How do I update my Valheim server to the latest version?

Updating your Valheim server to the latest version is essential to ensure compatibility with the latest features, bug fixes, and optimizations. Whether you''re hosting a dedicated server or using a third-party service, keeping your server updated is straightforward but requires attention to detail. This guide will walk you through the process step-by-step, including troubleshooting common issues and ensuring a smooth transition for all players.\n\nFirst, determine whether you''re running a dedicated server or using a hosting service. If you''re hosting the server yourself, you''ll need to manually update it whenever a new patch is released. For dedicated servers, the update process involves downloading the latest server files from Steam. Open your Steam client, navigate to the ''Library'' section, and locate the ''Valheim Dedicated Server'' tool. Right-click on it, select ''Properties,'' and then go to the ''Updates'' tab. Ensure that the ''Automatic updates'' option is enabled to streamline future updates.\n\nIf automatic updates are not enabled, you can manually update the server by right-clicking the ''Valheim Dedicated Server'' tool in your Steam library and selecting ''Update.'' This will download the latest version of the server files. Once the update is complete, restart your server to apply the changes. It''s important to notify your players about the update and any potential downtime, as they may also need to update their game clients to match the server version.\n\nFor players using third-party hosting services, the update process is often handled automatically by the provider. However, it''s a good idea to check your hosting control panel or contact customer support to confirm that the server has been updated. Some providers may require you to manually trigger the update or restart the server. Always verify the server version after an update to ensure it matches the latest Valheim release.\n\nOne common challenge during updates is version mismatch between the server and client. If players are unable to connect to the server after an update, it''s likely because their game client is not updated to the same version. To resolve this, ensure all players have updated their Valheim game through Steam. They can do this by restarting Steam or manually checking for updates in the ''Library'' section.\n\nAnother potential issue is corrupted server files, which can occur during the update process. If your server fails to start after an update, try verifying the integrity of the server files. In Steam, right-click the ''Valheim Dedicated Server'' tool, select ''Properties,'' go to the ''Local Files'' tab, and click ''Verify Integrity of Tool Files.'' This will check for and repair any corrupted or missing files.\n\nFinally, always back up your server world files before performing an update. This ensures that your progress and player data are safe in case something goes wrong during the update process. Locate your server''s world files, typically found in the ''worlds'' folder within the Valheim server directory, and copy them to a secure location. This precaution is especially important for servers with extensive builds or long-running campaigns.\n\nIn summary, updating your Valheim server involves ensuring both the server and client versions match, enabling automatic updates where possible, and backing up your world files. By following these steps, you can maintain a stable and up-to-date server for your Viking adventures. Happy exploring!