How to Setup a Valheim Dedicated Server

Valheim is best played with friends, and a dedicated server ensures your world is always online, even when you aren't. In this guide, we will cover how to set up your own Valheim dedicated server using SteamCMD, and compare the DIY method vs. professional Valheim server hosting.

Prerequisites for Valheim Server Hosting

Before you begin, ensure your hosting machine meets the following requirements:

• OS: Windows 10/11 or Linux (Ubuntu 20.04+ recommended)
• CPU: Quad-core processor (3.0 GHz+)
• RAM: 4GB minimum (8GB recommended for crossplay)
• Network: UDP Ports 2456-2457 forwarded

Method 1: Using SteamCMD (Windows/Linux)

Step 1: Install SteamCMD

SteamCMD is the command-line version of Steam, used to download server files.

1. Download SteamCMD for Windows.
2. Extract the contents to a folder (e.g., C:\steamcmd).

Step 2: Download Valheim Server Files

Open a command prompt or terminal and run the following command to download the Valheim dedicated server files. App ID 896660 is for the dedicated server.

steamcmd +login anonymous +force_install_dir C:\ValheimServer +app_update 896660 validate +quit

Step 3: Configure the Startup Script

Navigate to your server installation folder (C:\ValheimServer). You will see a file named start_headless_server.bat (Windows) or start_server.sh (Linux). Make a copy of this file and rename it to start.bat or start.sh to prevent updates from overwriting it.

Edit the file with a text editor and customize the following parameters:

valheim_server -nographics -batchmode -name "MyServerName" -port 2456 -world "Dedicated" -password "Secret123" -public 1

• -name: The name displayed in the server browser.
• -world: The name of your save file.
• -password: Required. Must be at least 5 characters.
• -public 1: Sets the server to be visible in the community list.

Step 4: Port Forwarding

For players outside your local network to join, you must forward ports 2456-2457 UDP on your router to your server's local IP address. If you skip this step, your server will be "Invisible" to the internet.

Advanced Configuration: Crossplay & Performance

Enabling Crossplay

To allow Xbox and PC players to play together, add the -crossplay argument to your startup script. Note that crossplay servers use a relay network which may increase latency. High-quality Valheim server hosting providers often route this traffic through optimized paths to minimize lag.

Need a Professional Solution?

Self-hosting is a great learning experience, but it comes with maintenance overhead. If you want to skip the technical setup and get straight to playing, check out our premium Valheim server hosting.

• Automatic Mod Installs: Valheim Plus, BepInEx, and more.
• Daily Backups: Never lose your world to corruption.
• High Performance: Ryzen 9 CPUs guarantee lag-free raids.

Rent Your Valheim Server Now