Welcome to our comprehensive guide on how to host a dedicated server for Valheim. Valheim is a popular action-role playing game that has gained a lot of popularity in recent times. With its open-world environment and Viking theme, the game offers an exciting gaming experience for players. However, playing the game with friends and family can be a lot more fun and engaging when you have your own dedicated server. In this article, we will guide you through the process of setting up and hosting a dedicated server for Valheim. We will provide all the necessary steps and information to ensure that the process is easy and straightforward. So, let’s dive in!
Table of Contents
Introduction: What is Valheim and Why Host a Dedicated Server?
Valheim is an open-world, Viking-themed survival game that was released in February 2021. Developed by Iron Gate AB and published by Coffee Stain Publishing, the game has quickly gained a lot of popularity among gamers worldwide. In Valheim, players take on the role of Vikings and explore a procedurally generated world filled with mythical creatures and ancient ruins. The ultimate goal of the game is to defeat the game’s five bosses and ascend to Valhalla.
Hosting your own Valheim dedicated server allows you to create a private world where you can play with your friends and family without any interruptions. It also gives you more control over the game, such as the ability to set your own rules and game modes. A dedicated server provides a smoother gaming experience and eliminates lag, making the game more enjoyable to play.
In this article, we will guide you through the process of hosting your own Valheim dedicated server, whether you are using a Windows or Linux system.
System Requirements for Hosting a Valheim Dedicated Server
Before you can start hosting your own Valheim dedicated server, it is essential to ensure that your system meets the minimum requirements for the game. Here are the system requirements for hosting a Valheim dedicated server:
| Minimum Requirements | Recommended Requirements |
|---|---|
| OS: Windows 7 or higher, 64-bit | OS: Windows 10, 64-bit |
| Processor: Intel Dual-Core 2.6 GHz or AMD Dual-Core 3.0 GHz | Processor: Intel Quad-Core 3.2 GHz or AMD Six-Core 3.2 GHz |
| Memory: 4 GB RAM | Memory: 8 GB RAM |
| Graphics: Nvidia GTX 500 Series or AMD Radeon HD 6000 Series | Graphics: Nvidia GTX 970 or AMD Radeon RX 480 |
It is also important to note that the recommended system requirements are for a server with up to 10 players. If you plan to host a server with more than 10 players, you may need to consider upgrading your system hardware to ensure optimal performance.
Internet Connection Requirements
In addition to the system requirements, you will also need a stable internet connection to host a Valheim dedicated server. The minimum recommended internet speed is 3 Mbps for download and 1 Mbps for upload. However, an internet speed of at least 10 Mbps download and 5 Mbps upload is recommended for a smooth gaming experience.
Setting up a Valheim Dedicated Server on Windows
In this section, we will guide you through the process of setting up a Valheim dedicated server on a Windows system. Follow the steps below:
Step 1: Download the Valheim Dedicated Server
The first step is to download the Valheim dedicated server software from the official website. You can download the software here: https://valheim.fandom.com/wiki/Dedicated_Server
Step 2: Create a New Folder for the Server
Next, create a new folder on your system where you will install the Valheim server software. It is recommended to create a folder on the C:\ drive, as this will make the server easily accessible. Name the folder something that you can easily remember, like “Valheim Server”.
Step 3: Extract the Server Files to the New Folder
Once you have downloaded the server software and created a new folder, extract the server files to the new folder. You can do this by right-clicking on the downloaded file and selecting “Extract All”.
Step 4: Configure the Server Settings
Next, you will need to configure the server settings to match your preferences. To do this, open the “start_headless_server.bat” file with a text editor like Notepad. This file contains the settings for the server. Here are some of the settings you can modify:
- world: This setting specifies the name of the world that the server will host. You can name it anything you like.
- password: This setting allows you to set a password for your server. This is useful if you want to restrict access to only people you know.
- port: This setting specifies the port that the server will use to communicate with players. The default port is 2456, but you can change it if you like.
- maxplayers: This setting specifies the maximum number of players that can join the server at once. The default is 10, but you can increase it if you have the hardware to support it.
Once you have modified the settings to your liking, save the file and close it.
Step 5: Start the Server
Finally, you can start the server by double-clicking on the “start_headless_server.bat” file. This will launch the server and allow players to connect to it.
Step 6: Connect to the Server
To connect to the server, open the Valheim game and select “Join Game”. Enter the server’s IP address and port number, and then click “Connect”. If the server has a password, you will also need to enter the password to connect.
