How to Host Starbound Server

Welcome, Dev! If you’re looking to host a Starbound server for your friends or community, you’ve come to the right place. In this article, we’ll guide you through the process of setting up your own server and provide you with tips and advice to ensure your server runs smoothly. Let’s dive in!

Before You Begin

Before setting up your Starbound server, there are a few things you need to keep in mind. Firstly, you should ensure that your computer meets the minimum system requirements for running a server. These include a stable internet connection, at least 4GB of RAM, and a multi-core processor.

Additionally, you should consider the number of players you plan on hosting. A server with 10 players will require less resources than one with 100 players. It’s also important to ensure that you have enough bandwidth to handle the amount of data being transmitted.

Finally, it’s important to note that hosting a server requires a lot of time and effort. You’ll need to monitor your server regularly to ensure everything is running smoothly and resolve any issues that may arise. With that said, let’s move on to setting up your server!

Step 1: Downloading and Installing the Server Software

The first step in setting up your server is to download the Starbound server software. You can download the software from the official Starbound website or from a third-party website like SteamCMD. Once you’ve downloaded the software, extract it to a location of your choice.

Next, open the server-config.example file in a text editor and configure your server settings. This file contains all the settings for your server, including the server name, password, and port number. Once you’ve configured your settings, save the file as server.config and close the text editor.

Configuring Server Settings

Server Name: This is the name that will appear in the server list. Choose a name that is easy to remember and descriptive.

Password: If you want to restrict access to your server, you can set a password here. Players will need to enter the password to join your server.

Port Number: This is the port number that your server will use to communicate with the internet. By default, Starbound servers use port number 21025. It’s important to ensure that this port is open and not blocked by your firewall or internet service provider.

Max Players: This setting specifies the maximum number of players who can join your server. Set this to your desired amount.

Step 2: Configuring Router and Firewall Settings

Next, you need to configure your router and firewall settings to allow traffic to and from your server. This involves forwarding the port number you specified in the server.config file to your local IP address, which is the address of your computer on your local network.

The process of forwarding a port varies depending on your router model. Check your router’s documentation for specific instructions. Once you’ve forwarded the port, you’ll need to ensure your firewall is configured to allow incoming traffic on that port.

Step 3: Starting the Server

With your server software installed and configured, and your router and firewall settings configured, it’s time to start your server. To do this, simply run the starbound_server.exe file in the server software directory.

If everything is set up correctly, you should see a console window appear with information about your server. If you encounter any errors, refer to the server log file for more information.

Step 4: Managing Your Server

Now that your server is up and running, it’s important to manage it properly to ensure it runs smoothly. Here are some tips:

Moderation

Ensure that you have moderators or admins who can monitor the server and enforce rules. This will help prevent griefing and ensure that everyone has a good time.

Backups

Regularly backup your server files to prevent data loss in case of hardware or software failure. You can use third-party tools like FTP to make backups of your server files.

Updates

Stay up-to-date with the latest Starbound server software updates to ensure your server stays secure and runs smoothly. You can download updates from the official Starbound website or from third-party websites like SteamCMD.

Performance

To ensure optimal performance, make sure that your server is running on a machine with adequate hardware and resources. Monitor your server regularly for any performance issues and address them promptly.

FAQ

How many players can I host on my server?

The number of players you can host on your server depends on the hardware and internet resources available. You should ensure that you have enough bandwidth and processing power to handle the number of players you plan to host. Additionally, you should set a maximum player limit in your server.config file to prevent overloading your server.

Can I run a Starbound server on a virtual private server (VPS)?

Yes, you can run a Starbound server on a VPS as long as the VPS meets the minimum system requirements for running the server software. However, it’s important to ensure that you have enough bandwidth and processing power to handle the number of players you plan to host.

How do I set up a server password?

You can set up a server password by editing the server.config file and setting the password field. Players will need to enter the password to join your server.

Can I customize my server settings?

Yes, you can customize your server settings by editing the server.config file. This file contains all the settings for your server, including the server name, password, and port number. Refer to the Starbound wiki or official documentation for details on each setting.

What should I do if my server crashes?

If your server crashes, first check the server log file for any error messages. You can also try restarting the server and checking your hardware and internet resources.

Conclusion

Hosting a Starbound server can be a rewarding experience if done properly. By following the steps outlined in this article and taking the necessary precautions, you can set up a server that provides an enjoyable experience for you and your players. Good luck!