Palworld Dedicated Server Setup Guide

Hosting a dedicated server in Palworld unlocks persistent multiplayer worlds where you and your friends can build, capture creatures, and explore without interruptions. This guide provides a complete walkthrough for setting up your own server on Windows or Linux, ensuring stable performance for up to 32 players.

Why Choose a Dedicated Server?

Dedicated servers run independently of your game client, offering 24/7 availability, reduced lag, and customizable rules. Unlike peer-to-peer hosting, they prevent progress loss if the host disconnects. Ideal for clans or long-term bases, these servers support mods and advanced settings for tailored experiences.

System Requirements

Before starting, verify your hardware meets Palworld’s demands:

• OS: Windows 10/11 (64-bit) or Linux (Ubuntu 20.04+)
• CPU: Quad-core 3.0 GHz or better (e.g., Intel i5 or AMD Ryzen 5)
• RAM: 16 GB minimum, 32 GB recommended for 20+ players
• Storage: 20 GB SSD space for server files and saves
• Network: Stable upload speed of 10 Mbps+, static IP preferred

For cloud hosting, services like DatHost scale resources dynamically.

Installing Steam or SteamCMD

Palworld’s dedicated server (App ID: 2394010) requires Steam tools.

Windows with Steam Client

1. Launch Steam and switch to the ‘Tools’ filter in your Library.
2. Search ‘Palworld Dedicated Server’ and install it.

Windows/Linux with SteamCMD

SteamCMD is lightweight for headless setups.

1. Download from Valve’s official site: developer.valvesoftware.com/wiki/SteamCMD.
2. Extract to a folder, e.g., C:\steamcmd.
3. Run steamcmd.exe +login anonymous +app_update 2394010 validate +quit to fetch files.

On Linux: ./steamcmd.sh +login anonymous +app_update 2394010 validate +quit.

Initial Server Launch and Config Generation

Run the server once to create files.

1. Navigate to steamapps\common\PalServer (Windows) or equivalent.
2. Execute PalServer.exe (Windows) or ./PalServer.sh (Linux).
3. Wait 2 minutes for configs to generate, then close.

Configuring Server Settings

Edit Pal\Saved\Config\WindowsServer\PalworldSettings.ini (adjust path for Linux).

Key parameters:

Copy from DefaultPalworldSettings.ini and customize. Add -log flag for debugging.

Port Forwarding Essentials

To allow external connections:

• Open UDP/TCP ports: 8211 (game), 25575 (query), 27015 (RCON optional).
• Access router settings (usually 192.168.1.1), forward to server PC’s local IP.
• Find IP via ipconfig (Windows) or ifconfig (Linux).

Test with telnet your-external-ip 8211. Use noip.com for dynamic IPs.

Launching the Server

Create a batch file for easy starts (start_server.bat):

@echo offset SERVER_PATH=C:\Program Files (x86)\Steam\steamapps\common\PalServercd /d "%SERVER_PATH%"start PalServer.exe -ServerName="YourServer" -port=8211 -players=32 -log -publiclobbypause

For Linux: ./PalServer.sh -ServerName="YourServer" -port=8211 .... Press ‘Play Palworld Dedicated Server’ if prompted.

Connecting to Your Server

1. In Palworld, select ‘Join Multiplayer’.
2. Enter your-external-ip:8211 or local 127.0.0.1:8211.
3. Use password if set.

Server appears in browser if public.

Performance Optimization

• Threads: Add -useperfthreads -NoAsyncLoadingThread.
• RAM: Monitor with Task Manager; increase virtual memory if needed.
• Mods: Use Palworld Manager for easy integration.
• Backups: Schedule saves from Pal\Saved\SaveGames.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

Advanced: Linux Deployment

For VPS like AWS or DigitalOcean:

1. Install dependencies: apt update && apt install lib32gcc-s1.
2. SteamCMD install as above.
3. Screen/tmux for background: screen -S palworld ./PalServer.sh ....

Cloud Hosting Alternatives

If self-hosting is complex, try GPortal or DatHost for one-click setups with auto-updates.

FAQs

Do I need to own Palworld?

Yes, install the base game first.

Can I run on a laptop?

Possible for 4-8 players, but desktops/VPS better for stability.

How to update the server?

Steam: Right-click > Properties > Updates. SteamCMD: Re-run app_update.

Supports crossplay?

Yes, PC, Xbox via Steam/Epic.

Mods on dedicated?

Use server-side modloaders like InfiniteCraft.