How to Make a Valheim Server
Run an always-online Valheim dedicated server so your crew can play any time — install with SteamCMD, set your world and password, optionally add BepInEx mods. Plus the managed route.
A dedicated Valheim server keeps your world online 24/7 — no more "the host has to be on". You install it with SteamCMD (app 896660) and start it with a world name and password.
You can self-host on a small VDS, or use managed Valheim hosting with a panel that handles updates, mods and backups.
What you'll need
A quick checklist before you begin — have these ready and the rest is easy.
- SteamCMD installed, and Steam app 896660 downloaded.
- A world name and a server password of at least 5 characters (different from the server name).
- UDP ports 2456–2457 open.
- (Optional) BepInEx if you want mods — server and clients must match.
Set up a Valheim dedicated server
Install SteamCMD
SteamCMD downloads the dedicated server files. Install it on your server first.
Download the Valheim server (app 896660)
Use SteamCMD to install the Valheim dedicated server.
steamcmd +login anonymous +app_update 896660 validate +quit
Start with a world and password
Launch the server with a name, port, world name and password (the password must be at least 5 characters and different from the server name).
./valheim_server.x86_64 -name "My ESAGAMES Server" -port 2456 -world "Dedicated" -password "secret123" -public 1
Open the ports
Valheim uses UDP 2456–2457. Make sure they're open and reachable (handled for you on managed hosting).
Add BepInEx mods (optional)
For mods, install BepInEx on the server and add mods like Valheim Plus. Server and clients must run matching mods.
Connect and play
In Valheim, use Join > Connect by IP with your address and port, enter the password and sail out. Your world stays online 24/7.
Valheim best practices
Always online
A dedicated server means progress is never lost when the host logs off — play any time.
Back up your world
Schedule backups so a troll or a crash never costs you your longhouse.
Anti-DDoS
Filtering keeps your server reachable with no boots or downtime.
Common problems & fixes
Hit a snag? These are the issues people run into most — and how to solve them.
Server won't start
The password is too short or matches the server name. Use a 5+ character password that differs from the name.
Friends can't find the server
Make sure UDP 2456–2457 are open, and try connecting directly by IP if the public list is slow.
Mods cause crashes or rejections
Every player must run the exact same mods as the server. Mismatched mods cause connection failures.
My old world won't load
Upload both the .db and .fwl files for the world to the worlds folder — you need both.
Skip the setup — host it with ESAGAMES
Want it online 24/7 without leaving your PC on? Our Valheim hosting runs on NVMe behind a multi-Tbps Frankfurt network — vanilla or modded, always online and protected.
Frequently asked questions
How do I make a Valheim server?
Install SteamCMD, download the Valheim dedicated server (app 896660), start it with a world name and a password of at least 5 characters, then connect by IP.
What ports does Valheim use?
Valheim uses UDP ports 2456–2457 by default. Make sure they're open.
How many players can join?
Valheim officially supports up to 10 players per world; our plans handle that comfortably with headroom for mods.
Can I add mods?
Yes — install BepInEx and add mods like Valheim Plus. The server and all clients must run matching mods.
Can I move my existing world over?
Yes — upload your existing .db and .fwl save files to the server's worlds folder and continue where you left off.
Is running a Valheim server allowed?
Yes — the dedicated server is provided officially via SteamCMD. You must own a legitimate copy of Valheim.
Keep reading
Valheim is a trademark of Iron Gate AB / Coffee Stain Publishing. ESAGAMES is an independent hosting provider and is not affiliated with or endorsed by them. The dedicated server is installed via Valve's SteamCMD; you must own a legitimate copy of Valheim.
