Palworld

Palworld Dedicated Server Guide

Running a Palworld dedicated server keeps your Palpagos world online 24/7 without tying up a player's gaming PC. After the 1.0 launch, 1.0.1 hotfix, and balance patch 1.0.3, admins should match server and client builds and understand EOS crossplay limits covered in our multiplayer page.

Hardware Requirements

ComponentMinimumPractical note
RAM16 GB32 GB for 8+ active players / large bases
CPU4 coresSingle-thread performance matters for sim tick
Storage40 GB SSDLeave room for saves, logs, and Steam updates
NetworkUDP 8211Forward 8211 + 8212 on self-hosted boxes

Install with SteamCMD

  1. Install SteamCMD on Windows or Linux.
  2. Run: app_update 2394010 validate for the Palworld dedicated server tool.
  3. Launch PalServer.exe or PalServer.sh once to generate config folders.
  4. Copy DefaultPalWorldSettings.ini into the active PalWorldSettings.ini path under Saved/Config.
  5. Wrap the process in systemd, tmux, or a Windows Service for auto-restart.

Key Settings

  • ServerName — unique name helps console players find you in the community browser
  • PublicPort / PublicIP — set when behind NAT
  • bIsPvP / DeathPenalty — tune for your community rules
  • bEnableInvaderEnemy=false — reduces long-session memory growth
  • bAllowEnemyCampSpawnNearBaseCamp — new in 1.0.3; off by default; set true only if you want enemy camps nearer bases

Updating to 1.0.3

Stop the process, pull the latest dedicated-server build with SteamCMD (app_update 2394010 validate), then restart. Align everyone on 1.0.3 (console build ~1.101.283, ~Aug 11–12, 2026) so clients do not reject the host. After updating, re-check PalWorldSettings.ini for the new bAllowEnemyCampSpawnNearBaseCamp line if your host regenerated defaults.

Crossplay Notes

EOS-enabled dedicated servers can mix supported platforms. Console and Game Pass players typically join through the in-game server search — not raw IP paste. Advertise your server name clearly and keep everyone on the same post-1.0 patch line through 1.0.3.

Managed Hosting Alternative

If port forwarding and daily maintenance are not for you, third-party Palworld hosts provision RAM tiers, automatic backups, and one-click updates. Self-hosting remains free aside from hardware and electricity.

Multiplayer · 1.0.3 Patch · 1.0.1 Hotfix · Base Building

Frequently Asked Questions

What do I need to host a Palworld dedicated server?

A 64-bit Windows or Linux machine with at least 16 GB RAM (32 GB recommended for larger groups), a quad-core CPU, SSD storage, and UDP port 8211 forwarded. Install via Steam or SteamCMD (app ID 2394010).

How do I configure PalWorldSettings.ini?

After first launch, copy DefaultPalWorldSettings.ini into PalWorldSettings.ini under Saved/Config. Edit the live copy in Saved — not the template in the server root. Stop the server before editing or changes may be overwritten.

Does Palworld 1.0 support crossplay on dedicated servers?

Yes for supported EOS builds. Steam, Xbox, PlayStation, and Mac players can join the same community server when crossplay is enabled. Console players usually browse the in-game community server list rather than direct IP.

Which ports must be open?

UDP 8211 is the default game port. UDP 8212 is the query port. Forward both on your router or cloud firewall. Managed hosts open these automatically.

How do I update the server to 1.0.3?

Stop the server, run SteamCMD update for app 2394010, then restart. Keep client and server on the same patch — match players on balance patch 1.0.3 (console build ~1.101.283, Aug 11–12, 2026) after earlier 1.0.1 / 1.0.2 hotfixes.

What is bAllowEnemyCampSpawnNearBaseCamp in 1.0.3?

Added in patch 1.0.3, this PalWorldSettings.ini flag lets hosts stop suppressing enemy camps near base camps. It is off by default — enable only if you want camps closer to bases. Leave it false for safer starter areas.

How do I reduce memory leaks?

Schedule a daily restart, set bEnableInvaderEnemy=false in PalWorldSettings.ini, and limit idle bases. Pocketpair recommends 16 GB minimum because memory use climbs with active players and large worlds.

Related Guides

Version 1.0.3 Patch Notes

August 2026 — Aquatic Kit Lv23, Jetragon tech 70, Holy Water 0.1, oil & fiber buffs

Multiplayer & Voice Chat

Guild roles, voice chat, and server QoL

Version 1.0.1 Hotfix

July 15, 2026 stability patch — save data, campfire burn, PS5, Xbox fixes

Launch Troubleshooting

Delete leftover mods, fix startup crashes, save backups, and server update checklist