im just curious to this.. a few of my friends dont have the new map packs and when i host they cant join even if im only playing default maps that i know they have .. do i have a setting wrong or do they just have to have the new maps to be able to join me ? either that or they have to host right?

Hi Blackhearted and welcome to the forums

When you say you are only playing the default maps do you mean in the server selection??

Have you actually switched DLC off??

If not you need to do so, anyone joining your server must have the exact same content as you, they may have more than but must at minimum meet the same DLC as you.

To allow persons with no content, less content than you or different content packs join you will need to switch content off entirely from your profile.

This thread will explain how you can turn your extra content off and thus allowing those with none or different content join.

Another quick fix is as you mention allowing the other players to host but again you will need to meet their minimum content pack to join.

I hope that helps but if you continue to have issues just us a shout