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Factorio Server Setup Guide: First Time Configuration

Factorio Guide • Updated Feb 10, 2026

Factorio Dedicated Server Setup

Setting up a Factorio dedicated server allows you to create a persistent multiplayer world. This guide covers the essential steps from initial installation to launching your first factory.

Hardware requirements

Factorio is single-threaded. Prioritize CPU Clock Speed over core count. 4GB RAM is the recommended baseline for most factories.

The Headless Version

Dedicated servers should always use the Headless build, which has no graphics and is optimized for background performance.

Network (UDP)

Ensure UDP 34197 is open. RCON administration (optional) uses TCP 27015.

Step 1: Create a World

A dedicated server requires an existing save file to start. You can generate one via the command line:

./factorio --create saves/my-world.zip

Alternatively, you can upload a 1.1 or 2.0 save file from your local computer using the File Manager.

Step 2: Configure Server Settings

The server-settings.json file (located in /data/) is the heart of your configuration. Key fields include:

  • name: The name visible in the public browser.
  • description: A short welcome message for players.
  • token: Your Auth Token for public listing and mod portal access.
  • auto_pause: Set to true to pause the world when no players are online (saves evolution and power).

Step 3: Launching the Server

The standard launch command tells the game which save to load and which settings to use:

./factorio --start-server saves/my-world.zip --server-settings data/server-settings.json

Common Startup Flags

Flag Description
--port [N] Specify a custom UDP game port (Default: 34197).
--rcon-password [PW] Enable RCON administration with a password.
--use-zstd-compression (Version 2.0+) Use Zstandard for faster save/load times.

Performance & UPS

Factorio's simulation runs at 60 Updates Per Second (UPS). If your UPS drops, the game slows down. To maintain 60 UPS on large bases:

  • Minimize Active Entities: Limit the number of active inserters and belts where possible.
  • Enable Auto-Pause: Prevents the factory from running (and biters from evolving) while the server is empty.
  • NVMe Storage: High-speed storage significantly reduces the impact of background autosaves on gameplay.

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