Valheim Server Administration — Complete Guide
Administer your Valheim dedicated server. Console commands, world management, mod installation with BepInEx, and community management.
Server Console Commands
Core admin commands: help (list all commands), kick <name/ip> (remove player), ban <name/ip>, unban <ip>, banned (list banned players), save (force world save), and info (server performance). Connect as admin by adding your Steam ID to adminlist.txt. Admin commands work from the in-game console (F5) or through the server console. Schedule automated saves via control panel every 30 minutes for safety.
Mod Installation with BepInEx
BepInEx is the mod loader for Valheim. Install by extracting BepInEx to the server directory. Mods go in BepInEx/plugins/. Popular mods: Valheim Plus (comprehensive QoL mod — stack size changes, crafting from chests, shared map), Epic Loot (adds Diablo-style loot system), Creature Level and Loot Control (scales difficulty), and Better Trader (more trader items). Install mods one at a time and test before opening to public. All players must have the same mods installed client-side.
World Management
World files are in /worlds/. Regular tasks: backup world files before mod updates, use world save tools to fix corrupted areas, reset specific biomes (via mods) instead of full world wipe, and manage world seed — changing seed generates new world (use with caution). Valheim worlds can persist for months — plan for progression pacing. Some communities use seasonal world resets (every 3-6 months) to keep gameplay fresh.
Community Management for Valheim
Valheim is cooperative PvE-focused. Set rules: building proximity (respect neighbor bases), resource sharing (public vs private farms), boss progression (kill bosses together at scheduled times), PvP (most servers disable — enable if community wants it), and base abandonment policy (remove structures after 30 days inactive). Regular events: boss fights, building competitions, exploration expeditions. Cooperative game works best with active community management.
Performance for Large Communities
Valheim's world simulation is CPU-intensive. 10+ concurrent players: 4GB RAM, 3 vCPU. For large builds (massive player bases, complex terrain modifications): upgrade to 8GB RAM. Server tick rate drops with many players in different areas — the world is simulated as one large instance. Reduce active area tracking with mods for 15+ player servers. Our Valheim plans scale from 2GB to 12GB.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can players join with mods if the server doesn't have them?
No — server and players need matching mods. If the server has BepInEx with Valheim Plus installed, players need Valheim Plus client-side as well. Mod mismatch prevents connection.
How do I prevent griefing on a public Valheim server?
Valheim has no built-in anti-grief. Use mods: Valheim Plus has structure protection settings, Ward mod adds area claiming (like Minecraft GriefPrevention). Set server to invite-only or whitelist trusted players. Keep world backups to rollback grief incidents.
Still have questions?
Our support team is available 24/7 on Discord. Join our community for real-time help from engineers who run game servers.