Ever dreamt of exploring the stars with friends in Empyrion – Galactic Survival, but unsure how to host your own server? You’re not alone. Setting up a dedicated server is the key to creating a smooth, customized multiplayer experience—whether it’s for close pals or an entire community.
Understanding the basics of server hosting is crucial for seamless gameplay, better control, and fewer headaches. In this article, you’ll find straightforward steps, practical tips, and helpful insights to get your Empyrion server up and running.
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How to Host an Empyrion: Galactic Survival Server
Empyrion: Galactic Survival offers a thrilling blend of survival, exploration, and multiplayer cooperation set in an expansive sci-fi universe. Hosting your own dedicated server in Empyrion opens up a new dimension of gameplay, allowing you and your friends or community members to shape the world as you see fit. Whether you’re aiming for tight-knit co-op play or a bustling multiplayer universe, understanding the ins and outs of Empyrion server hosting is essential.
Below, you’ll find a comprehensive guide to Empyrion: Galactic Survival server hosting — covering what it is, your hosting options, setup processes, unique benefits, potential challenges, practical advice, and answers to frequently asked questions.
What Is Empyrion Server Hosting?
Empyrion server hosting is the process of setting up a dedicated environment where multiple players can join and play in the same persistent world of Empyrion: Galactic Survival. This environment can be managed by you (DIY hosting) or by specialized game server providers. Hosting gives you control over game settings, mods, player access, and performance, creating a space defined by your rules and community standards.
Hosting solutions typically fall into two categories:
- Self-hosted (DIY): You use your own hardware and internet connection.
- Game server providers: You rent a server from a professional company, and they manage infrastructure for you.
Methods for Hosting an Empyrion Server
Let’s break down the two main options with their benefits and limitations.
1. Self-Hosting: Setting Up Your Own Dedicated Server
If you have a reliable PC and internet connection, you can host your own Empyrion server. This option is often free aside from your electricity and bandwidth costs.
Steps to Self-Host
- System Requirements
- A dedicated PC (not your main gaming rig if you want smooth performance).
- Modern CPU, at least 8GB RAM, and a stable broadband connection.
- Windows OS is supported out-of-the-box; Linux supports via Wine.
- Download the Server Software
- Obtain the Empyrion Dedicated Server (EDS) tool via the Steam Library.
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SteamCMD is another utility for power users.
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Configure Your Server
- Edit the configuration files to set server name, password, max players, game world, and other settings.
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Adjusts parameters like difficulty, resource spawn, PvP/PvE directives.
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Open Network Ports
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Forward required ports on your router and firewall (default: TCP/UDP 30000-30004).
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Start Your Server
- Launch EDS and monitor the console for errors.
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Test joining from your local machine before inviting others.
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Share Your Server
- Share your public IP address and port with your friends or community.
Pros of Self-Hosting
- Complete control over files, mods, and settings.
- No recurring rental costs.
- Great for small, private communities.
Cons
- Requires technical knowledge and troubleshooting skills.
- Your home bandwidth and hardware limit performance.
- Host PC must be on 24/7 for persistent play.
- Exposes your home IP address to the public if not managed carefully.
2. Renting from a Professional Game Server Provider
Most multiplayer communities prefer using a game server provider because it’s simple, reliable, and scalable.
How It Works
You rent a slot on a professional server hosted in a data center, often with options to customize everything from hardware specs to game settings.
Popular Providers
Several well-known providers offer Empyrion server hosting, including:
– Nitrado
– GPORTAL
– GTXGaming
– Host Havoc
– Empower Servers
– Game Host Bros
– Gameteam
Typical Setup Steps
- Sign Up and Choose Your Plan
- Select your preferred provider.
- Choose the number of player slots, location, and subscription length.
- Some allow for instant setup; others may require manual configuration.
- Server Configuration
- Use the provider’s web interface to set server name, password, world seed, max players, and in-game settings.
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Mod installation and updates are often managed through a simpleone-click system.
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Manage and Monitor
- Access real-time stats, restart server remotely, and change settings using user-friendly control panels.
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FTP access is usually available for advanced configuration or mods.
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Invite Players
- Share your server’s IP and port or make it visible in the Empyrion public server browser.
