How do I position workbenches to prevent enemy spawns near my fort?

In Valheim, preventing enemy spawns near your fort is crucial for maintaining a safe and secure base. Workbenches are one of the most effective tools for this purpose, as they create a player-made structure radius that prevents enemy spawns within a 20-meter range. This mechanic is essential for defending your fort, especially in hostile biomes like the Black Forest or Plains.\n\nTo maximize the effectiveness of workbenches, you need to strategically place them around your fort. Start by crafting multiple workbenches and placing them at regular intervals along the perimeter of your base. The 20-meter radius of each workbench should overlap slightly with the next to ensure there are no gaps where enemies can spawn. Use the hammer''s build menu to visualize the radius and adjust placements as needed.\n\nIn biomes with frequent enemy raids, such as the Meadows or Black Forest, you may need to reinforce your workbench placements with additional defenses. For example, dig a moat or raise earth walls around your fort to create physical barriers. Combine these defenses with workbenches to create a layered protection system. This approach is particularly useful in the Plains biome, where Fuling raids can overwhelm unprepared players.\n\nOne common challenge is ensuring that workbenches remain intact during enemy attacks. To address this, consider placing workbenches inside small, fortified structures. Use wooden walls or stone blocks to protect the workbenches from damage. Alternatively, bury workbenches underground by digging a hole, placing the workbench, and covering it with flooring. This method keeps the workbench hidden and safe from destruction.\n\nFor larger forts or sprawling bases, you may need to craft additional workbenches to cover the entire area. Keep in mind that workbenches require a clear space to function, so avoid placing them too close to walls or other obstructions. If you''re building in a mountainous biome, use the terrain to your advantage by placing workbenches on elevated platforms to extend their coverage.\n\nFinally, remember that workbenches are not the only structures that prevent enemy spawns. Other player-made items, such as campfires, torches, and wards, also create spawn-free zones. Combine these items with workbenches to create a comprehensive defense system. For example, place torches along your walls to deter nighttime spawns and use wards to protect key areas of your fort.\n\nBy following these steps, you can effectively prevent enemy spawns near your fort and create a secure base in any biome. Whether you''re a new player building your first shelter or an experienced Viking fortifying a Plains outpost, strategic workbench placement is a key part of Valheim''s defensive gameplay.