How to Host Terraria Server: A Guide for Devs

Greetings, Devs! If you’re looking to host your own Terraria server for your community, friends or just for fun, you’ve come to the right place. Hosting a Terraria server can be a bit tricky, but with the right guidance and tools, you can set it up in no time. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the process of hosting a Terraria server step by step. Let’s dive in!

Step 1: Preparing Your System

Before we start, let’s make sure your system is ready to host a Terraria server. We recommend using a Windows or Linux operating system for optimal performance. Here are the system requirements:

System Requirements	Minimum	Recommended
Operating System	Windows 7 or newer	Windows 10
Processor	2.0 GHz	3.0 GHz or higher
RAM	2 GB	4 GB or higher
Storage	100 MB	500 MB or higher

Choosing a Terraria Server Version

Next, you’ll need to choose which version of Terraria you want to host. There are currently two versions available: Terraria 1.4 and Terraria 1.3.5.

If you want to host a server that runs the latest version of Terraria, go for Terraria 1.4. However, if you’re running an older version of the game, or if you’re running into compatibility issues with mods or plugins, you may want to stick with Terraria 1.3.5.

Choosing a Terraria Server Client

After choosing your server version, you’ll need to download the Terraria server client. You can download the client from the official Terraria website, or from a third-party website like tModLoader.

If you’re planning to use mods or plugins, we recommend using tModLoader as it has built-in support for plugins and mods, and makes it easy to install and manage them.

Opening Ports on Your Router

In order for other players to connect to your Terraria server, you’ll need to open the necessary ports on your router. By default, Terraria uses port 7777 for incoming connections. You’ll need to open this port on your router and forward it to your computer’s local IP address.

The steps to do this vary depending on your router’s make and model, but generally involve logging into your router’s admin panel and configuring the port forwarding settings. Consult your router’s documentation or the manufacturer’s website for specific instructions.

Step 2: Setting Up Your Terraria Server

Installing the Terraria Server Client

Once you’ve downloaded the Terraria server client, it’s time to install it. The installation process is straightforward and only takes a few minutes.

1. Extract the contents of the Terraria server client zip file to a new folder on your computer.
2. Open the newly created folder and run the server executable file. This will create a new config file.
3. Open the config file using a text editor like Notepad or Sublime Text.
4. Configure the server settings to your liking, including the server name, password, and world name.
5. Save the config file and close it.
6. Run the server executable file again to start the server.

Configuring Your Terraria Server

After starting the server, you’ll need to configure it to your liking. The Terraria server client comes with a variety of settings that you can tweak to customize your server. Here are some of the most important settings:

• Server Name: This is the name that will appear in the server list. Choose a name that’s easy to remember and relevant to your server’s theme.
• Password: If you want to restrict access to your server, you can set a password here.
• World Name: This is the name of your Terraria world. You can create a new world or use an existing one.
• Max Players: This sets the maximum number of players that can join your server at once.
• Server Port: This is the port number that your server will use to listen for incoming connections. By default, Terraria uses port 7777.
• Server IP: This is your computer’s local IP address. By default, Terraria will use your computer’s IP address to listen for incoming connections.
• Server Language: The language that the server uses for its messages and prompts.
• Server Side Characters: If this is enabled, players will be able to use their characters from other servers on your server.

Managing Your Terraria Server

Now that your server is up and running, you’ll need to manage it to ensure that everything runs smoothly. Here are some tips for managing your Terraria server:

• Regular Backups: Regularly backing up your world and server files is essential in case something goes wrong or the server crashes.
• Monitoring Server Performance: Keep an eye on your server’s performance to ensure that it’s running smoothly. Use task manager or other monitoring tools to monitor CPU, RAM and network usage.
• Managing Plugins and Mods: If you’re using plugins or mods, make sure to keep them up to date and test them before adding them to your server. Some incompatible plugins and mods can cause issues and crashes.
• Communication: Communication is key when managing a server. Use social media, forums, and other platforms to keep your players informed of updates, maintenance, and other important information.

Step 3: Joining and Playing on Your Terraria Server

Joining Your Server

Now that your server is up and running, it’s time to invite your friends or community members to join. Here’s how:

1. Launch Terraria and click the “Multiplayer” button.
2. Search for your server by name or IP address in the server list.
3. If your server is password-protected, enter the password to join.

Playing on Your Server

Once you’ve joined your server, you can start playing with your friends or community members. Here are some tips for playing on your Terraria server:

• Exploring: Terraria is a vast world full of surprises and secrets. Encourage your players to explore and discover new things.
• Building: Terraria has a variety of building materials and items that you can use to create amazing structures. Encourage your players to build and create their own unique structures.
• Collaborating: Terraria is a great game for collaboration. Encourage your players to work together on projects and share ideas.
• Hosting Events: Hosting regular events like boss battles, PvP tournaments, and treasure hunts can keep your players engaged and excited about the server.

Frequently Asked Questions

How much does it cost to host a Terraria server?

The cost of hosting a Terraria server varies depending on the hosting provider and the plan you choose. Some hosting providers offer plans as low as $5 per month, while others charge upwards of $50 per month for more powerful plans.

How many players can join my Terraria server?

The maximum number of players that can join your Terraria server depends on the server’s settings and your system’s specifications. In general, you can host up to 8-16 players on a basic system, but you can increase the limit by upgrading your system’s hardware or using a hosting service.

Can I use mods on my Terraria server?

Yes, you can use mods on your Terraria server. However, you’ll need to make sure that all players have the same mods installed to prevent compatibility issues.

How do I manage my Terraria server?

You can manage your Terraria server by regularly backing up your world and server files, monitoring server performance, managing plugins and mods, and keeping your players informed of updates and maintenance.

How do I join a Terraria server?

To join a Terraria server, launch the game and click the “Multiplayer” button. Search for the server by name or IP address in the server list, and enter the password if it’s password-protected.

How do I play on a Terraria server?

To play on a Terraria server, explore the world, build structures, work with other players, and participate in events and challenges hosted by the server’s administrator.

Conclusion

Hosting a Terraria server can be a fun and rewarding experience. By following the steps outlined in this guide, you’ll be able to set up and manage your own Terraria server in no time. Remember to keep your server up to date, communicate regularly with your players, and have fun!