Pros of Using a Provider
- No worries about hardware, internet speed, or maintenance.
- 24/7 uptime and customer support in case of issues.
- Scalability — easily upgrade slots or features as your community grows.
- Data backups and DDoS protection included by many hosts.
- Global server locations reduce latency for international players.
Cons
- Monthly or yearly costs.
- Limited by provider’s feature set and server management interface.
- Changing certain advanced settings may require extra steps or support tickets.
Key Benefits of Running Your Own Server
Whether you self-host or use a provider, running a server gives you unique powers over your multiplayer experience:
- Customization: Control game rules, mod support, difficulty, and world setup.
- Community Building: Foster a persistent world for your friends or a wider audience.
- Persistence: Worlds stay online, even if you log off.
- Event Creation: Schedule events, competitions, or roleplay scenarios.
- Moderation: Kick or ban troublemakers and enforce your own server rules.
Challenges & Considerations
While server hosting is rewarding, it does come with responsibilities and hurdles.
Technical Challenges
- Understanding config files and settings.
- Managing automatic updates (which can affect mods or break worlds).
- Keeping regular backups to prevent data loss.
Cost Factors
- Self-hosting uses your electricity and possibly increases your ISP bill.
- Providers’ prices range based on number of player slots, RAM, and extras.
- Some hosts offer affordable entry plans; others target performance or premium support.
Security Risks
- DDoS attacks mostly a concern for public servers, but providers often mitigate this.
- Home-hosting exposes your network—using a VPN or RCON passwords can help protect sensitive data.
Practical Tips & Best Practices
Here’s how to get the most from your Empyrion server:
- Back Up Regularly: Always have recent backups of world files before updates.
- Automate Restarts: Scheduled restarts help maintain stability and clear memory leaks.
- Test Settings: Tweak game parameters and mods in a private world before a full launch.
- Moderation Tools: Have admin accounts and commands set up to deal with disruptive players.
- Limit Player Count: Don’t exceed your system (or plan’s) capacity, or performance will tank.
- Read Community Forums: User communities provide scripts, troubleshooting guides, and advice.
- Monitor Performance: Watch for lag, crashes, or desyncs—address issues quickly to maintain a fun experience.
Cost-Saving Advice
Want an affordable Empyrion hosting experience? Try these tips:
- Share with Friends: Divide rental or electricity costs among your player group.
- Pick the Right Size: Only pay for player slots you need—upgrade if your community grows.
- Choose Distant Data Centers Wisely: Lower-cost locations might be available, but ensure they’re close enough to reduce lag.
- Look for Promotions: Hosts periodically run discounts for new customers.
- Prepay for Savings: Longer plans (quarterly or yearly) often cost less per month.
Concluding Summary
Hosting an Empyrion: Galactic Survival server unlocks a unique realm of multiplayer gaming, giving you the tools to build your own universe. Whether you jump into self-hosting for full control or choose the convenience of a professional game server provider, careful planning brings a smoother, more enjoyable experience for everyone. Remember to weigh the workload and costs against the joy of running a thriving Empyrion community.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
How many players can join my Empyrion server?
Most server hosts allow from 10 up to 100 or more player slots. The actual limit depends on your hardware specs or the plan you purchase, as well as the complexity of your world and mods.
Do I need technical skills to host a server?
Basic host setup is straightforward, especially with professional providers offering web interfaces. Self-hosting requires more technical knowledge (port forwarding, file management, backups), but there’s plenty of community help available.
Can I install mods on my Empyrion server?
Yes! Modding is fully supported both for self-hosted and rented servers. Providers often include one-click mod installations or FTP upload access for custom content.
What happens if my server crashes or loses data?
Regularly backing up your world is essential. Many game server providers offer automatic backups, but it’s a good habit to manually back up files after major changes or updates.
How expensive is it to host an Empyrion server?
Self-hosting may only cost you for increased internet and electricity use. Professional hosts range from about $10 to $30+ per month, depending on player slots, RAM, and additional features. Special promotions and long-term plans can reduce costs.
Whether you’re starting a cozy adventure with a few friends or building a galaxy-spanning community, Empyrion server hosting puts you in the pilot’s seat. Ready to launch your universe? The stars (and planets) await!