepository();
 
-        uint32_t index = 0;
-        uint32_t totalObjects = 0;
-        packet >> index >> totalObjects;
+        uint32_t objectCount{};
+        packet >> objectCount;
 
-        static constexpr uint32_t kObjectStartIndex = 0;
-        if (index == kObjectStartIndex)
+        std::vector<ObjectEntryDescriptor> missingObjects;
+
+        for (uint32_t i = 0; i < objectCount; ++i)
         {
-            _missingObjects.clear();
-        }
-
-        if (totalObjects > 0)
-        {
-            OpenNetworkProgress(STR_MULTIPLAYER_RECEIVING_OBJECTS_LIST);
-            GetContext().SetProgress(index + 1, totalObjects);
-
             uint8_t objectType{};
             packet >> objectType;
 
@@ -2434,7 +2475,7 @@ namespace OpenRCT2::Network
                     {
                         auto objectName = std::string(entry->GetName());
                         LOG_VERBOSE("Requesting object %s with checksum %x from server", objectName.c_str(), entry->checksum);
-                        _missingObjects.push_back(ObjectEntryDescriptor(*entry));
+                        missingObjects.push_back(ObjectEntryDescriptor(*entry));
                     }
                     else if (object->ObjectEntry.checksum != entry->checksum || object->ObjectEntry.flags != entry->flags)
                     {
@@ -2456,69 +2497,35 @@ namespace OpenRCT2::Network
                     {
                         auto objectName = std::string(identifier);
                         LOG_VERBOSE("Requesting object %s from server", objectName.c_str());
-                        _missingObjects.push_back(ObjectEntryDescriptor(objectName));
+                        missingObjects.push_back(ObjectEntryDescriptor(objectName));
                     }
                 }
             }
         }
 
-        if (index + 1 >= totalObjects)
-        {
-            LOG_VERBOSE("client received object list, it has %u entries", totalObjects);
-            Client_Send_MAPREQUEST(_missingObjects);
-            _missingObjects.clear();
-        }
-    }
-
-    void NetworkBase::Client_Handle_SCRIPTS_HEADER(Connection& connection, Packet& packet)
-    {
-        uint32_t numScripts{};
-        uint32_t dataSize{};
-        packet >> numScripts >> dataSize;
-
-    #ifdef ENABLE_SCRIPTING
-        _serverScriptsData.data.Clear();
-        _serverScriptsData.pluginCount = numScripts;
-        _serverScriptsData.dataSize = dataSize;
-    #else
-        if (numScripts > 0)
-        {
-            connection.SetLastDisconnectReason("The client requires plugin support.");
-            Close();
-        }
-    #endif
+        LOG_VERBOSE("client received object list, it has %u entries, %zu missing", objectCount, missingObjects.size());
+        Client_Send_MAPREQUEST(missingObjects);
     }
 
     void NetworkBase::Client_Handle_SCRIPTS_DATA(Connection& connection, Packet& packet)
     {
     #ifdef ENABLE_SCRIPTING
-        uint32_t dataSize{};
-        packet >> dataSize;
-        Guard::Assert(dataSize > 0);
+        auto& scriptEngine = GetContext().GetScriptEngine();
 
-        const auto* data = packet.Read(dataSize);
-        Guard::Assert(data != nullptr);
+        uint32_t count{};
+        packet >> count;
 
-        auto& scriptsData = _serverScriptsData.data;
-        scriptsData.Write(data, dataSize);
-
-        if (scriptsData.GetLength() == _serverScriptsData.dataSize)
+        for (uint32_t i = 0; i < count; ++i)
         {
-            auto& scriptEngine = GetContext().GetScriptEngine();
+            uint32_t codeSize{};
+            packet >> codeSize;
 
-            scriptsData.SetPosition(0);
-            for (uint32_t i = 0; i < _serverScriptsData.pluginCount; ++i)
-            {
-                const auto codeSize = scriptsData.ReadValue<uint32_t>();
-                const auto scriptData = scriptsData.ReadArray<char>(codeSize);
+            const uint8_t* scriptData = packet.Read(codeSize);
 
