What are the best ways to optimize server performance for large groups?

Optimizing server performance for large groups in Valheim is crucial to ensure smooth gameplay and minimize lag. Valheim is a survival game that relies heavily on server-client interactions, and as the number of players increases, so does the strain on the server. To maintain a stable experience, you need to address both in-game mechanics and technical server settings.\n\nFirst, limit the number of active structures and objects in the game world. Valheim tracks every item, building, and terrain modification, which can cause performance issues over time. Encourage players to avoid excessive terraforming, as this creates permanent changes to the world that the server must constantly process. Instead, focus on building compact, efficient bases. For example, use stone or wood structures sparingly and avoid over-decorating with unnecessary items like torches or furniture.\n\nSecond, manage the number of active creatures and NPCs in the game. Large groups often spawn more enemies due to the scaling difficulty, which can overwhelm the server. To mitigate this, avoid building bases in high-traffic areas like the Black Forest or Plains biomes, where enemies are more frequent. Instead, consider setting up in the Meadows biome, which has fewer hostile creatures. Additionally, clear out nearby spawners and nests to reduce the number of active entities.\n\nThird, optimize your server settings. If you''re hosting a dedicated server, ensure your hardware meets the recommended requirements for Valheim. Allocate sufficient RAM and CPU resources to the server, as Valheim can be resource-intensive. Use command-line arguments like -world [worldname] -password [password] to reduce unnecessary overhead. For example, adding -public 0 can prevent random players from joining and overloading the server.\n\nFourth, manage player activity and exploration. Large groups often spread out across the map, which forces the server to load multiple areas simultaneously. To reduce this strain, encourage players to stay relatively close together or use portals to travel between key locations. Portals are crafted using Fine Wood, Greydwarf Eyes, and Surtling Cores, and they allow instant travel between two linked points, reducing the need for constant map loading.\n\nFifth, regularly back up and reset the server world if necessary. Over time, the game world can become bloated with data from player activity. If performance issues persist, consider creating a new world and transferring essential items and structures using the character inventory system. This can help reset the server''s load and improve performance.\n\nFinally, communicate with your group to establish rules and guidelines for server usage. For example, limit the number of active fires or smelters, as these create persistent light and particle effects that can strain the server. Encourage players to log out when not actively playing to reduce the number of active connections.\n\nBy following these steps, you can optimize server performance for large groups in Valheim. Focus on efficient building, strategic biome placement, and proper server management to ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience for all players.