How to Fix a Palworld Server That Crashes on Startup
When a Palworld server starts and then stops within seconds, the console usually gives the best clue. Read it before changing anything.
Check the console first
Open the Console tab and scroll to the last lines before the crash. Look for words such as error, failed, assertion or access violation. Copy them if you need support.
Common causes
- A broken PalWorldSettings.ini.
- A damaged or mismatched save.
- Mods or files added to the server.
- Not enough memory.
- A port already in use.
Settings file
Everything inside OptionSettings must stay on one line with commas between values. One missing bracket or a stray character can stop the server or cause settings to be ignored. Test by temporarily using a fresh copy of the default settings file, then re-apply your changes one at a time.
Save problems
If the crash began right after a restart or a power loss, the world may be damaged. Stop the server, copy the Saved folder for safety, and restore a recent backup. The world folder also contains automatic backups. Our guide on backing up and restoring a Palworld world explains the process.
Updates and mods
After a game update, old mods or custom files can break the server. Remove added files and start the server vanilla. If it runs, add things back one by one.
Memory
Palworld can use a lot of RAM, and usage grows with uptime and bases. If the log ends with out-of-memory messages, schedule regular restarts and consider a larger plan.
Steps
- Stop the server and read the last console lines.
- Back up the Saved folder.
- Restore a clean PalWorldSettings.ini.
- Start vanilla without mods.
- If it still fails, restore the previous save.
- Share the console output with us.
Port conflicts
Default game port is 8211 over UDP. If another service uses it, the server may fail to bind. Your panel assigns ports, so check the Network or Allocations area.
Contact us on Discord with the error text for faster help.