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What is a Palworld server?BenefitsChallengesHow to decideHow to set it upNext stepsAdditional resources
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Should you use a dedicated server for Palworld? Benefits & challenges

Loving your Palworld adventure but getting frustrated by the four-player limit? It’s a headache when your entire multiplayer session has to end simply because the host logs off. If you’re looking to create a bigger, more persistent world for your friends, a dedicated server might be the answer. Unlike shared servers, a Palworld dedicated server provides exclusive resources, ensuring lag-free multiplayer gameplay without interruptions.

But is it the right choice for you? This guide will help you decide. We’ll explore the real benefits, potential challenges, and costs involved, so you can make an informed decision without the technical jargon. Let’s figure out the best way to host your Palworld adventures.

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What is a Palworld dedicated server?

A Palworld dedicated server is a private, physical machine used exclusively for hosting your game world. This means your Palworld universe stays online and active 24/7, even when you’re not logged in. Dedicated servers provide exclusive access to resources, ensuring smoother gameplay, reduced lag, and improved stability. This results in a more enjoyable gaming experience.

Dedicated servers use a physical machine solely for hosting a game, unlike shared hosting where multiple games run on the same server. This setup allows users to customize server settings, install mods, and manage game files without interference. The result is a highly optimized environment capable of handling the complexities of multiplayer gaming.

In contrast, hosting a local game involves using a personal computer or console to run the game server. While feasible for small groups, it often leads to performance issues. Local hosting can result in lag, disconnections, and an inability to support larger player bases. A dedicated server eliminates these problems, providing a robust solution for an engaging and seamless Palworld experience.

Think of it this way: local hosting is like a party in your room; the fun stops when you leave. Shared hosting is like an apartment where you can be slowed down by “noisy neighbors.” A dedicated server is like owning a private house. It’s always open for your friends, all the resources are yours, and you make the rules. This setup provides the best performance and stability for a growing community.

Benefits of using a dedicated server for Palworld

Leveraging a dedicated server for Palworld can significantly enhance your gaming experience. Key benefits include:

  • Superior performance and scale. A dedicated server provides exclusive hardware resources, like CPU and RAM, solely for your game. This allows you to host up to 32 players, which is a massive leap from the standard four-player limit. The result is that your large-scale base-building projects and simultaneous Pal battles remain incredibly smooth and responsive, without the frustrating lag that often happens in less powerful hosting environments.
  • A persistent, 24/7 world. Since the server runs independently of any player’s PC, your Palworld instance is always online. The server constantly listens for connections through its network gateway, typically port 8211, allowing your friends to join at any time from anywhere. This creates a truly living world where your bases stay active, your Pals continue working, and the adventure never has to stop just because the host logged off.
  • Unmatched control and customization. You get full administrative access to the server’s configuration files, giving you total control over the game’s rules. You can adjust settings like XP gain, Pal spawn rates, and resource gathering to your liking. Crucially, this setup fully supports the installation of mods, allowing you to add custom content, new game mechanics, and unique Pals to create a one-of-a-kind experience for your community.

Choosing a dedicated server for Palworld enhances your experience and creates an inviting space for friends and fellow gamers to connect and thrive together. The benefits of a Palworld dedicated server are evident in the improved performance and customization capabilities it offers.

Challenges of using a dedicated server for Palworld

While dedicated servers offer an incredible experience, it’s wise to consider a few factors before jumping in. These are important considerations to ensure you choose the right path for you and your friends.

  • Financial commitment. Running a high-performance server involves a real-world cost. Renting from a hosting provider typically ranges from $10 to $50 per month, depending on the server’s power and player capacity. This is a key consideration for players on a tight budget or for groups who might not play frequently enough to justify a recurring expense.
  • Technical setup and maintenance. A self-managed server requires some technical comfort to get started. You’ll be responsible for the initial setup, which can include tasks like port forwarding and firewall configuration to allow other players to connect. It also requires ongoing maintenance, such as installing game updates and server patches to keep everything running smoothly. This can be a hurdle for those who aren’t familiar with server management and prefer a simple, plug-and-play solution.
  • Security responsibilities. When you run your own server, you are also in charge of its security. An internet-facing server can be a target for malicious activity like DDoS attacks, which attempt to knock it offline. While many hosting companies offer protection, it’s still a factor to be aware of, especially for those looking to build a large, public community.