-                auto code = std::string_view(reinterpret_cast<const char*>(scriptData.get()), codeSize);
-                scriptEngine.AddNetworkPlugin(code);
-            }
-            Guard::Assert(scriptsData.GetPosition() == scriptsData.GetLength());
+            auto code = std::string_view(reinterpret_cast<const char*>(scriptData), codeSize);
+            scriptEngine.AddNetworkPlugin(code);
 
-            // Empty the current buffer.
-            _serverScriptsData = {};
+            LOG_VERBOSE("Received and loaded network script plugin %u/%u", i + 1, count);
         }
     #else
         connection.SetLastDisconnectReason("The client requires plugin support.");
@@ -2768,84 +2775,59 @@ namespace OpenRCT2::Network
         }
     }
 
+    void NetworkBase::Client_Handle_BEGINMAP([[maybe_unused]] Connection& connection, Packet& packet)
+    {
+        // Start of a new map load, clear the queue now as we have to buffer them
+        // until the map is fully loaded.
+        GameActions::ClearQueue();
+        GameActions::SuspendQueue();
+
+        displayNetworkProgress(STR_LOADING_SAVED_GAME);
+    }
+
     void NetworkBase::Client_Handle_MAP([[maybe_unused]] Connection& connection, Packet& packet)
     {
-        uint32_t size, offset;
-        packet >> size >> offset;
-        int32_t chunksize = static_cast<int32_t>(packet.Header.Size - packet.BytesRead);
-        if (chunksize <= 0)
+        // Allow queue processing of game actions again.
+        GameActions::ResumeQueue();
+
+        // This prevents invoking the callback for when the window closes which would close the connection.
+        GetContext().CloseProgress();
+
+        GameUnloadScripts();
+        GameNotifyMapChange();
+
+        auto ms = MemoryStream(packet.Data.data(), packet.Data.size());
+        if (LoadMap(&ms))
         {
-            return;
+            GameLoadInit();
+            GameLoadScripts();
+            GameNotifyMapChanged();
+
+            // This seems wrong, we want to catch up to that tick so we shouldn't mess with this.
+            //_serverState.tick = getGameState().currentTicks;
+
+            _serverState.state = ServerStatus::ok;
+            _clientMapLoaded = true;
+            gFirstTimeSaving = true;
+
+            // Notify user he is now online and which shortcut key enables chat
+            ChatShowConnectedMessage();
+
+            // Fix invalid vehicle sprite sizes, thus preventing visual corruption of sprites
+            FixInvalidVehicleSpriteSizes();
+
+            // NOTE: Game actions are normally processed before processing the player list.
+            // Given that during map load game actions are buffered we have to process the
+            // player list first to have valid players for the queued game actions.
+            ProcessPlayerList();
         }
-        if (offset == 0)
+        else
         {
-            // Start of a new map load, clear the queue now as we have to buffer them
-            // until the map is fully loaded.
-            GameActions::ClearQueue();
-            GameActions::SuspendQueue();
+            // Something went wrong, game is not loaded. Return to main screen.
+            auto loadOrQuitAction = GameActions::LoadOrQuitAction(
+                GameActions::LoadOrQuitModes::OpenSavePrompt, PromptMode::saveBeforeQuit);
 
