Fix Valheim Dedicated Server Not Showing in the List
server not showing in listcan't find dedicated serverA Valheim dedicated server that won't appear in the browser is almost always ports or the crossplay setting. Here's the fix — plus the reliable way to connect no matter what.
Open the right ports
Valheim needs a small UDP range. Make sure these are open/forwarded to the server:
2456/udp game
2457/udp query
2458/udp (used by some setups)The crossplay catch
Valheim has two listings: the Steam browser and the crossplay (PlayFab) list. If players use different platforms, the server must run with crossplay enabled, or some players simply won't see it. Add the launch flag:
./valheim_server.x86_64 -name "My Server" -port 2456 \
-world "Dedicated" -password "secret" -crossplayJust join directly (most reliable)
The community browser is slow and flaky. Skip it: in Valheim → Start Game → character → Join Game → Join IP, and enter server-ip:2456. This works even when the listing hasn't refreshed.
New servers can take several minutes to appear in the browser after first boot. If ports are open and crossplay is set, wait — or just join by IP in the meantime.
Open 2456–2457/udp, add -crossplay, and use "Join IP". That combination gets everyone in.
Valheim is a trademark of Iron Gate AB / Coffee Stain Publishing. ESAGAMES is an independent hosting provider, not affiliated with or endorsed by Iron Gate or Coffee Stain.
Valheim hosting, ports done
Our Valheim hosting opens the right ports automatically and runs crossplay-ready on a protected network.
Frequently asked questions
What ports does a Valheim dedicated server use?
UDP 2456 (game) and 2457 (query), with some setups also using 2458. They must be open and forwarded for the server to be reachable and listed.
Why can some friends see my server but not others?
Usually crossplay. If players are on different platforms, the server must run with the -crossplay flag, otherwise it only shows in one of the two server lists.
How do I join a Valheim server by IP?
Start Game → pick your character → Join Game → Join IP, then enter the server IP and port (e.g. 1.2.3.4:2456). It's the most reliable way when the browser is lagging.
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