What should I do if my Valheim server is not showing up online?

If your Valheim server is not showing up online, there are several steps you can take to troubleshoot and resolve the issue. Valheim''s multiplayer functionality relies on proper server setup, network configuration, and game settings. Below is a detailed guide to help you diagnose and fix the problem.\n\nFirst, ensure that your server is properly set up. If you are hosting a dedicated server, make sure the server software is running correctly. Check the server logs for any error messages that might indicate a problem. If you are using a third-party hosting service, verify that the server is online and configured according to their guidelines. For local hosting, ensure that your computer meets the system requirements and that the server process is not being blocked by your firewall or antivirus software.\n\nNext, check your network settings. Valheim servers require specific ports to be open for communication. The default ports are 2456-2458 for both TCP and UDP. If these ports are blocked or not forwarded correctly, other players will not be able to see or connect to your server. You can configure port forwarding in your router settings. If you are unsure how to do this, consult your router''s manual or contact your internet service provider for assistance.\n\nAnother common issue is the server visibility setting. When starting a server, you have the option to make it public or private. If your server is set to private, it will not appear in the server list, and players will need the direct IP address to join. To change this setting, edit the server configuration file (usually named ''start_headless_server.bat'' or similar) and ensure the ''-public 1'' flag is included. This will make your server visible to others.\n\nIf your server is still not showing up, it could be due to a mismatch in game versions. Ensure that both the server and all players are running the same version of Valheim. Updates are frequent, and mismatched versions can prevent players from seeing or joining the server. Check for updates on Steam and restart both the server and the game to apply any changes.\n\nFirewall and antivirus software can also interfere with server visibility. Make sure that Valheim and its server software are added to the exceptions list in your firewall and antivirus settings. This will allow the necessary network traffic to pass through without being blocked. If you are unsure how to do this, refer to the documentation for your specific software.\n\nFinally, if none of the above solutions work, consider restarting your server and router. Sometimes, a simple restart can resolve connectivity issues. Additionally, you can try connecting to your server using the direct IP address instead of relying on the server list. This can help bypass any issues with server visibility.\n\nIn summary, troubleshooting a Valheim server that is not showing up online involves checking server setup, network configuration, game settings, and software compatibility. By following these steps, you should be able to resolve most issues and get your server running smoothly. Remember to keep your game and server software up to date, and always check for error messages in the server logs for additional clues.