-            _serverTickData.clear();
-            _clientMapLoaded = false;
-
-            OpenNetworkProgress(STR_MULTIPLAYER_DOWNLOADING_MAP);
-        }
-        if (size > chunk_buffer.size())
-        {
-            chunk_buffer.resize(size);
-        }
-
-        const auto currentProgressKiB = (offset + chunksize) / 1024;
-        const auto totalSizeKiB = size / 1024;
-
-        GetContext().SetProgress(currentProgressKiB, totalSizeKiB, STR_STRING_M_OF_N_KIB);
-
-        std::memcpy(&chunk_buffer[offset], const_cast<void*>(static_cast<const void*>(packet.Read(chunksize))), chunksize);
-        if (offset + chunksize == size)
-        {
-            // Allow queue processing of game actions again.
-            GameActions::ResumeQueue();
-
-            ContextForceCloseWindowByClass(WindowClass::progressWindow);
-            GameUnloadScripts();
-            GameNotifyMapChange();
-
-            bool has_to_free = false;
-            uint8_t* data = &chunk_buffer[0];
-            size_t data_size = size;
-            auto ms = MemoryStream(data, data_size);
-            if (LoadMap(&ms))
-            {
-                GameLoadInit();
-                GameLoadScripts();
-                GameNotifyMapChanged();
-                _serverState.tick = getGameState().currentTicks;
-                // NetworkStatusOpen("Loaded new map from network");
-                _serverState.state = ServerStatus::ok;
-                _clientMapLoaded = true;
-                gFirstTimeSaving = true;
-
-                // Notify user he is now online and which shortcut key enables chat
-                ChatShowConnectedMessage();
-
-                // Fix invalid vehicle sprite sizes, thus preventing visual corruption of sprites
-                FixInvalidVehicleSpriteSizes();
-
-                // NOTE: Game actions are normally processed before processing the player list.
-                // Given that during map load game actions are buffered we have to process the
-                // player list first to have valid players for the queued game actions.
-                ProcessPlayerList();
-            }
-            else
-            {
-                // Something went wrong, game is not loaded. Return to main screen.
-                auto loadOrQuitAction = GameActions::LoadOrQuitAction(
-                    GameActions::LoadOrQuitModes::OpenSavePrompt, PromptMode::saveBeforeQuit);
-                GameActions::Execute(&loadOrQuitAction, getGameState());
-            }
-            if (has_to_free)
-            {
-                free(data);
-            }
+            loadOrQuitAction.Execute(getGameState());
         }
     }
 
@@ -2980,7 +2962,7 @@ namespace OpenRCT2::Network
         packet >> tick >> actionType;
 
         MemoryStream stream;
-        const size_t size = packet.Header.Size - packet.BytesRead;
+        const size_t size = packet.Header.size - packet.BytesRead;
         stream.WriteArray(packet.Read(size), size);
         stream.SetPosition(0);
 
@@ -3070,7 +3052,7 @@ namespace OpenRCT2::Network
         }
 
         DataSerialiser stream(false);
-        const size_t size = packet.Header.Size - packet.BytesRead;
+        const size_t size = packet.Header.size - packet.BytesRead;
         stream.GetStream().WriteArray(packet.Read(size), size);
         stream.GetStream().SetPosition(0);
 
@@ -3306,9 +3288,14 @@ namespace OpenRCT2::Network
         GetContext()->GetNetwork().Update();
     }
 
-    void ProcessPending()
+    void Tick()
     {
-        GetContext()->GetNetwork().ProcessPending();
+        GetContext()->GetNetwork().Tick();
+    }
+
+    void PostTick()
+    {
+        GetContext()->GetNetwork().PostTick();
     }
 
     void Flush()
@@ -4147,10 +4134,13 @@ namespace OpenRCT2::Network
     void SendGameAction(const GameActions::GameAction* action)
     {
     }
+    void Tick()
+    {
+    }
     void Update()
     {
     }
-    void ProcessPending()
+    void PostTick()
     {
     }
     int32_t BeginClient(const std::string& host, int32_t port)
diff --git a/src/openrct2/network/NetworkBase.h b/src/openrct2/network/NetworkBase.h
index fdf9b08f9a..006ab80a7e 100644
--- a/src/openrct2/network/NetworkBase.h
+++ b/src/openrct2/network/NetworkBase.h
@@ -11,6 +11,7 @@
 #include "NetworkTypes.h"
 #include "NetworkUser.h"
 
+#include <chrono>
 #include <fstream>
 #include <list>
 #include <memory>
@@ -37,10 +38,10 @@ namespace OpenRCT2::Network
         bool Init();
         void Close();
         uint32_t GetServerTick() const noexcept;
-        // FIXME: This is currently the wrong function to override in System, will be refactored later.
-        void Update() override final;
+        void Update() final;
+        void Tick() final;
         void Flush();
-        void ProcessPending();
+        void PostTick() final;
         void ProcessPlayerList();
         auto GetPlayerIteratorByID(uint8_t id) const;
         auto GetGroupIteratorByID(uint8_t id) const;
@@ -61,6 +62,7 @@ namespace OpenRCT2::Network
         void CloseConnection();
         Player* AddPlayer(const std::string& name, const std::string& keyhash);
         void ProcessPacket(Connection& connection, Packet& packet);
+        bool UpdateConnection(Connection& connection);
 
