How to Make a Terraria Server (2026 Guide)

  • 6 min read
  • Updated 7 October 2026
  • ESAGAMES Team

Video tutorial

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A beginner-friendly walkthrough for running your own Terraria server — use the built-in dedicated server, pick or create a world, set the port and password, open the port and invite friends. Plus TShock for plugins and the one-click hosted route.

Terraria can be hosted two ways: self-host the dedicated server that ships with the game (or the free Linux server from terraria.org), or use a managed host. Self-hosting is free but ties up a PC, exposes your home IP and needs port-forwarding; a host gives you a 24/7, DDoS-protected server with a panel for a couple of euros a month.

For plugins, permissions and an economy, most public servers run TShock instead of the vanilla server — we cover both.

What you'll need

Set up a Terraria server, step by step

Keep it smooth and fun

Common problems & fixes

Terraria is a trademark of Re-Logic. ESAGAMES is an independent hosting provider and is not affiliated with or endorsed by Re-Logic. You must own a legitimate copy of the game to play.

Frequently asked questions

How do I make a Terraria server?

Run TerrariaServer.exe from your Terraria install folder (or the Linux dedicated server files), create or choose a world, then set the port (7777 by default), the maximum players and an optional password. Open TCP port 7777 on your router and firewall, and friends join through Multiplayer → Join via IP using your public IP.

Is it free to make a Terraria server?

Yes, self-hosting is free — the dedicated server ships with the game (and a free Linux build is on terraria.org). It does tie up a PC and needs port-forwarding; a managed host runs it online for you for a couple of euros a month.

What port does Terraria use?

The default is TCP 7777. Forward it at home so friends can connect, or let a host handle it.

How much RAM does a Terraria server need?

A vanilla server needs only about 1–2 GB. TShock with many plugins, or a tModLoader modded server, wants more.

What is TShock and do I need it?

TShock is a server replacement that adds permissions, commands, anti-grief and economy features. You do not need it for a small friends server, but it is the standard for public ones.

How do friends join my server?

They pick "Join via IP" in the multiplayer menu and enter your public IP (or domain) and port. Make sure the port is reachable.

Can I use my single-player world?

Yes. Copy your .wld world file to the server and load it on startup, or set autocreate/worldname to point at it.

Go deeper on this

Guides and explainers that pair with this fix — from our guides and blog.

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