If players want to enjoy Palworld with friends, form clans, or manage operations in the background, a dedicated server is necessary. It stays online even when no one is actively in the game. This guide explains how to connect to and configure a dedicated Palworld server.
Palworld Guides
How to set up a dedicated server through Steam
After purchasing Palworld on Steam, an additional application, Palworld Dedicated Server, becomes available. To set up the personal server for the first time, follow these steps:
- Install and launch the application.
- Right-click on Palworld Dedicated Server in the library, choose Check — View local files.
- Locate DefaultPalWorldSettings.ini and open it with a text editor such as Notepad.
- Copy all data from this file and paste it into the PalWorldSetting.ini document located at …/PalServer/Pal/Saves/Config/WindowsServer.
- Press Ctrl+F to speed up text searching and add the following information:
- Server name — set the server name.
- Server description — add a description if desired.
- Administrator password — create a password for the admin panel and extended commands.
- Server password — set a password to log in to the server.
After this, another application needs installation and configuration.
How to set up SteamCMD
Visit the official SteamCMD site and download the archive from the first step. This archive contains the tool that should be installed off the system drive, for example on disk D:. For convenience, create a separate folder.
Run the application and wait for components to install and data to update. Then enter the following commands on the prompt:
- force_install_dir c:/Palworld_server/ — automatically create the required folders on the disk (C:).
- login — set the login and password.
- log in anonymously — use these credentials to skip the authorization step.
- app_update 2394010 validate — update the folder so the server can start. This update typically takes about five minutes.
- Once finished, verify that the file DefaultPalWorldSettings.ini near Public Gate contains the value 8211.
Now Palworld dedicated server can be opened, running and maintaining the server while the console is active. If the server does not appear in the game, paste the port and IP address into the search box to locate it.
How to open ports on a router
To host a Palworld server, ports 8211 and 8212 must be opened on the device in use. Access the router through a web browser by entering 192.168.0.1 in the address bar.
Note: Port opening works with PPPoE/PPPoE or a static IP address. Using a dynamic IP can complicate setup. It may help to contact the internet provider to discuss options for a stable configuration.
How to set up a paid server
If a 24/7 server is needed but hosting the world personally is not feasible or ports cannot be opened, third-party hosting options are available. Palworld lists several official paid-server choices:
- XGamingServer – the basic plan starts around $10, allowing friends to play and keep the world active; larger groups will require more expensive options.
- Shockbyte – about $12 per month per server, supporting up to 12 players.
- XLGames.pro – a Russian hosting provider with plans starting from 800 rubles, usable for other multiplayer titles as well.
- SRVGame.ru – Moscow-based servers, with prices starting at 1000 rubles; proximity reduces latency for users nearby.
Additionally, many groups and popular creators offer server rentals for activities. Those seeking a free or active server should consider groups that host regular events and sessions.
Other guides
Source: VG Times