Valheim Linux Server

1. Server Requirements:

• Operating System: Ubuntu 20.04 or later
• Hardware:
  
  • CPU: 2-4 cores (minimum)
  • RAM: 4GB (minimum), 8GB+ recommended
  • SSD storage: 1GB+ for Valheim files
  • Network bandwidth: sufficient for expected player count

2. Server Setup:

• Install Ubuntu Server:
  
  • Download Ubuntu Server from https://ubuntu.com/download/server
  • Create a bootable USB drive or use a virtual machine
  • Follow the installation wizard
• Update Packages:
  

  sudo apt update
  sudo apt upgrade
  

• Install SteamCMD:
  

  sudo apt install steamcmd
  

3. Create Valheim User:

sudo adduser valheim

4. Download Valheim Server Files:

su valheim
steamcmd +login anonymous +force_install_dir /home/valheim/valheimserver +app_update 896660 validate +quit

5. Configure Server:

• Navigate to the server directory:
  

  cd /home/valheim/valheimserver
  

• Create a configuration file (start_server.sh):
  

  nano start_server.sh
  

• Paste the following content, adjusting values as needed:
  

  #!/bin/sh
  
  ./valheim_server.x86_64 -name "My Valheim Server" -port 2456 -password "secret" -world "Dedicated"

• Make the script executable:
  

  chmod +x start_server.sh
  

6. Open Firewall Ports:

• Allow ports 2456-2458 for Valheim:
  

  sudo ufw allow 2456/udp
  sudo ufw allow 2457/udp
  sudo ufw allow 2458/udp
  

7. Start the Server:

./start_server.sh

8. Connect to the Server:

• Run Valheim on your client machine.
• Click “Join Game” and enter the server’s IP address or hostname.
• Provide the server password if set.

9. Additional Tips:

• Consider using a tool like LinuxGSM for easier management: https://linuxgsm.com/
• Configure a systemd service for automatic startup and management.
• Regularly update the server files and plugins.
• Backup server data regularly.
• Monitor server resources and adjust settings as needed.