Greetings, Dev! If you’re a fan of Space Engineers and want to take the game to the next level, you may have considered hosting your own private server. Not only does this give you complete control over the game environment, but it also allows you to play with friends or even open it up to a wider community. In this article, we’ll be exploring everything you need to know about Space Engineers private server hosting, including hardware requirements, server settings, and troubleshooting tips.
Hardware Requirements
The first thing you’ll need to consider when it comes to hosting a Space Engineers private server is the hardware requirements. While the game can be run on a range of systems, a dedicated server will require a more powerful machine to ensure smooth gameplay and minimal lag. Here are the recommended hardware specifications for running a private server:
Component |
Minimum Requirements |
Recommended Requirements |
|---|---|---|
CPU |
Intel Core i5-6600K @ 3.5 GHz |
Intel Core i7-8700K @ 3.7 GHz or higher |
RAM |
8 GB |
16 GB or higher |
Storage |
60 GB |
100 GB or higher |
Bandwidth |
1 Mbps upload speed |
10 Mbps upload speed or higher |
It’s worth noting that the requirements may vary depending on the number of players and mods you plan to use. If you’re unsure about your hardware’s capabilities, you can use tools like Steam’s built-in server browser or third-party services like GameServers.com to test your machine’s performance.
Choosing Your Operating System
Another consideration when setting up your Space Engineers private server is the operating system you’ll be using. While the game can be run on both Windows and Linux machines, the server software is only officially supported on Windows. However, there are community-made server tools available for Linux, which may work equally well depending on your needs.
If you’re already familiar with one or the other, it may make more sense to stick with what you know. However, if you’re starting from scratch, it’s worth considering the pros and cons of each. Windows tends to be the more user-friendly option, with more intuitive tools and a wider range of compatible software. On the other hand, Linux is often preferred for its stability and superior performance in some cases.
Setting Up Your Server
Once you’ve selected your hardware and operating system, it’s time to start setting up your Space Engineers private server. Here are the steps you’ll need to follow:
Step 1: Install the Server Software
If you’re using Windows, you can download the official Space Engineers dedicated server software from the game’s Steam store page. Once downloaded, extract the files to a location of your choosing. If you’re using Linux, you’ll need to download a community-made server tool such as Torch, which can be found on GitHub.
Step 2: Configure Your Server Settings
Before you can start your server, you’ll need to configure your settings. This includes selecting your world settings, choosing your mods, and defining your server rules. Here are some of the settings you may want to customize:
- World Size
- Ingame Scripts
- Grinding and Welding Speeds
- Inventory Size
- Server Name and Description
- Maximum Players
- Reserved Slots
- Banned Players and IPs
These settings can be customized using the server configuration tool included with the server software. You can also adjust them manually by editing the server configuration files, which can be found in the server folder.
Step 3: Open Your Ports
In order for other players to connect to your server, you’ll need to open the appropriate ports on your router. This typically involves forwarding ports 27015 and 27016 to your server’s local IP address. The exact process will vary depending on your router, so consult your router’s manual or online documentation for instructions.
Step 4: Start Your Server
Finally, it’s time to start your Space Engineers private server! Open the server console or command prompt and navigate to the server folder using the “cd” command. Then, type “start.bat” (Windows) or “start.sh” (Linux) to launch the server. The server should now be running and visible in the game’s server browser.
Troubleshooting Tips
While setting up your Space Engineers private server can be a straightforward process, there are a few common issues you may encounter. Here are some tips for resolving server problems:
Problem: Server Crashes or Freezes
This can be caused by a variety of issues, including hardware problems, outdated drivers or software, or conflicts with other programs running on the server. Try updating your drivers and software, checking your hardware for issues, and disabling any unnecessary programs or background processes.
Problem: Players Can’t Connect
This may be due to firewall settings, improperly forwarded ports, or incorrect network settings. Double-check that your ports are forwarded correctly, and make sure your firewall is allowing incoming connections to the necessary ports.
Problem: Lag or Poor Performance
Slow performance can be caused by a range of issues, including insufficient hardware, network problems, or improperly configured server settings. Try upgrading your hardware or adjusting your server settings to improve performance. You can also test your network connection using tools like PingPlotter to identify any latency issues.
FAQ
What is a Space Engineers private server?
A Space Engineers private server is a dedicated server that you can set up and run yourself, allowing you to control the game environment and invite other players to join.
How much does it cost to run a private server?
The cost of running a Space Engineers private server will depend on a range of factors, including your hardware, internet connection, and the number of players you plan to host. However, you can expect to pay anywhere from $10 to $50 per month for a dedicated server hosting service.
Can I run a private server on my own computer?
Yes, you can run a Space Engineers private server on your own computer. However, this may not be the best option if you plan to host a large number of players or mods, as it can put a strain on your system’s resources and potentially lead to performance issues.
Do I need any special software to host a private server?
You’ll need to download the Space Engineers dedicated server software if you’re using Windows, or a community-made server tool if you’re using Linux. You may also want to use a server configuration tool to customize your settings more easily.
How do I add mods to my server?
To add mods to your Space Engineers private server, simply download the mod files and place them in the server’s “Mods” folder. You can then activate the mods in your server settings.
We hope this guide has been helpful in setting up your Space Engineers private server. Good luck, and happy engineering!