     public: // Server
         Connection* GetPlayerConnection(uint8_t id) const;
@@ -81,6 +83,7 @@ namespace OpenRCT2::Network
         void SetupDefaultGroups();
         void RemovePlayer(std::unique_ptr<Connection>& connection);
         void UpdateServer();
+        void TickServer();
         void ServerClientDisconnected(std::unique_ptr<Connection>& connection);
         bool SaveMap(IStream* stream, const std::vector<const ObjectRepositoryItem*>& objects) const;
         std::vector<uint8_t> SaveForNetwork(const std::vector<const ObjectRepositoryItem*>& objects) const;
@@ -136,6 +139,7 @@ namespace OpenRCT2::Network
         void ServerClientDisconnected();
         bool LoadMap(IStream* stream);
         void UpdateClient();
+        void TickClient();
 
         // Packet dispatchers.
         void Client_Send_RequestGameState(uint32_t tick);
@@ -152,6 +156,7 @@ namespace OpenRCT2::Network
 
         // Handlers.
         void Client_Handle_AUTH(Connection& connection, Packet& packet);
+        void Client_Handle_BEGINMAP([[maybe_unused]] Connection& connection, Packet& packet);
         void Client_Handle_MAP(Connection& connection, Packet& packet);
         void Client_Handle_CHAT(Connection& connection, Packet& packet);
         void Client_Handle_GAME_ACTION(Connection& connection, Packet& packet);
@@ -167,10 +172,8 @@ namespace OpenRCT2::Network
         void Client_Handle_EVENT(Connection& connection, Packet& packet);
         void Client_Handle_TOKEN(Connection& connection, Packet& packet);
         void Client_Handle_OBJECTS_LIST(Connection& connection, Packet& packet);
-        void Client_Handle_SCRIPTS_HEADER(Connection& connection, Packet& packet);
         void Client_Handle_SCRIPTS_DATA(Connection& connection, Packet& packet);
         void Client_Handle_GAMESTATE(Connection& connection, Packet& packet);
-
         std::vector<uint8_t> _challenge;
         std::map<uint32_t, GameActions::GameAction::Callback_t> _gameActionCallbacks;
         Key _key;
@@ -190,7 +193,6 @@ namespace OpenRCT2::Network
     private: // Common Data
         using CommandHandler = void (NetworkBase::*)(Connection& connection, Packet& packet);
 
-        std::vector<uint8_t> chunk_buffer;
         std::ofstream _chat_log_fs;
         uint32_t _lastUpdateTime = 0;
         uint32_t _currentDeltaTime = 0;
@@ -223,19 +225,11 @@ namespace OpenRCT2::Network
             std::string spriteHash;
         };
 
-        struct ServerScriptsData
-        {
-            uint32_t pluginCount{};
-            uint32_t dataSize{};
-            MemoryStream data;
-        };
-
         std::unordered_map<Command, CommandHandler> client_command_handlers;
         std::unique_ptr<Connection> _serverConnection;
         std::map<uint32_t, PlayerListUpdate> _pendingPlayerLists;
         std::multimap<uint32_t, Player> _pendingPlayerInfo;
         std::map<uint32_t, ServerTickData> _serverTickData;
-        std::vector<ObjectEntryDescriptor> _missingObjects;
         std::string _host;
         std::string _chatLogPath;
         std::string _chatLogFilenameFormat = "%Y%m%d-%H%M%S.txt";
@@ -252,7 +246,6 @@ namespace OpenRCT2::Network
         SocketStatus _lastConnectStatus = SocketStatus::closed;
         bool _requireReconnect = false;
         bool _clientMapLoaded = false;
-        ServerScriptsData _serverScriptsData{};
     };
 } // namespace OpenRCT2::Network
 
diff --git a/src/openrct2/network/NetworkConnection.cpp b/src/openrct2/network/NetworkConnection.cpp
index 2e86d59a5c..36fd6866d7 100644
--- a/src/openrct2/network/NetworkConnection.cpp
+++ b/src/openrct2/network/NetworkConnection.cpp
@@ -11,6 +11,8 @@
 
     #include "NetworkConnection.h"
 
+    #include "../Diagnostic.h"
+    #include "../core/Diagnostics.hpp"
     #include "../core/String.hpp"
     #include "../localisation/Formatting.h"
     #include "../platform/Platform.h"
@@ -22,42 +24,80 @@
 namespace OpenRCT2::Network
 {
     static constexpr size_t kDisconnectReasonBufSize = 256;
-    static constexpr size_t kBufferSize = (1024 * 64) - 1; // 64 KiB, maximum packet size.
-    #ifndef DEBUG
-    static constexpr size_t kNoDataTimeout = 20; // Seconds.
-    #endif
-
-    static_assert(kBufferSize <= std::numeric_limits<uint16_t>::max(), "kBufferSize too big, uint16_t is max.");
+    static constexpr size_t kBufferSize = 1024 * 128; // 128 KiB.
+    static constexpr size_t kNoDataTimeout = 40;      // Seconds.
 
