Valheim server settings and world management

A Valheim dedicated server runs 24/7 and provides your group with a stable world that is accessible regardless of who is online. In this article we cover all server settings, explain how to manage worlds and give tips for backups and multiple worlds.

Basic settings

The server settings are configured through the startup parameters of the server process. The most important parameters:

Enabling crossplay

Since the crossplay update, PC players (Steam) can play together with Xbox and Game Pass players. Add the parameter -crossplay to the startup command line. Players find the server through the in-game server browser or by manually entering the IP and password.

Note: crossplay servers use a different network protocol. Players who use Steam direct connect need to switch to the crossplay method.

World files

Valheim saves worlds as two files:

• WorldName.fwl: metadata about the world (seed, name)
• WorldName.db: the actual world data (terrain, buildings, enemies)

These files are located in the folder ~/.config/unity3d/IronGate/Valheim/worlds_local/ on Linux. On Windows the path is %AppData%\LocalLow\IronGate\Valheim\worlds_local\.

Making backups

Valheim creates automatic backups by default, but these are limited. For a reliable backup strategy:

1. Stop the server or wait for an automatic save.
2. Copy both world files (.fwl and .db) to a safe location.
3. Give the backup a clear name with the date, for example MyWorld_2026-09-13.db.

Schedule daily backups, preferably at a quiet time. Through the HostValues game panel you can set up automatic backups.

Restoring a world from backup

1. Stop the server.
2. Rename or remove the current world files.
3. Copy the backup files to the world folder and rename them to the original names.
4. Start the server.

Test after restoring whether everything loaded correctly before inviting players.

Multiple worlds

On a single server you can manage multiple worlds by changing the -world parameter. Each world gets its own set of files. To switch:

1. Stop the server.
2. Change the -world parameter to the name of the desired world.
3. Start the server again.

To truly run multiple worlds simultaneously, you need multiple server instances, each on a different port.

World seed and generation

The world in Valheim is procedurally generated based on a seed. The same seed always generates the same map. You can choose a seed through the -world name: if the world does not exist, a new one is generated. Popular seeds with favorable spawns and boss locations are shared on community forums.

Server modifiers

Valheim has added built-in difficulty modifiers:

• Combat: adjusts enemy strength (easier, default, harder).
• Death Penalty: how much skill you lose on death.
• Resources: resource amount per hit.
• Raids: frequency and intensity of enemy raids on your base.
• Portals: whether portals restrict items (vanilla) or allow everything through.

These modifiers are set when creating the world and cannot be changed afterwards without starting a new world.

Can I move a world from my own PC to the server?

Yes. Copy the two world files (.fwl and .db) from your local computer to the world folder on the server. Make sure the file names match the -world parameter. Start the server and your local world is available as a dedicated server.

How much RAM does a Valheim server need?

For 2 to 5 players, 2 to 3 GB of RAM is sufficient. With 6 to 10 players and extensive bases, 4 to 6 GB is the wiser choice. The Ashlands and Mistlands biomes are heavier than earlier biomes. Monitor memory usage through the game panel and upgrade when the server stutters.