How to decide if you need a dedicated server

So, are Palworld dedicated servers worth it? Yes, they absolutely are, if your gaming needs have outgrown the limits of standard four-player co-op. A dedicated server is the best solution for creating a large, persistent, and customized world, or uploading an existing world, but it’s not necessary for everyone. This framework will help you determine if it’s the right investment for you.

A dedicated server is likely your best choice in these scenarios:

  • Choose a dedicated server when your player count is growing. If you regularly play with more than four people or want to build a community of up to 32 players, a dedicated server is essential to handle the load without performance issues.
  • Choose a dedicated server when you need 24/7 uptime. If your friends are in different time zones or you want the world to stay active for Pal automation and progress even when you’re offline, only an always-on dedicated server can provide that.
  • Choose a dedicated server when performance is a top priority. If you’re tired of lag during intense battles or stuttering in a heavily developed base, the exclusive resources from a dedicated server will ensure a smooth experience for everyone.
  • Choose a dedicated server when you want full control and mods. If you dream of customizing game rules, tweaking spawn rates, or installing community-made mods for new features, you need the administrative freedom that a dedicated server offers.

Your hosting options at a glance

To help you visualize the trade-offs, here’s a quick comparison of your main hosting choices. You can either host the game locally (standard co-op), rent a pre-configured dedicated server, or build and manage one yourself (self-hosting).

FeatureLocal Co-opRented Dedicated ServerSelf-Hosted Dedicated Server
Max players4.Up to 32.Up to 32.
Monthly costFree.$10 – $50+.Your hardware and electricity costs.
Technical skillLow.Low to medium.High.
UptimeOnly when the host is playing.24/7 guaranteed.24/7, as long as your machine is on.

Alternative hosting options like peer-to-peer hosting and cloud hosting may be cost-effective or offer flexibility, but they may not deliver the same level of performance and control as a dedicated server, particularly for larger gaming sessions.

should you use a dedicated server for palworld

How to set up a Palworld dedicated server

Setting up a dedicated server for Palworld can significantly enhance your gaming experience by providing optimal performance, stability, and control. The process involves a few key steps:

  • Self-hosting: Ensure your hardware meets the game’s requirements. Install the necessary software, including the game server application and any dependencies. Configure your router to allow port forwarding for external connections. Adjust server settings according to your preferences, such as player limits and game rules. Regularly monitor performance and troubleshoot any issues.
  • Renting a dedicated server: Look for hosting providers that offer tailored solutions for gaming servers. A reputable provider will typically include features like one-click installations, DDoS protection, and 24/7 customer support. This allows you to focus on enjoying the game rather than managing the server.

Learn more:

How to set up a Palworld dedicated server →

Server requirements, step-by-step instructions, tips and more to help you get started.

Dedicated server hosting providers

For most players, renting a server is the easiest and fastest way to get started. But with so many options available, choosing the right hosting provider can feel overwhelming. Instead of focusing on a single “best” choice, it’s more helpful to know what to look for so you can find the perfect fit for your needs.

When evaluating different hosts, here are the key features to consider:

  • Easy setup and management. Look for providers that offer a one-click Palworld installer. This automates the entire setup process, letting you launch your server in minutes. A simple, web-based control panel is also essential for easily managing game settings, updating the server, and restarting it without needing any command-line skills.
  • Guaranteed performance and uptime. A good host will be transparent about the hardware they use and offer an uptime guarantee of 99.9% or higher. This ensures your server is reliable and has the necessary processing power and RAM to keep your world running smoothly, even with 32 players online.
  • Robust DDoS protection. This is a non-negotiable feature. DDoS protection defends your server from malicious attacks designed to overwhelm it and knock it offline. Without it, your server is vulnerable, and your gaming sessions could be easily disrupted.
  • Responsive customer support. Check if the provider offers 24/7 customer support. If you run into an issue, you’ll want access to a knowledgeable team that can help you resolve it quickly and get your world back online.

When you start your search, you’ll find that many services in the game hosting space offer these features in their packages. Prices will vary based on the player slots and server performance you choose, typically falling within the range we discussed earlier. It’s always a good idea to compare a few options to see which one offers the best balance of features and price for your specific needs.

Additional resources

What is a game server? →

A complete beginner’s guide, including different types, how they work, benefits, and more

Peer-to-peer vs dedicated server →

Learn more about P2P servers and how they compare to dedi servers for gaming

How to set up a Palworld dedicated server →

Server requirements, setup, tips, server management, and more