How do you use wards to protect your base from other players?

Wards are a powerful tool in Valheim for protecting your base from other players, especially in multiplayer servers. They act as a defensive mechanism to prevent unauthorized access to your structures and chests. To use wards effectively, you need to understand their mechanics, crafting requirements, and placement strategies.\n\nFirst, you must craft a ward. Wards require 5 Fine Wood, 5 Greydwarf Eyes, and 1 Surtling Core. Fine Wood is obtained by chopping down birch or oak trees in the Meadows or Black Forest biomes. Greydwarf Eyes drop from Greydwarfs, which are common enemies in the Black Forest. Surtling Cores are found in Burial Chambers in the Black Forest or dropped by Surtlings in the Ashlands biome. Once you have the materials, craft the ward at a workbench.\n\nAfter crafting the ward, place it in your base. Wards have a spherical radius of 20 meters, and any player who is not authorized will be unable to interact with objects within this range. To authorize yourself or other players, interact with the ward and add their names to the authorized list. This is crucial for multiplayer servers where you want to grant access to trusted allies while keeping others out.\n\nOne common challenge is ensuring the ward covers your entire base. If your base is large, you may need multiple wards to provide full coverage. Place wards strategically at key points, such as near entrances, storage areas, or crafting stations. Overlapping ward radii can help ensure there are no gaps in protection. Additionally, wards can be hidden behind walls or other structures to make them harder for intruders to locate and destroy.\n\nWards also have a visual effect that can deter potential intruders. When active, they emit a glowing blue light, signaling that the area is protected. This can discourage players from attempting to raid your base, as they will know their efforts will be futile. However, keep in mind that wards do not prevent damage to structures from enemy attacks or environmental hazards, so you should still reinforce your base with walls, gates, and other defenses.\n\nFor new players, it’s important to prioritize gathering the materials for wards early in the game. While exploring the Black Forest, focus on collecting Greydwarf Eyes and Surtling Cores. Fine Wood can be obtained once you upgrade your axe to bronze or higher. Experienced players can use wards in combination with other defensive measures, such as spike traps or moats, to create a highly secure base.\n\nIn conclusion, wards are an essential tool for protecting your base in Valheim, especially in multiplayer settings. By crafting and placing them strategically, you can prevent unauthorized access and secure your valuable resources. Remember to authorize trusted players and consider using multiple wards for larger bases. With proper planning, wards can provide peace of mind and keep your base safe from intruders.