Wondering how to set up a Conan server for your development team or projects? Hosting your own Conan server can streamline library management, boost collaboration, and give you full control over your C++ dependencies.
With efficient server hosting, you’ll eliminate common bottlenecks and ensure your team always has access to the right packages. In this article, we’ll walk you through the key steps, offer practical tips, and highlight insights to make Conan server hosting easy and effective.
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How to Host a Conan Exiles Server: Your Complete Guide
Setting up a Conan Exiles server is the ultimate way to experience the vast, savage world of the Exiled Lands with friends or community members. Whether you want full control over gameplay settings, privacy, or the ability to mod your survival experience, hosting your own server is the perfect solution.
Let’s break down how Conan Exiles server hosting works, your main options, practical tips, and some insider advice to get your world up and running smoothly.
What Is Conan Exiles Server Hosting?
Conan Exiles is an open-world survival game where players build, conquer, and survive in a challenging environment. While you can play solo or join public servers, hosting a server gives you a private sandbox for yourself and your chosen group.
A Conan Exiles server is a dedicated, always-online world that saves your progress, settings, and player communities. You can either:
– Rent a server from a professional hosting provider
– Set up a dedicated server on your own hardware
Each method has unique benefits and challenges, depending on your priorities.
Conan Exiles Hosting Options
There are two main ways to host a Conan Exiles server:
1. Rented Game Servers (Managed Hosting)
This is the most popular method and appeals to most players.
Key Features:
– No hardware worries: Providers have robust, optimized servers ready to run Conan Exiles 24/7.
– User-friendly panels: Web-based control panels let you configure, restart, and manage your server easily.
– Support: Technical support is available to resolve issues.
– Global locations: Choose server locations close to your players for the best ping and lag-free gameplay.
Notable providers include:
– G-Portal
– GTXGaming
– Nitrado
– Apex Hosting
– Host Havoc
– Shockbyte
– Nodecraft
– Gravel Host
Each provider offers slightly different features, pricing, and locations, but all are suitable for new and experienced server admins.
2. Self-Hosted Dedicated Servers
A more hands-on approach, this involves setting up the server yourself either on a PC at home or through a cloud/VPS provider.
Pros:
– Absolute control over all files and settings
– No recurring hosting fees if using existing hardware
Cons:
– Requires tech-savvy for setup and maintenance
– Home internet connections might struggle with bandwidth and uptime
Step-by-Step Guide: Hosting a Conan Exiles Server
Whether you choose a hosting company or go the DIY route, the fundamental steps are similar. Here’s a guide using managed server hosting as an example:
1. Choose Your Hosting Provider
Consider these factors:
– Server locations (closer is better for low latency)
– Pricing plans, slots (number of players), and features
– Customer support quality
– Mod support (especially for big modded communities)
– Backup and update tools
2. Select a Server Plan
Most hosts let you choose based on:
– Number of player slots (10 to 70+)
– RAM, CPU allocation
– Optional add-ons (anti-cheat, custom mod tools, backup options)
Choose a plan that matches your group size and server ambitions. It’s often best to start small and upgrade as needed.
3. Set Up Server Details
Via the host’s control panel, configure:
– Server name and password (to make it public or private)
– Admin password for server management commands
– Game mode (PvP, PvE, PvE-C)
– Map settings (customize resource rates, XP, etc.)
– Enable/disable mods
4. Start the Server
Most interfaces let you simply hit “Start” or “Launch.” Your server will boot up and appear in the Conan Exiles server browser.
5. Share Connection Info
Give players your server name (and password if private) or the direct IP address to join.
6. Customize & Maintain
As the server owner, you have access to:
– Mod installation tools or Steam workshop integration
– Scheduled backups
– Player management tools (ban/kick, whitelist, admin commands)
– In-game and web admin panels for live tweaking
Hosting Benefits: Why Host Your Own Conan Exiles Server?
- Privacy: Limit your world to friends or a trusted community.
- Customization: Tweak economy, difficulty, rules, and mods to create a unique experience.
- Mod Support: Install custom maps, add new items, or overhaul the entire game with community mods.
- Consistent World: The world is always ‘online’ for persistence, unlike local co-op, which relies on the host being present.
