How to Host a Valheim Dedicated Server

Valheim has no built-in matchmaking for persistent worlds - someone in the group needs to run a dedicated server. Here's exactly how to get one running for your crew with Norto's Knights, no SteamCMD or port forwarding required.

Dedicated server vs. peer-to-peer

Playing peer-to-peer means whoever hosts has to be online for anyone else to play, and their connection quality becomes everyone's ping. A dedicated server stays online whether or not the host is playing, so your crew can log in on their own schedule and the world keeps running between sessions.

1. Create your account

Register an account first - you'll need one to check out, and you'll need to verify your email before your first order will go through.

2. Choose a plan sized for Valheim

Valheim runs on 2 GB for a small world early on, but bases, tamed creatures, and explored terrain all add memory overhead as your world ages - budget for 8 GB if you expect your world to run for months rather than weeks. Check the full Valheim requirements and browse plans and pricing, then click Order Now on the plan you want.

3. Configure your server at checkout

On the checkout page you'll confirm your plan, pick Valheim from the game dropdown, and name your server. If the plan you picked falls short of Valheim's recommended specs, a warning shows up right there before you pay. Review the order summary, then click Proceed to Payment.

4. Pay securely via Stripe

You'll be taken to Stripe's checkout to complete your subscription - billed monthly in AUD, cancel anytime.

5. We prepare your server

Your server is prepared by our team, and we'll email you connection details once it's ready. Watch the status update from My Servers in your dashboard: Paid -> Provisioning -> Active.

6. Connect and stay backed up

Once your server shows Active, its address appears in My Servers as an IP and port. In the Valheim client, use the in-game server browser or add the server by that IP and port directly. Daily backups are included, so a corrupted world file won't cost your crew months of building.