How to set up a Valheim dedicated server (password, backups and errors)

A Valheim dedicated server keeps your world online for your whole group.

Launch options

• -name: the server name in the list
• -port: game port, 2456 by default
• -world: the world name (also the save file name)
• -password: the password to join
• -crossplay: let players on Xbox and Microsoft Store join

The password must be at least 5 characters and must not be part of the server name.

Ports

Valheim uses UDP ports starting at 2456 (2456 to 2458).

How to join

• In Steam, open the server browser, choose Add Server and enter your IP with the port plus one (for example 2457 if your game port is 2456).
• With crossplay, join using the join code shown in the server log.

Backups

Back up your world files (.fwl and .db). Valheim keeps a few older backups automatically, but copy them yourself before updates.

Common errors

• "Incompatible version": the server and players must run the same Valheim version. Update both.
• Password is rejected: it must be 5 or more characters and not inside the server name.
• Server not in the list: it can take a few minutes. Join with the IP and port plus one instead.
• World won't load: restore your latest backup of the .fwl and .db files.