     Connection::Connection() noexcept
     {
-        ResetLastPacketTime();
+        _lastReceiveTime = Platform::GetTicks();
+    }
+
+    void Connection::update()
+    {
+        if (!IsValid())
+        {
+            return;
+        }
+
+        receiveData();
+        SendQueuedData();
+    }
+
+    void Connection::receiveData()
+    {
+        uint8_t buffer[kBufferSize];
+        size_t bytesRead = 0;
+
+        ReadPacket status = Socket->ReceiveData(buffer, sizeof(buffer), &bytesRead);
+        if (status == ReadPacket::disconnected)
+        {
+            Disconnect();
+            return;
+        }
+
+        if (status == ReadPacket::success)
+        {
+            _lastReceiveTime = Platform::GetTicks();
+            _inboundBuffer.insert(_inboundBuffer.end(), buffer, buffer + bytesRead);
+        }
     }
 
     ReadPacket Connection::readPacket()
     {
-        size_t bytesRead = 0;
+        uint32_t magic = 0;
 
-        // Read packet header.
-        auto& header = InboundPacket.Header;
-        if (InboundPacket.BytesTransferred < sizeof(InboundPacket.Header))
+        // Check if we have enough data for the magic.
+        if (_inboundBuffer.size() < sizeof(magic))
         {
-            const size_t missingLength = sizeof(header) - InboundPacket.BytesTransferred;
+            return ReadPacket::moreData;
+        }
 
-            uint8_t* buffer = reinterpret_cast<uint8_t*>(&InboundPacket.Header);
+        // Read magic.
+        std::memcpy(&magic, _inboundBuffer.data(), sizeof(magic));
 
-            ReadPacket status = Socket->ReceiveData(buffer, missingLength, &bytesRead);
-            if (status != ReadPacket::success)
-            {
-                return status;
-            }
+        size_t totalPacketLength = 0;
+        size_t headerSize = 0;
 
-            InboundPacket.BytesTransferred += bytesRead;
-            if (InboundPacket.BytesTransferred < sizeof(InboundPacket.Header))
-            {
-                // If still not enough data for header, keep waiting.
-                return ReadPacket::moreData;
-            }
+        magic = Convert::NetworkToHost(magic);
+        if (magic == PacketHeader::kMagic)
+        {
+            // New format.
+            auto& header = InboundPacket.Header;
+            std::memcpy(&header, _inboundBuffer.data(), sizeof(header));
+
+            header.magic = magic;
+            header.version = Convert::NetworkToHost(header.version);
+            header.size = Convert::NetworkToHost(header.size);
+            header.id = Convert::NetworkToHost(header.id);
+
+            headerSize = sizeof(header);
+            totalPacketLength = sizeof(header) + header.size;
+        }
+        else
+        {
+            // Legacy format.
+            PacketLegacyHeader header{};
+            std::memcpy(&header, _inboundBuffer.data(), sizeof(header));
 
             // Normalise values.
             header.Size = Convert::NetworkToHost(header.Size);
@@ -65,61 +105,81 @@ namespace OpenRCT2::Network
 
             // NOTE: For compatibility reasons for the master server we need to remove sizeof(Header.Id) from the size.
             // Previously the Id field was not part of the header rather part of the body.
-            header.Size -= std::min<uint16_t>(header.Size, sizeof(header.Id));
+            // We correct the size to have only the length of the body.
+            if (header.Size < sizeof(header.Id))
+            {
+                // This is a malformed packet, disconnect.
+                LOG_INFO(
+                    "Received malformed packet (size: %u) from {%s}, disconnecting.", header.Size,
+                    Socket->GetIpAddress().c_str());
 
