Ready to gather your friends in Enshrouded and take your adventures to the next level? Setting up your own server transforms gameplay, giving you control, privacy, and a seamless multiplayer experience.
Knowing how to host an Enshrouded server is essential for anyone who wants smoother sessions and a world tailored to their group. It’s the difference between dealing with laggy online matches and enjoying a truly immersive, custom adventure.
In this article, you’ll find step-by-step instructions, helpful tips, and key insights for successfully hosting your own Enshrouded server.
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How to Host an Enshrouded Server: Complete Step-by-Step Guide
Hosting your own Enshrouded server lets you enjoy seamless multiplayer adventures with friends or create an open world for players from around the globe. Whether you’re looking to casually quest together or want persistent worlds for your community, understanding how to set up the perfect server is key.
Below, you’ll learn how to host an Enshrouded server, the difference between the hosting options, step-by-step setup instructions, and practical advice to make your server a success.
Choosing Your Enshrouded Server Hosting Option
Before diving into setup, it’s important to know the different ways you can host Enshrouded:
1. In-Game (Local) Hosting
- Easiest and fastest way to play with friends.
- The server runs directly from your PC while you play.
- Suitable for a small group of friends.
2. Dedicated Server Hosting
- The server runs separately from your game client.
- Offers better performance, uptime, and player capacity.
- Allows you to play and manage the server from different machines.
Tip: If you want your world to be always online—available even when you aren’t playing—a dedicated server is the way to go.
Step-by-Step: Hosting an Enshrouded Server
Hosting Locally Through the Game
This is perfect if you want a quick multiplayer session with friends and don’t need your world running 24/7.
- Launch Enshrouded: Open the game on your PC.
- Select ‘Play’ or ‘Host Game’: From the main menu.
- Create or Load Your World: You can start a new adventure or continue an existing one.
- Adjust the Settings:
- Set the maximum number of players.
- Configure privacy: Make your server public or private.
- Set a password if needed.
- Start Hosting: Your friends can now join via their Friends List or by searching for your session in the server browser.
- Keep the Game Running: The server only stays online if you’re running the game.
Pros:
– No extra software or setup.
– Easy for beginners.
Cons:
– Server only exists while you play.
– Uses your system’s resources for both playing and hosting.
– Limited configuration options.
Setting Up a Dedicated Enshrouded Server
A dedicated server is ideal for persistent worlds and larger groups. It can run on your own hardware or a rented server.
Requirements
- A computer (or rented virtual machine) meeting minimum system specs.
- A stable internet connection.
- Some basic networking knowledge (port forwarding).
Step 1: Download the Dedicated Server Software
- Obtain the dedicated server files through the game platform or official distribution channels.
- These might be accessed via game launchers (like Steam) or as standalone downloads.
Step 2: Install the Server
- Extract and install the files to a folder of your choice (e.g.,
C:\EnshroudedServer). - Make sure you have sufficient disk space and permissions.
Step 3: Configure Server Settings
Inside the server folder, you’ll find configuration files (such as .ini or .json). Open these with a text editor and modify settings:
- Server Name: Appears in public or friends lists.
- Description: Let players know the theme, rules, or special info.
- Password: Protect your world or leave it open for others.
- Player Limit: Set maximum number of players (based on server capabilities).
- Game Settings: Tweak game rules, PvP options, spawn rates, etc.
Tip: Save your configuration and always keep backups of your config and world save files.
Step 4: Set Up Port Forwarding
To allow remote connections, you’ll need to open specific ports on your router:
- Find the required port numbers in the configuration or documentation (commonly, games use UDP ports).
- Log into your router’s web interface.
- Locate the Port Forwarding section.
- Add a rule forwarding the necessary ports to your server PC’s local IP address.
- Save and reboot if necessary.
Tip: Use a tool like “What’s My IP” to let players connect to your external IP if you’re running from home.
Step 5: Run the Server
- Launch the server executable or script.
- On first start, it will generate default settings and world files.
- The console window will display status and information.
Step 6: Join and Invite Players
- Players can join by searching the server list, connecting directly via IP, or using the in-game Friends List.
- Share your server name and password with friends.
- Monitor your server for new connections and manage as needed.
Benefits of Hosting Your Own Enshrouded Server
Hosting gives you:
- Control: Customize world settings, player limits, and gameplay rules.
- Persistence: Your friends can play even when you’re offline (with dedicated servers).
- Community: Foster a group or public community tailored to your style.
- Performance: Dedicated servers reduce lag and can handle more players.
Challenges and Considerations
Some important things to keep in mind:
- Hardware Demands: Dedicated servers consume CPU, RAM, and bandwidth. Ensure your host has enough power.
- Uptime: If running from home, ensure your PC and internet stay on and stable.
- Security: Use passwords and keep ports secure.
- Updates: Regularly update your server to stay compatible with game patches.
Best Practices and Practical Tips
- Back Up Often: Regularly save world and server files to avoid data loss.
- Monitor Logs: Check server logs for issues or unauthorized access.
- Communicate Rules: If public, post clear world rules or guidelines.
- Performance Checks: Test how many players your server can handle smoothly.
- Scheduled Restarts: For large servers, plan restarts to keep things running well.
Cost Tips
Hosting costs can vary based on your approach:
- Hosting at Home: Free, aside from increased electricity and possible internet bandwidth costs.
- Rented Servers: Professional hosting services offer ready-to-play servers starting from a few dollars per month up to more for premium features.
- Look for “pay-as-you-use” models to save money if you only need temporary worlds.
- Hardware Investment: If setting up at home, ensure your PC is equipped—otherwise, consider using older but reliable hardware specifically for the server.
Tip: For smaller groups, in-game hosting is most cost-effective.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
- Can’t Connect: Double-check port forwarding and firewall settings.
- Lag or Performance Drops: Lower the player limit, optimize server settings, and close unnecessary background programs.
- Crashes: Keep server files updated and monitor for corrupt world saves.
- Update Problems: Always back up before updating, as some patches can cause compatibility issues.
Conclusion
Hosting your own Enshrouded server unlocks the full potential of multiplayer gaming. Once you understand the basic setup—whether you choose a simple in-game session or a powerful dedicated server—you’ll have full control over your world. Remember to follow best practices, plan for performance, and stay up-to-date with game updates. With a smoothly running server, you and your friends can embark on unforgettable adventures together.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
How many players can join my Enshrouded server?
Most local servers are optimized for small groups (2–8 players), but dedicated servers can handle larger groups—limited only by the host hardware and network. Always consult the latest server documentation for exact player caps.
Do I need a separate computer to run a dedicated server?
No, but it is recommended for better stability and performance. If you use your main PC, running both the game and server may affect gameplay. For 24/7 worlds, a dedicated PC or cloud server is best.
Can I make my server private or public?
Absolutely. In your server configuration, you can set a password for privacy or mark it as open for others to join. Just share connection info with those you want to invite.
Does hosting a server cost money?
Hosting on your own hardware is free, aside from potential electricity and internet costs. Renting a cloud or professional game server involves a monthly fee, which can range from a few dollars upwards depending on specs.
How do I update my Enshrouded server?
Check for new server files or updates through the official distribution channel. Always make backups before updating. Replace existing server files with new ones carefully to ensure your world is preserved.
By following these steps and tips, you’ll be able to create an enjoyable Enshrouded multiplayer experience tailored exactly to your needs. Happy hosting!