Valheim Dedicated Server Save Location (Windows, Linux, Docker)

Default Valheim dedicated server save location

Each world has two files you must keep together: YourWorld.db and YourWorld.fwl (plus any .old backups). If you do not set -savedir, Valheim uses these defaults:

• Windows: %USERPROFILE%/AppData/LocalLow/IronGate/Valheim/worlds
• Linux: ~/.config/unity3d/IronGate/Valheim/worlds or worlds_local

Set your own save folder with -savedir

Point saves to a clean, backed-up directory so you always know where your world lives. This keeps your Valheim dedicated server save location predictable for backups.

@echo off
set SAVE_PATH="C:\ValheimSaves"
valheim_server -savedir "%SAVE_PATH%" -world "MyWorld"

Linux example:

#!/bin/bash
SAVE_PATH="/home/steam/valheim_saves"
./valheim_server.x86_64 -savedir "$SAVE_PATH" -world "MyWorld"

Docker and hosting panels

• Docker: Bind a volume to /home/steam/.config/unity3d/IronGate/Valheim/worlds (or your custom -savedir) in docker-compose.yml.
• Game panels: Look for a saves/worlds folder in the file manager or a field for -savedir in the startup parameters.
• Cloud backups: Zip both the .db and .fwl files before downloading.

Move or back up your Valheim world safely

1. Stop the server (avoid copying while it is running).
2. Copy .db, .fwl, and any .old files from the save directory.
3. Paste them into the new server’s save folder (or your backup location).
4. Match the -world name to the file names, then start the server.
5. Join and confirm the world loads before deleting old copies; verify the Valheim dedicated server save location is the one you expect.

Troubleshooting missing or reset worlds

• Double-check the server is launching with the same -world name.
• If a new world appears, you likely pointed to the wrong -savedir or folder.
• Restore from .old backups if the main files are corrupted.
• On Linux, verify file ownership for the steam user running the service.

FAQ

Can I mix local and dedicated saves? Yes—just copy both files together and keep the same world name.

Does cloud save sync worlds? No, you need manual backups or a panel that syncs the save folder.

Where to learn more? Check the Valheim dedicated server wiki for additional flags.

Want hands-off hosting? See our Valheim server tips to keep your world online while you focus on raids.