-            // Fall-through: Read rest of packet.
+                Disconnect();
+                return ReadPacket::disconnected;
+            }
+
+            header.Size -= sizeof(header.Id);
+
+            // Fill in new header format.
+            InboundPacket.Header.magic = PacketHeader::kMagic;
+            InboundPacket.Header.size = header.Size;
+            InboundPacket.Header.id = header.Id;
+
+            headerSize = sizeof(header);
+            totalPacketLength = sizeof(header) + header.Size;
+
+            _isLegacyProtocol = true;
+        }
+
+        if (_inboundBuffer.size() < totalPacketLength)
+        {
+            InboundPacket.BytesTransferred = _inboundBuffer.size();
+            return ReadPacket::moreData;
         }
 
         // Read packet body.
-        {
-            // NOTE: BytesTransfered includes the header length, this will not underflow.
-            const size_t missingLength = header.Size - (InboundPacket.BytesTransferred - sizeof(header));
+        InboundPacket.BytesTransferred = totalPacketLength;
+        InboundPacket.Write(_inboundBuffer.data() + headerSize, totalPacketLength - headerSize);
 
-            uint8_t buffer[kBufferSize];
+        // Remove read data from buffer.
+        _inboundBuffer.erase(_inboundBuffer.begin(), _inboundBuffer.begin() + totalPacketLength);
 
-            if (missingLength > 0)
-            {
-                ReadPacket status = Socket->ReceiveData(buffer, std::min(missingLength, kBufferSize), &bytesRead);
-                if (status != ReadPacket::success)
-                {
-                    return status;
-                }
+        RecordPacketStats(InboundPacket, false);
 
-                InboundPacket.BytesTransferred += bytesRead;
-                InboundPacket.Write(buffer, bytesRead);
-            }
-
-            if (InboundPacket.Data.size() == header.Size)
-            {
-                // Received complete packet.
-                _lastPacketTime = Platform::GetTicks();
-
-                RecordPacketStats(InboundPacket, false);
-
-                return ReadPacket::success;
-            }
-        }
-
-        return ReadPacket::moreData;
+        return ReadPacket::success;
     }
 
-    static sfl::small_vector<uint8_t, 512> serializePacket(const Packet& packet)
+    static sfl::small_vector<uint8_t, 512> serializePacket(bool legacyProtocol, const Packet& packet)
     {
-        // NOTE: For compatibility reasons for the master server we need to add sizeof(Header.Id) to the size.
-        // Previously the Id field was not part of the header rather part of the body.
-        const auto bodyLength = packet.Data.size() + sizeof(packet.Header.Id);
-
-        Guard::Assert(bodyLength <= std::numeric_limits<uint16_t>::max(), "Packet size too large");
-
-        auto header = packet.Header;
-        header.Size = static_cast<uint16_t>(bodyLength);
-        header.Size = Convert::HostToNetwork(header.Size);
-        header.Id = ByteSwapBE(header.Id);
-
         sfl::small_vector<uint8_t, 512> buffer;
-        buffer.reserve(sizeof(header) + packet.Data.size());
 
-        buffer.insert(buffer.end(), reinterpret_cast<uint8_t*>(&header), reinterpret_cast<uint8_t*>(&header) + sizeof(header));
+        if (legacyProtocol)
+        {
+            // NOTE: For compatibility reasons for the master server we need to add sizeof(Header.Id) to the size.
+            // Previously the Id field was not part of the header rather part of the body.
+            const auto bodyLength = packet.Data.size() + sizeof(PacketLegacyHeader::Id);
+
+            Guard::Assert(bodyLength <= std::numeric_limits<uint16_t>::max(), "Packet size too large");
+
+            PacketLegacyHeader header{};
+            header.Size = static_cast<uint16_t>(bodyLength);
+            header.Size = Convert::HostToNetwork(header.Size);
+            header.Id = ByteSwapBE(packet.Header.id);
+
+            buffer.insert(
+                buffer.end(), reinterpret_cast<uint8_t*>(&header), reinterpret_cast<uint8_t*>(&header) + sizeof(header));
+        }
+        else
+        {
+            PacketHeader header{};
+            header.magic = Convert::HostToNetwork(PacketHeader::kMagic);
+            header.version = Convert::HostToNetwork(PacketHeader::kVersion);
+            header.size = Convert::HostToNetwork(static_cast<uint32_t>(packet.Data.size()));
+            header.id = Convert::HostToNetwork(packet.Header.id);
+
+            buffer.insert(
+                buffer.end(), reinterpret_cast<uint8_t*>(&header), reinterpret_cast<uint8_t*>(&header) + sizeof(header));
+        }
+
         buffer.insert(buffer.end(), packet.Data.begin(), packet.Data.end());
 
