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How to Host a Terraria Dedicated Server - Setup Guide

Terraria Guide • Updated Jan 29, 2026

How to Host a Terraria Dedicated Server

Hosting a Terraria dedicated server is the best way to play multiplayer without being tethered to the "Host & Play" limitations. This guide will walk you through setting up a vanilla server and the popular TShock mod for admin tools.

Why use a dedicated server?

  • Persistence: The world is always online for your friends.
  • Stability: Decouples the server process from your game client (less lag).
  • Admin Tools: TShock allows for region protection, warp points, and item spawning.

Note: Creating a server requires port forwarding and computer knowledge. If you prefer a 1-click solution, consider renting Terraria server hosting starting at a few dollars a month.

Step 1: Download Server Files

For Vanilla (Official):

You can find the dedicated server software in your Steam installation:

  1. Open Steam Library.
  2. Enable "Tools" in the dropdown filter.
  3. Search and Install "Terraria Dedicated Server".
  4. Navigate to files (typically C:\Program Files (x86)\Steam\steamapps\common\Terraria).

For TShock (Recommended):

TShock is a modified server software that offers plugins and permissions.

  1. Download the latest release from the official TShock GitHub.
  2. Extract the files to a new folder (e.g., C:\TerrariaServer).

Step 2: Launching the Server

Run TerrariaServer.exe (Vanilla) or TShock.Server.exe. You will be greeted by a command prompt window asking for setup details:

  1. Choose World: Type n for New World, or select an existing ID.
  2. Max Players: Default is 8. Enter a higher number if needed.
  3. Port: Default is 7777. Press Enter to accept.
  4. Password: Optional but recommended.

Step 3: Port Forwarding (Crucial)

Your friends cannot connect unless you forward TCP Port 7777 on your router.

  1. Log into your router (usually 192.168.1.1 or 192.168.0.1).
  2. Find "Port Forwarding" or "Virtual Server".
  3. Add a new rule: Port 7777, Protocol TCP, pointing to your PC's local IP (e.g., 192.168.1.10).

If this sounds too technical, most Terraria hosting providers handle ports automatically.

Step 4: Connecting

  • You (Host): Connect to IP 127.0.0.1.
  • Friends: Connect to your External IP Address (WhatIsMyIP.com).

Advanced: Server Config File

To automate startup without typing options every time, edit the serverconfig.txt file:

world=C:/Terraria/Worlds/MyWorld.wld
port=7777
password=secret
maxplayers=16
motd=Welcome to our server!
secure=1

Then launch the server with: TerrariaServer.exe -config serverconfig.txt.

Conclusion

You now have a running Terraria server! Keep the console window open to keep the server running. If you want to run it 24/7 without leaving your PC on, dedicated Terraria server hosting is the next logical step.

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