Fix Valheim "Incompatible Version" Error
Incompatible versionwrong versionversion mismatch"Incompatible version" means your Valheim client and the server are on different game versions — or, on a modded server, your BepInEx mods don't match. Here is how to fix it for both vanilla and modded setups.
Vanilla: update both sides
After a Valheim patch, the server must update too. If your client updated but the server didn't (or vice-versa), you get this error. Update the server to the current build and restart it.
Modded: match BepInEx & mods
On a modded server, the client needs the same mods at the same versions as the server. A mod that updated on one side causes an incompatible-version mismatch. Use a mod manager (r2modman/Thunderstore) to sync — see Valheim server not showing.
Update the server first, then players, then rejoin. Restart the server so it actually runs the new version before testing.
Which case are you?
"Incompatible version" has three common causes — match your situation to the fix:
| Your setup | Likely cause | Fix |
|---|---|---|
| Vanilla server | Client and server on different game builds | Update the server to the current build and restart |
| Modded (BepInEx) | A mod updated on one side only | Sync the exact mod set/versions with a mod manager |
| Steam vs Game Pass | Crossplay setting mismatch | Match the server's crossplay setting to how you connect |
Step-by-step fix
- Note whether the server is vanilla or modded — the fix differs.
- Vanilla: update the dedicated server to the current build.
- Modded: open your mod manager and sync to the server's exact mod list and versions (not just "latest").
- Restart the server so it actually loads the new version.
- Have players update their side, then rejoin — server first, players second.
Client and server (and all mods) must be the same version. Update the server, sync mods, restart, rejoin.
Cause 3: crossplay or platform mismatch
If the server runs with crossplay settings different from your client (Steam vs Xbox/Game Pass), you can hit a version-style rejection even on the same build. Confirm the server's crossplay setting matches how you're connecting.
How to prevent version mismatches
- Turn on auto-update for the server where possible.
- Announce updates to players before restarting.
- Pin mod versions in a shared modpack/profile so nobody drifts.
- Check the Valheim patch notes before a big session.
Related errors
If the server does not show up at all, see Valheim server not showing. Setting one up from scratch? See how to make a Valheim server and the best Valheim mods. For a general timeout instead of a version error, see connection timed out.
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Frequently asked questions
Why does Valheim say "Incompatible version"?
Your client and the server are on different game versions, or — on a modded server — your mods don't match the server's. Update both to the same version and sync mods.
How do I fix it on a modded server?
Use a mod manager like r2modman to install the exact mods and versions the server runs. A single mismatched mod version triggers the error.
Who updates first, server or client?
Update the server to the current build and restart it, then have players update. Testing before the server actually restarts on the new version will still show the error.
Does Steam auto-update my Valheim server for me?
Not automatically unless you set it up — a SteamCMD-run dedicated server only updates when you tell it to, or on restart if you script an update check. Many managed hosts auto-update on restart; check your panel's settings.
Can two players with different mod versions play together?
No — Valheim (via BepInEx) checks that connecting clients report the same mods and versions as the server. Even a minor version bump on one mod will trigger "Incompatible version" for everyone else.
Does verifying game files fix "Incompatible version"?
Only if your client itself is corrupted or stuck mid-update. Verify files in Steam, but if the server is genuinely on a different version, verifying won't help — the server needs to update or you need to wait.
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