Setting up a Valheim Dedicated Server on Linux
Hosting a Valheim dedicated server on Linux is similar to hosting it on Windows. The main difference is in the installation process. Here are the steps to follow:
Step 1: Install SteamCMD
The first step is to install SteamCMD. This is a command-line utility that allows you to download and install the Valheim server software. Use the following commands:
sudo apt-get update sudo apt-get install steamcmd
Step 2: Create a Dedicated User for the Server
Next, create a dedicated user account to run the server. This is important for security reasons and to prevent the server from interfering with other processes running on the system. Use the following command:
sudo adduser valheim
Replace “valheim” with the username of your choice.
Step 3: Switch to the Dedicated User
After creating the dedicated user, switch to the user using the following command:
sudo su - valheim
Step 4: Create a New Folder for the Server Files
Next, create a new folder where you will install the Valheim server software. Use the following command:
mkdir ~/valheim_server
Step 5: Install the Valheim Server Software
Now, use SteamCMD to install the Valheim server software. Use the following commands:
cd ~/valheim_server steamcmd +login anonymous +force_install_dir ./valheim_server +app_update 896660 validate +exit
Step 6: Configure the Server Settings
Next, configure the server settings to match your preferences. You can do this by using a text editor like Nano to modify the “start_server.sh” file. Here are some of the settings you can modify:
- name: This setting specifies the name of the world that the server will host. You can name it anything you like.
- world: This setting specifies the seed that the server will use to generate the world. You can leave it blank to allow the server to generate a random seed.
- password: This setting allows you to set a password for your server. This is useful if you want to restrict access to only people you know.
- port: This setting specifies the port that the server will use to communicate with players. The default port is 2456, but you can change it if you like.
- public: This setting determines whether the server is listed publicly on the Valheim server list or not. Set it to “1” to make the server public, and “0” to make it private.
- maxplayers: This setting specifies the maximum number of players that can join the server at once. The default is 10, but you can increase it if you have the hardware to support it.
Once you have modified the settings to your liking, save the file and exit Nano.
Step 7: Start the Server
Finally, start the server by running the “start_server.sh” script. Use the following command:
./start_server.sh
Step 8: Connect to the Server
To connect to the server, open the Valheim game and select “Join Game”. Enter the server’s IP address and port number, and then click “Connect”. If the server has a password, you will also need to enter the password to connect.
Frequently Asked Questions about Hosting a Valheim Dedicated Server
Here are some frequently asked questions about hosting a Valheim dedicated server:
1. What is a Valheim Dedicated Server?
A Valheim dedicated server is a server that is hosted on a separate machine or computer and used exclusively for playing Valheim. It allows players to create a private world where they can play with their friends and family without any interruptions.
2. What are the Benefits of Hosting a Valheim Dedicated Server?
Hosting a Valheim dedicated server provides several benefits, such as:
- Creating a private world that only you and your friends can access
- More control over the game settings
- A smoother gaming experience, free from lag and interruptions
3. What are the System Requirements for Hosting a Valheim Dedicated Server?
The system requirements for hosting a Valheim dedicated server are:
- OS: Windows 7 or higher, 64-bit
- Processor: Intel Dual-Core 2.6 GHz or AMD Dual-Core 3.0 GHz
- Memory: 4 GB RAM
- Graphics: Nvidia GTX 500 Series or AMD Radeon HD 6000 Series
4. Do I Need a Fast Internet Connection to Host a Valheim Dedicated Server?
Yes, a fast and stable internet connection is important for hosting a Valheim dedicated server. The minimum recommended internet speed is 3 Mbps for download and 1 Mbps for upload. However, an internet speed of at least 10 Mbps download and 5 Mbps upload is recommended for a smooth gaming experience.
5. How Many Players Can Join a Valheim Dedicated Server?
The maximum number of players that can join a Valheim dedicated server is 10. However, you can increase this number if you have the hardware to support it.
6. How Do I Connect to a Valheim Dedicated Server?
To connect to a Valheim dedicated server, open the Valheim game and select “Join Game”. Enter the server’s IP address and port number, and then click “Connect”. If the server has a password, you will also need to enter the password to connect.
Conclusion: How to Host a Dedicated Server for Valheim
Hosting your own Valheim dedicated server is a great way to enjoy the game with friends and family. It provides a private world where you can play without any interruptions and allows you to have more control over the game settings. In this article, we have provided a step-by-step guide on how to host a dedicated server for Valheim on both Windows and Linux systems. We hope this guide has been helpful, and we wish you the best of luck in your Valheim adventures!