What should I do if my Valheim server is not saving progress?
If your Valheim server is not saving progress, it can be frustrating, especially after hours of building, exploring, or gathering resources. This issue often stems from server settings, file corruption, or improper shutdowns. Understanding the game''s save mechanics is crucial. Valheim saves world and character data separately, with world data stored on the server and character data stored locally. If the server fails to save, your world progress may be lost, but your character''s inventory and skills should remain intact.\n\nFirst, check your server settings. If you''re hosting a dedicated server, ensure the ''world'' and ''backup'' folders are correctly configured. The server saves progress every 20 minutes by default, but you can manually trigger a save by typing ''/save'' in the server console. If you''re using a third-party hosting service, verify that the server has sufficient storage and that the save files are not corrupted. Corrupted files can prevent the server from saving properly, so always keep backups of your world files.\n\nNext, ensure the server is shutting down correctly. Abruptly closing the server or experiencing a power outage can interrupt the save process. Always use the ''/stop'' command in the server console to shut down the server gracefully. This ensures all progress is saved before the server closes. If you''re playing on a local server, avoid force-closing the game or turning off your computer without exiting properly.\n\nIf the issue persists, inspect your world files. Navigate to the ''worlds'' folder in your Valheim directory (usually located in C:\Users\[YourUsername]\AppData\LocalLow\IronGate\Valheim\worlds). Look for files with the same name as your world but with a ''.old'' extension. These are backup files created by the game. Rename the ''.old'' file to ''.db'' and ''.fwl'' to restore the most recent backup. This can recover lost progress if the primary save file is corrupted.\n\nFor players experiencing this issue on a shared server, communicate with the server admin. They may need to adjust server permissions or update the server software. Sometimes, outdated server versions can cause save issues. Ensure both the server and the game client are updated to the latest version. If you''re using mods, compatibility issues can also interfere with saving. Disable mods temporarily to see if the problem resolves.\n\nFinally, consider the biome and activities you''re engaged in. For example, if you''re building a massive base in the Meadows or exploring the treacherous Mountains, the server may struggle to save due to the complexity of the world data. Simplify your builds or reduce the number of active players to ease the server''s load. Additionally, avoid leaving the game running for extended periods without saving, as this increases the risk of data loss.\n\nTo prevent future issues, regularly back up your world files. Copy the ''.db'' and ''.fwl'' files to a separate location, such as an external drive or cloud storage. This ensures you can restore your progress even if the server fails to save. For dedicated servers, automate backups using scripts or server management tools. These tools can schedule backups and notify you of any save errors.\n\nIn summary, troubleshooting a Valheim server that isn''t saving progress involves checking server settings, ensuring proper shutdowns, inspecting world files, and maintaining backups. By following these steps, you can minimize data loss and enjoy a smoother multiplayer experience. Remember to communicate with your server admin and keep your game and server software up to date. With these precautions, you can focus on conquering biomes, crafting powerful gear, and building epic Viking settlements without worrying about losing progress.