How to Make a Starbound Server
A complete walkthrough for running your own Starbound dedicated server — install it with SteamCMD, open the port, tune starbound_server.config and explore the galaxy 24/7 with your friends. Plus the one-click hosted route if you'd rather skip the setup.
Starbound ships a free dedicated server (Steam app 533830) that runs natively on 64-bit Linux via SteamCMD. It's light, uses port 21025 (TCP + UDP), and keeps a persistent universe your group shares. You can self-host it or use a managed host for an always-online galaxy.
This guide covers the self-hosted SteamCMD route step by step.
What you'll need
A quick checklist before you begin — have these ready and the rest is easy.
- A 64-bit machine to run the server, or a host for 24/7 uptime.
- SteamCMD with a Steam account that owns Starbound (app 533830).
- starbound_server.config set (name, players, password).
- Open port: 21025 (TCP + UDP).
- A modest CPU and 2-4 GB of RAM.
Set up a Starbound dedicated server, step by step
Choose self-host or a managed host
The server is free, but self-hosting needs a machine on 24/7 and port-forwarding. A managed host gives you an always-online universe in minutes. Want zero hassle? Pick a host and skip to step 4.
Install with SteamCMD
The Starbound dedicated server is Steam app 533830. It needs a Steam account that owns Starbound for the server files.
steamcmd +login+force_install_dir ./starbound +app_update 533830 validate +quit
Launch the server
Run the Linux server binary (from the linux folder). It generates the universe and config on first start.
./starbound_server
Configure starbound_server.config
Set the server name, max players, a password, and gameplay options in starbound_server.config. This controls the whole server.
Open the port
Forward TCP and UDP 21025 (the default) so players can find and join. On a managed host this is opened for you.
21025 game (TCP + UDP)
Add mods (optional)
Starbound uses the Steam Workshop and pak mods. Put mod .pak files in the server's mods folder; players need the same mods to join. Keep versions in sync.
Run a stable universe
Light on hardware
A modest CPU and 2-4 GB of RAM run a full server. Starbound is far lighter than big survival games.
Set a password
Add a password in starbound_server.config to keep the universe to your group.
Sync mods with players
Players need the same .pak mods as the server to join. Keep the mods folder and your community in sync.
Back up the universe
Your whole universe lives in the storage/universe folder. Back it up before updates so a bad patch never costs your worlds.
Common problems & fixes
Hit a snag? These are the issues people run into most — and how to solve them.
Players can't connect
Port 21025 (TCP + UDP) isn't open. Forward it on the router and confirm the host firewall allows both protocols.
The server won't start
Make sure you're on a 64-bit OS and running the correct linux server binary. Re-validate with SteamCMD if files are missing.
Modded players can't join
They need the same .pak mods as the server. Share the mod list and keep the mods folder in sync.
The universe reset
The storage/universe folder was moved or corrupted. Restore from a backup and don't edit it while the server runs.
Skip the setup — host it with ESAGAMES
Want your Starbound universe online 24/7 without port-forwarding? Our game server hosting runs it on high-clock CPUs behind a protected Frankfurt network — online in minutes.
Frequently asked questions
Do I need to own Starbound to host a server?
Yes — the dedicated server (Steam app 533830) installs with a Steam account that owns Starbound, and players need a legitimate copy to connect.
What port does a Starbound server use?
21025, over both TCP and UDP, by default. Forward it so players can find and join. You can change it in starbound_server.config.
How much hardware does a Starbound server need?
Not much — a modest CPU and 2-4 GB of RAM run a full server. It's a light game to host, and requires a 64-bit OS.
How do I add mods to a Starbound server?
Put mod .pak files in the server's mods folder (Workshop or manual). Players need the same mods installed to join, so keep the server and clients in sync.
Where do I configure a Starbound server?
In starbound_server.config — server name, max players, password and gameplay options. It's generated on first launch; stop the server to edit it.
Does the universe stay saved when I log off?
Yes — a dedicated server keeps the universe persistent and online 24/7, so your group's worlds and progress carry between sessions.
Keep reading
Starbound is a trademark of Chucklefish. ESAGAMES is an independent hosting provider, not affiliated with or endorsed by Chucklefish. You must own a legitimate copy of the game to play.
