DC++ fails to download chat content, search returns no results and no errors in log

I have set up my connection for manual configuration. The ports are Transfer: 5572, TLS Encrypted: 5565, Search: 4812. I have forwarded the same ports of my router. The WAN/exteral IP field contains the current IP of my VPN. The Bind field is blank.

At no time does the system log display any errors as I use the program. I can join hubs, read the welcome information in the main window, and see the list of users in the hub. No chatting can be observed and Search returns no results.

I am puzzled because I've worked on it until no errors occur (that I can see), yet the program does not work. I don't know if it's because of the router, the VPN, or something else.

If anyone has advice for me I'd love to hear it!

Thanks everyone!