What should I do if my server crashes during a raid event?

Server crashes during raid events in Valheim can be frustrating, especially when you''re in the middle of defending your base. Raid events, such as the ''Eikthyr rallies the creatures of the forest'' or ''The ground is shaking,'' are triggered by specific in-game conditions, like defeating bosses or spending time in certain biomes. These events spawn waves of enemies that attack your base, and if the server crashes, it can disrupt your progress and potentially cause loss of items or structures.\n\nFirst, it''s important to understand why server crashes occur during raids. Raid events are resource-intensive because they spawn multiple enemies and require the server to handle increased activity. If your server is running on low-end hardware or has insufficient memory, it may struggle to process the event, leading to crashes. Additionally, mods or custom configurations can sometimes conflict with the game''s mechanics, causing instability.\n\nTo prevent crashes during raids, start by ensuring your server meets the minimum system requirements. Valheim recommends at least 4GB of RAM for dedicated servers, but for smoother performance during raids, 8GB or more is ideal. If you''re hosting the server on your own machine, close unnecessary background applications to free up resources. For dedicated servers, consider upgrading the hardware or switching to a more reliable hosting provider.\n\nIf your server crashes during a raid, the first step is to restart it. Once the server is back online, check if the raid event is still active. In some cases, the event may reset, and you''ll need to wait for it to trigger again. However, if the raid was in progress, the enemies may still be present, and you''ll need to defend your base immediately. Make sure to equip your best gear, such as bronze or iron armor, and stock up on healing items like cooked meat or honey.\n\nTo minimize the impact of crashes, consider saving your game manually before starting a raid. While Valheim has an autosave feature, it may not capture your progress right before a crash. You can force a manual save by typing ''/save'' in the console (accessible by pressing F5). This ensures that your base and inventory are preserved, even if the server crashes.\n\nAnother practical solution is to reduce the strain on the server during raids. For example, avoid building overly complex structures with too many objects, as this can increase the server''s load. Stick to functional designs and limit decorative items. Additionally, if you''re playing with a group, coordinate with your teammates to avoid overloading the server with too many actions at once, such as building or crafting simultaneously.\n\nIf crashes persist, consider troubleshooting mods or custom configurations. Disable any mods that alter enemy behavior or raid mechanics, as these can sometimes cause conflicts. You can also check the server logs for error messages that might indicate the cause of the crash. For example, if the logs mention ''out of memory,'' it''s a sign that your server needs more RAM.\n\nFinally, if you''re playing in a biome like the Black Forest or Plains, where raids are more frequent, prepare your base accordingly. Build defensive structures like stake walls or moats to slow down enemies and give yourself time to react. Stockpile resources like wood and stone for quick repairs, and keep a portal nearby for easy access to your main base.\n\nIn summary, server crashes during raids can be mitigated by ensuring your server has sufficient resources, saving your game manually, and optimizing your base design. By following these steps, you can minimize disruptions and enjoy a smoother Valheim experience, even during intense raid events.