Why do my friends keep getting kicked from my Valheim server?

If your friends keep getting kicked from your Valheim server, it could be due to a variety of reasons, including connection issues, server settings, or game bugs. Valheim is a multiplayer survival game that relies heavily on stable internet connections and proper server configurations. When hosting a server, whether locally or through a dedicated server, the game requires consistent bandwidth and low latency to ensure smooth gameplay for all players. If these conditions aren''t met, players may experience frequent disconnections.\n\nOne common issue is the server''s connection stability. If you''re hosting the server on your own machine, your internet upload speed plays a critical role. Valheim requires at least 1-2 Mbps of upload speed per player to maintain a stable connection. If your upload speed is insufficient, your friends may get kicked due to lag or timeouts. To check your upload speed, use an online speed test tool. If your upload speed is too low, consider upgrading your internet plan or switching to a dedicated server host.\n\nAnother potential cause is the server''s player limit. Valheim servers can support up to 10 players, but hosting more than 6-7 players on a local machine can strain your system and cause disconnections. If you''re nearing the player limit, try reducing the number of players or upgrading to a dedicated server. Dedicated servers are more reliable for larger groups and can be rented from hosting services like G-Portal or hosted on a separate machine.\n\nFirewall and port forwarding issues can also cause players to get kicked. Valheim uses specific ports (2456-2458 by default) for multiplayer connections. If these ports are blocked or not properly forwarded, your friends may struggle to connect or stay connected. To fix this, ensure that your router''s firewall allows traffic through these ports. You can also manually forward the ports in your router settings. For example, log into your router''s admin panel, locate the port forwarding section, and add rules for TCP/UDP ports 2456-2458.\n\nGame bugs and outdated mods can also lead to disconnections. Valheim is still in early access, and occasional bugs can disrupt multiplayer sessions. If you''re using mods, ensure they are compatible with the current game version. Outdated or conflicting mods can cause crashes or disconnections. To troubleshoot, disable all mods and test the server. If the issue persists, verify the integrity of your game files through Steam by right-clicking Valheim, selecting Properties, and clicking Verify Integrity of Game Files.\n\nLastly, server performance can be affected by the game world''s complexity. If your server has a large base with many structures, crops, and tamed animals, it can strain the server''s resources. For example, building massive fortresses in the Meadows or Plains biome with extensive terraforming can cause lag and disconnections. To improve performance, reduce the number of active objects in the world, such as by limiting the number of torches or decorative items. You can also split your base into smaller, more manageable sections.\n\nTo summarize, if your friends keep getting kicked from your Valheim server, start by checking your internet upload speed and server player limit. Ensure that the necessary ports are open and forwarded correctly. Disable any outdated mods and verify your game files. Finally, optimize your server''s performance by reducing the complexity of your builds. By addressing these issues, you can create a more stable and enjoyable multiplayer experience for everyone.