- Admin Tools: Enforce rules, roll back griefing, and enjoy unrestricted access to server-side controls.
Hosting Challenges & Considerations
- Cost: Monthly fees for managed servers. The price depends on slots, location, and extras.
- Technical Knowledge: For self-hosted servers, you need to manage installations, networking (port forwarding), security, and regular updates.
- Maintenance: Regularly monitor server health, apply updates, and deal with potential bugs or player disputes.
- Mods & Updates: Mods can break with new Conan Exiles updates; be prepared for troubleshooting.
- Backups: Accidents or server crashes can wipe progress; frequent backups are essential.
Practical Tips & Best Practices
To ensure a smooth server experience for everyone, keep these tips in mind:
- Choose a location close to your player base to minimize lag.
- Pick a provider with good customer support if you’re new to hosting.
- Name your server clearly, so players know what to expect (e.g., PvP, PvE, Mods).
- Set clear rules and enforce them via admin commands and, if necessary, player whitelists.
- Test mods in small batches before applying lots of changes at once.
- Announce restarts or major updates in advance to avoid disrupting players.
- Enable automated backups, and periodically download a backup locally.
- Keep your game and mods updated for security and performance reasons.
Cost Tips: Getting the Best Value
- Start small: Don’t pay for 70 slots if you only have 10 friends; you can upgrade later.
- Long-term discounts: Many hosts offer lower prices for quarterly or annual payments.
- Avoid unnecessary add-ons: Only pay for features you’ll use (voice chat, DDoS protection, etc.).
- Watch out for hidden fees: Some providers charge setup or mod-installation fees.
- Share costs: If you’re running a friends’ server, consider splitting the bill.
Example of Server Hosting Providers
While there are many reputable Conan Exiles server hosts, the leading companies—each with thousands of hosted servers—provide robust, gamer-focused platforms. Some are better for mod support, others for customer service or cost-effectiveness. It pays to research, but these types of hosts generally offer:
- Fast setup (servers in minutes)
- Full file access for modding
- Automated backups and one-click updates
- DDoS protection for security
- Easy to upgrade or downgrade plans
Self-Hosting: Is It Right for You?
If you have the tech skills and suitable hardware, self-hosting offers:
– No recurring fees
– Maximum customization
But, downsides include:
– Need for high upload bandwidth (at least 5-10 Mbps per 10 players)
– Uptime depends on your PC/internet stability
– Home networks can introduce security risks if misconfigured
– You’re the sole tech support—no host to rescue you
For most players, managed hosting is easier and provides better performance for large or public servers.
Wrapping Up: Start Your Own Age of Survival
Hosting a Conan Exiles server lets you tailor your gameplay, forge communities, and keep your world persistent and unique. Whether you’re aiming for a close-knit clan or a bustling public server, modern game hosting companies make setup quick and hassle-free. Take your time choosing a provider, set up clear ground rules, and enjoy your custom domain in the Exiled Lands.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. How much does Conan Exiles server hosting cost?
Costs typically start around $10 to $15 per month for small servers (10-20 players). Prices vary depending on slots, location, and extra features. Larger servers, additional mods, or premium support may increase the monthly fee.
2. Do I need a powerful computer to host my own Conan Exiles server?
If renting from a provider, you don’t need any special hardware—just a web browser. For self-hosting, a decent multi-core CPU, at least 8GB RAM, and a strong, stable internet connection are required, especially for more than a handful of players.
3. Can I use mods on my Conan Exiles server?
Yes! Most game server hosts provide easy mod support, including Steam Workshop integration or drag-and-drop uploads. Always check mod compatibility with the game version before installing.
4. What happens if an update breaks my server or mods?
Occasionally, game or mod updates may cause incompatibilities. Choose a host with good backup options, and always back up your server data before applying major updates. Check modder communities for quick fixes or updated files.
5. Can I move my Conan Exiles server to another provider?
Absolutely. All reputable hosts allow you to download your world save files. You can then upload these saves to a new host, retaining most if not all progress. Make sure you migrate mods and settings as well.
With this knowledge, you’re ready to start your journey as a Conan Exiles server host—a gateway to adventures limited only by your imagination. May your exile be a legendary one!