         return buffer;
@@ -129,7 +189,7 @@ namespace OpenRCT2::Network
     {
         if (AuthStatus == Auth::ok || !packet.CommandRequiresAuth())
         {
-            const auto payload = serializePacket(packet);
+            const auto payload = serializePacket(_isLegacyProtocol, packet);
             if (front)
             {
                 _outboundBuffer.insert(_outboundBuffer.begin(), payload.begin(), payload.end());
@@ -168,20 +228,16 @@ namespace OpenRCT2::Network
         }
     }
 
-    void Connection::ResetLastPacketTime() noexcept
+    bool Connection::ReceivedDataRecently() const noexcept
     {
-        _lastPacketTime = Platform::GetTicks();
-    }
-
-    bool Connection::ReceivedPacketRecently() const noexcept
-    {
-    #ifndef DEBUG
         constexpr auto kTimeoutMs = kNoDataTimeout * 1000;
-        if (Platform::GetTicks() > _lastPacketTime + kTimeoutMs)
+
+        const auto timeSinceLastRecv = Platform::GetTicks() - _lastReceiveTime;
+        if (timeSinceLastRecv > kTimeoutMs)
         {
             return false;
         }
-    #endif
+
         return true;
     }
 
@@ -231,6 +287,22 @@ namespace OpenRCT2::Network
             stats.bytesReceived[EnumValue(StatisticsGroup::Total)] += packetSize;
         }
     }
+
+    Command Connection::getPendingPacketCommand() const noexcept
+    {
+        return InboundPacket.GetCommand();
+    }
+
+    size_t Connection::getPendingPacketSize() const noexcept
+    {
+        return InboundPacket.Header.size;
+    }
+
+    size_t Connection::getPendingPacketAvailable() const noexcept
+    {
+        return InboundPacket.BytesTransferred;
+    }
+
 } // namespace OpenRCT2::Network
 
 #endif
diff --git a/src/openrct2/network/NetworkConnection.h b/src/openrct2/network/NetworkConnection.h
index e06333a6fa..6ed1045858 100644
--- a/src/openrct2/network/NetworkConnection.h
+++ b/src/openrct2/network/NetworkConnection.h
@@ -45,28 +45,35 @@ namespace OpenRCT2::Network
 
         Connection() noexcept;
 
+        void update();
         ReadPacket readPacket();
         void QueuePacket(const Packet& packet, bool front = false);
 
+        Command getPendingPacketCommand() const noexcept;
+        size_t getPendingPacketSize() const noexcept;
+        size_t getPendingPacketAvailable() const noexcept;
+
         // This will not immediately disconnect the client. The disconnect
         // will happen post-tick.
         void Disconnect() noexcept;
 
         bool IsValid() const;
         void SendQueuedData();
-        void ResetLastPacketTime() noexcept;
-        bool ReceivedPacketRecently() const noexcept;
+        bool ReceivedDataRecently() const noexcept;
 
         const utf8* GetLastDisconnectReason() const noexcept;
         void SetLastDisconnectReason(std::string_view src);
         void SetLastDisconnectReason(const StringId string_id, void* args = nullptr);
 
     private:
+        std::vector<uint8_t> _inboundBuffer;
         std::vector<uint8_t> _outboundBuffer;
-        uint32_t _lastPacketTime = 0;
+        uint32_t _lastReceiveTime = 0;
         std::string _lastDisconnectReason;
+        bool _isLegacyProtocol = false;
 
         void RecordPacketStats(const Packet& packet, bool sending);
+        void receiveData();
     };
 } // namespace OpenRCT2::Network
 
diff --git a/src/openrct2/network/NetworkPacket.cpp b/src/openrct2/network/NetworkPacket.cpp
index 87ef06317c..82a87808ba 100644
--- a/src/openrct2/network/NetworkPacket.cpp
+++ b/src/openrct2/network/NetworkPacket.cpp
@@ -18,7 +18,7 @@
 namespace OpenRCT2::Network
 {
     Packet::Packet(Command id) noexcept
-        : Header{ 0, id }
+        : Header{ PacketHeader::kMagic, PacketHeader::kVersion, 0, id }
     {
     }
 
