How to create a Valheim server? The complete guide

Creating a Valheim server can be done in two ways: self-hosting with the free dedicated tool on Steam (technical and limited) or via a host (paid, but ready in a few seconds). Here are both, step by step.

Method 1: self-host with the dedicated tool

1. Install Valheim Dedicated Server

In your Steam library, enable the display of tools and install Valheim Dedicated Server. It's free and separate from the game itself.

2. Configure the launch file

Edit start_server.bat to set the -name, the -world, the -password and optionally -crossplay. These settings are detailed in our guide How to set up a dedicated Valheim server.

3. Open the ports (the most annoying part)

For your friends to connect from outside, you have to open ports 2456 to 2458 (UDP) on your router and share your public IP. This is where most beginners get stuck: dynamic IP, firewall, CGNAT from certain ISPs…

The limits of self-hosting

• Your PC has to stay on permanently for the server to be accessible.
• Valheim is demanding: hosting and playing on the same machine causes lag on large worlds.
• No Anti-DDoS protection: exposing your personal IP is risky.
• Backups, updates, security: it's all on you.

Method 2: go through a host (the simplest)

A host eliminates the whole technical side: no ports to open, no IP to expose, server online 24/7. At Fly-Serv, creation is instant: you choose your plan, the server is delivered in a few seconds with a ready-to-share address, and the FlyPanel dashboard lets you start it, adjust crossplay and manage files in one click.

Simple rule: to test with friends over a weekend, self-hosting is enough. For a permanent, smooth world, a host is more economical on time… and often on money.

Conclusion

If you're a beginner or aiming for a stable world available 24/7, create your Valheim server with Fly-Serv from 3.99 €/month, crossplay and Anti-DDoS included. Once created, your friends join you in ten seconds: see how to join a server on Valheim.