Why do I keep getting disconnected from my Valheim multiplayer server?

Disconnecting from a Valheim multiplayer server can be frustrating, especially when you''re in the middle of exploring, building, or battling enemies. This issue often stems from a combination of server stability, network connectivity, and game settings. Understanding the mechanics behind multiplayer in Valheim is key to troubleshooting and resolving these disconnections.\n\nFirst, Valheim uses a peer-to-peer (P2P) system for multiplayer, meaning one player hosts the server, and others connect to it. If the host has a weak internet connection or their computer struggles to handle the game''s demands, players may experience frequent disconnections. For example, if the host is exploring the Plains biome, which is resource-intensive due to its dense vegetation and enemy spawns, the server might lag or crash, causing others to disconnect.\n\nTo address this, ensure the host has a stable internet connection and a capable PC. If the host is using Wi-Fi, switching to a wired connection can significantly improve stability. Additionally, the host should close unnecessary background applications to free up system resources. If the issue persists, consider using a dedicated server instead of hosting locally. Dedicated servers are more reliable and can handle more players without performance issues.\n\nAnother common cause of disconnections is network latency or packet loss. This can happen if your internet connection is unstable or if there''s a mismatch between your game version and the server''s version. To check for version mismatches, ensure all players and the server are running the same version of Valheim. You can verify this by checking the game''s version number in the main menu.\n\nIf your internet connection is the issue, try restarting your router or modem. You can also use tools like ping tests to check for packet loss or high latency. For example, if you''re playing with friends in different regions, the distance between players can cause delays. In such cases, using a VPN or optimizing your network settings might help reduce latency.\n\nGame settings can also contribute to disconnections. For instance, if your graphics settings are too high for your PC, it might struggle to keep up with the server, leading to crashes or disconnects. Lowering settings like draw distance, shadow quality, and vegetation density can improve performance. Additionally, disabling mods or custom content that aren''t compatible with the server can prevent crashes.\n\nFinally, if you''re still experiencing issues, consider checking the server logs for error messages. These logs can provide clues about what''s causing the disconnections. For example, if the logs show frequent timeouts, it might indicate a problem with the server''s connection to the internet. Addressing these issues can help stabilize your multiplayer experience.\n\nIn summary, frequent disconnections in Valheim multiplayer are often caused by server instability, network issues, or game settings. By ensuring the host has a stable connection, optimizing your network, and adjusting game settings, you can minimize these disruptions. If all else fails, switching to a dedicated server or troubleshooting with server logs can provide a more reliable multiplayer experience.