How to Host a Factorio Server

Welcome, Dev, to this journal article on how to host a Factorio server. Factorio is a popular real-time strategy game where players create and manage factories for building and launching rockets. Hosting a server allows players from all over the world to connect and play together. In this article, we will guide you through the process of hosting your own Factorio server step-by-step, so you can enjoy multiplayer gaming with your friends and other players.

What You Need to Host A Factorio Server

Before we dive into the technicalities of how to host a Factorio server, let’s first take a look at what you’ll need to get started.

Once you have the above requirements, you are ready to proceed with the next steps.

Step-by-Step Guide to Host a Factorio Server

Step 1: Download and Install the Factorio Server

The first step is to download and install the Factorio server on your computer. Follow these steps:

1. Open a web browser on the computer and go to the Factorio website.
2. Download the latest version of the Factorio Headless Server for your operating system.
3. Once downloaded, extract the contents of the file to a folder on your computer.
4. Run the “factorio-init” file to configure the server settings. This file is located in the extracted folder.

By running the “factorio-init” file, you will be able to configure various server settings like the server name, game mode, game settings, and more.

Step 2: Configure the Server Settings

Once you run the “factorio-init” file, the settings page will open up where you can configure the server settings. These settings include:

• The server name and description
• The game mode (PvP, cooperative, etc.)
• The server password
• The number of players allowed
• The game settings like the world size, starting resources, and more.

Make sure to configure the settings according to your preferences, and don’t forget to save the changes before exiting.

Step 3: Start the Server

After configuring the server settings, start the server by running the “factorio” file in the extracted folder. This will start the server in console mode, and you should see the server’s IP address and port number displayed on the screen.

Additionally, you might want to configure your router to forward the Factorio port (default is 34197) to your server computer’s IP address, so that players from outside your local network can join the server.

Step 4: Join the Server

To join the server, launch the Factorio game on your client computer and select “play multiplayer” from the main menu. Enter the server’s IP address and port number, and click connect. If you have set a password for the server, you will be prompted to enter it before joining.

Once you successfully join the server, you can start playing with other players.

FAQ About Hosting a Factorio Server

1. How many players can join a Factorio server?

The number of players that can join a Factorio server depends on the server settings. The default maximum number of players is 10, but this can be increased or decreased in the server settings.

2. Can I run a Factorio server on a VPS or cloud server?

Yes, you can run a Factorio server on a VPS or cloud server. However, make sure that the server meets the minimum hardware requirements for Factorio and that you have a stable internet connection for the best performance.

3. Can I use mods on my Factorio server?

Yes, you can use mods on your Factorio server. You can download mods from the official Factorio mod portal and install them on the server. Make sure that all players have the same mods installed to avoid any compatibility issues.

4. What is the server tickrate?

The server tickrate is the rate at which the server processes the game mechanics. The default Factorio server tickrate is 60, but it can be increased or decreased in the server settings. A higher tickrate results in smoother gameplay but requires more processing power from the server.

5. Can I save and load game progress on my Factorio server?

Yes, you can save and load game progress on your Factorio server. This allows you to continue playing your game from where you left off, or to load a previously saved game. To save the game progress, use the /save command in the server console or in-game console.

Conclusion

Hosting a Factorio server is easy and straightforward, and it allows players to enjoy multiplayer gaming with their friends and other players. By following the steps outlined in this article, you should be able to host your own Factorio server in no time. Don’t forget to configure the server settings to your preferences, and to invite your friends to join you for some factory building fun.