@@ -34,7 +34,7 @@ namespace OpenRCT2::Network
 
     Command Packet::GetCommand() const noexcept
     {
-        return Header.Id;
+        return Header.id;
     }
 
     void Packet::Clear() noexcept
diff --git a/src/openrct2/network/NetworkPacket.h b/src/openrct2/network/NetworkPacket.h
index ce69859e3f..72688485aa 100644
--- a/src/openrct2/network/NetworkPacket.h
+++ b/src/openrct2/network/NetworkPacket.h
@@ -19,12 +19,23 @@
 namespace OpenRCT2::Network
 {
 #pragma pack(push, 1)
-    struct PacketHeader
+    struct PacketLegacyHeader
     {
         uint16_t Size = 0;
         Command Id = Command::invalid;
     };
-    static_assert(sizeof(PacketHeader) == 6);
+    static_assert(sizeof(PacketLegacyHeader) == 6);
+
+    struct PacketHeader
+    {
+        static constexpr uint32_t kMagic = 0x3254524F; // 'ORT2'
+        static constexpr uint16_t kVersion = 2;
+
+        uint32_t magic{};
+        uint16_t version{};
+        uint32_t size{};
+        Command id{};
+    };
 #pragma pack(pop)
 
     struct Packet final
@@ -49,7 +60,7 @@ namespace OpenRCT2::Network
         template<typename T>
         Packet& operator>>(T& value)
         {
-            if (BytesRead + sizeof(value) > Header.Size)
+            if (BytesRead + sizeof(value) > Header.size)
             {
                 value = T{};
             }
diff --git a/src/openrct2/network/NetworkTypes.h b/src/openrct2/network/NetworkTypes.h
index 255d03eab0..fc027f478d 100644
--- a/src/openrct2/network/NetworkTypes.h
+++ b/src/openrct2/network/NetworkTypes.h
@@ -82,9 +82,10 @@ namespace OpenRCT2::Network
         playerInfo,
         requestGameState,
         gameState,
-        scriptsHeader,
+        scriptsHeader, // Deprecated.
         scriptsData,
         heartbeat,
+        beginMap,
         max,
         invalid = static_cast<uint32_t>(-1),
     };
diff --git a/src/openrct2/network/Socket.cpp b/src/openrct2/network/Socket.cpp
index 73e2447cd7..795b96bcda 100644
--- a/src/openrct2/network/Socket.cpp
+++ b/src/openrct2/network/Socket.cpp
@@ -982,17 +982,4 @@ namespace OpenRCT2::Network
 
 } // namespace OpenRCT2::Network
 
-namespace OpenRCT2::Convert
-{
-    uint16_t HostToNetwork(uint16_t value)
-    {
-        return htons(value);
-    }
-
-    uint16_t NetworkToHost(uint16_t value)
-    {
-        return ntohs(value);
-    }
-} // namespace OpenRCT2::Convert
-
 #endif
diff --git a/src/openrct2/network/Socket.h b/src/openrct2/network/Socket.h
index e5e9ac0771..034e615d7e 100644
--- a/src/openrct2/network/Socket.h
+++ b/src/openrct2/network/Socket.h
@@ -9,6 +9,8 @@
 
 #pragma once
 
+#include "../core/Endianness.h"
+
 #include <memory>
 #include <string>
 #include <vector>
@@ -106,6 +108,24 @@ namespace OpenRCT2::Network
 
 namespace OpenRCT2::Convert
 {
-    uint16_t HostToNetwork(uint16_t value);
-    uint16_t NetworkToHost(uint16_t value);
+    template<typename T>
+    constexpr T HostToNetwork(T value)
+    {
+        if constexpr (std::endian::native == std::endian::big)
+        {
+            return value; // already network order
+        }
+        else
+        {
+            return ByteSwapBE(value);
+        }
+    }
+
+    template<typename T>
+    constexpr T NetworkToHost(T value)
+    {
+        // Conversion is symmetric
+        return HostToNetwork(value);
+    }
+
 } // namespace OpenRCT2::Convert