How do I protect portals from being destroyed by raids?

Protecting portals from being destroyed during raids in Valheim is crucial for maintaining fast travel and efficient exploration. Portals are essential for connecting distant biomes and bases, but they are vulnerable to enemy attacks during events like raids. Understanding the game mechanics and implementing strategic defenses can ensure your portals remain intact.\n\nFirst, it''s important to know how raids work. Raids are random events triggered by player activity, such as building or spending time in a base. During a raid, enemies will spawn nearby and target structures, including portals. The type of raid depends on the biome you''re in, with events like ''The Forest is Moving'' in the Meadows or ''Foul Smell from the Swamp'' in the Black Forest. Each raid brings specific enemies, so your defenses should account for these threats.\n\nTo protect your portals, start by building them in a secure location. Avoid placing portals in open areas where enemies can easily reach them. Instead, position them inside a fortified structure or behind walls. Stone walls are highly effective for defense, as they have high durability and resist most enemy attacks. To craft stone walls, you''ll need to unlock the Stonecutter, which requires Iron from the Swamp biome.\n\nAnother effective strategy is to create a moat or trench around your portal area. Digging a deep trench with a pickaxe prevents ground-based enemies from reaching your structures. Combine this with raised earth walls using the Hoe for added protection. This method is particularly useful in the Meadows and Black Forest, where most raid enemies are melee-based.\n\nFor additional security, consider placing workbenches or other crafting stations near your portals. These structures create a ''player base'' zone that prevents enemy spawns within a certain radius. By overlapping multiple workbench zones, you can create a safe area around your portal. This is especially helpful in biomes like the Plains, where raids can include dangerous enemies like Fulings.\n\nIf you''re in a biome with flying enemies, such as Drakes in the Mountains, you''ll need to account for aerial threats. Building a roof over your portal can protect it from ranged attacks. Use angled or peaked roofs to prevent enemies from landing on top of your structure. Additionally, placing Ballistae or other defensive turrets nearby can help fend off flying foes.\n\nFinally, always keep your portal area well-lit with torches or other light sources. This not only deters some enemies but also helps you spot threats during nighttime raids. Regularly repair your defenses and upgrade your structures as you progress through the game to ensure they remain effective against stronger enemies.\n\nBy following these steps, you can safeguard your portals and maintain a reliable fast travel network. Whether you''re a new player setting up your first base or an experienced Viking expanding your empire, these strategies will help you survive raids and thrive in Valheim.