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Valheim Server Not Showing - Complete Fix Guide

Valheim Guide • Updated Jan 15, 2026

Valheim Server Not Showing in the List

If your server is invisible in the community browser, it usually means the server is not public, ports are blocked, the password is invalid, or there's a version mismatch. This guide covers all known causes and fixes.

Important: Valheim's community server browser has a display limit. Even with correct settings, your server may not appear due to the sheer number of servers. We recommend using Steam Favorites or Join Codes for reliable connections.

Quick Diagnostic Table

Check Why It Fails Fix
-public 1 flag Server not listed in community browser Set -public 1 in launch parameters
Password length Password must be at least 5 characters Use -password "secret" (min 5 chars)
Ports 2456-2458 open Steam query cannot reach the server Forward 2456-2458 UDP on router and firewall
Query port (2457) Browser uses 2457 for server discovery Add server via Steam using IP:2457
Game version Version mismatch prevents listing Update both server and client to same version
Registration delay New servers take 5-15 minutes to appear Wait and refresh, or use direct IP

Step-by-Step Fix

1. Verify Public Mode is Enabled

When creating a world through the game, you must select "Community Server" to make it visible. For dedicated servers, ensure -public 1 is in your launch parameters.

2. Check Password Requirements

Valheim requires a password with minimum 5 characters. If your password is too short or empty, the server won't appear in the list and you'll see an error in logs.

# Wrong (too short)
-password "abc"

# Correct
-password "secret123"

3. Open the Required Ports

Valheim requires three sequential UDP ports:

  • 2456 - Game traffic (primary)
  • 2457 - Steam query/browser listing
  • 2458 - Additional game traffic

If you use a custom port (e.g., 2556), you must also open 2557 and 2558.

4. Use Alternative Connection Methods

The community browser is unreliable. Use these alternatives:

Option A: Steam Server Browser (Recommended)

  1. Open Steam → View → Game Servers
  2. Click "Favorites" tab, then "Add a Server"
  3. Enter YOUR_IP:2457 (use port 2457, not 2456)
  4. Click "Add to Favorites" and connect

Option B: Join Code (Crossplay)

If crossplay is enabled, use the Join Code system:

  1. Server host opens pause menu and copies the Join Code
  2. Friends go to "Join Game" → "Add Server"
  3. Paste the join code and connect

Option C: Direct IP Connection

  1. In Valheim, click "Join Game"
  2. Click "Add Server" and enter IP:2456
  3. Select the server and click "Connect"

5. Handle Crossplay Issues

If using -crossplay for Steam/Xbox cross-platform play:

  • Ensure PlayFab IP ranges are not blocked by firewall
  • Install VC Redist 2015-2022 (Steam doesn't install it automatically)
  • Xbox/Game Pass players cannot disable crossplay - they must use crossplay-enabled servers
  • Avoid game-changing mods as they desync Xbox clients

6. Update Game Version

Version mismatch is a common cause. After updates (like Ashlands or Hildir's Request):

  • Verify server and all clients are on the same version
  • Restart the game to clear cache after updates
  • Check Steam for pending Valheim updates

Example Launch Line

valheim_server -nographics -batchmode -name "Viking Realm" -port 2456 -world "Dedicated" -password "secret123" -public 1

Still Not Working?

Additional Troubleshooting:

  • Restart everything: Restart both the server and game client to refresh connections
  • Check logs: Look for password or port errors in server console output
  • Update network drivers: Outdated drivers can cause visibility issues
  • Verify game files: Steam Library → Valheim → Properties → Verify Integrity
  • Use "Friends" filter: If the host is in your Steam friends, enable the "Friends" filter in-game

Pro Tip: If the server appears for the host but not for remote players, the issue is almost always NAT or port forwarding. Double-check that ports are forwarded to the correct internal IP address.

Skip the networking headaches. Host your Valheim server with Supercraft for pre-configured ports, instant browser visibility, and reliable crossplay support.

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