How do I set up a portal network for efficient fast travel?

Setting up a portal network in Valheim is essential for efficient fast travel across the vast world. Portals allow you to instantly move between two connected points, saving time and resources. To begin, you need to craft a Portal using 20 Fine Wood, 2 Surtling Cores, and 10 Greydwarf Eyes. Fine Wood is obtained by chopping down Birch or Oak trees in the Meadows or Black Forest biomes, while Surtling Cores are found in Burial Chambers or dropped by Surtlings in the Ashlands. Greydwarf Eyes are dropped by Greydwarfs, common enemies in the Black Forest.\n\nOnce you have the materials, craft a Portal at a workbench. Place the Portal in your desired location, ensuring it is in a safe and accessible area. To connect two Portals, you must name them with the same tag. For example, if you name one Portal ''Home'' and another ''Mining,'' they will link together. This naming system allows you to create a network of interconnected Portals for different purposes, such as resource gathering, exploration, or base defense.\n\nA common challenge is transporting metal ores like Copper, Tin, Iron, or Silver through Portals, as these materials are restricted. To overcome this, set up a secondary base near resource-rich areas like the Black Forest (for Copper and Tin) or the Mountains (for Silver). Smelt the ores into bars at the secondary base, then transport the bars through the Portal. This workaround ensures you can still benefit from fast travel while managing resource transportation efficiently.\n\nFor new players, it is recommended to establish a central hub with multiple Portals. For example, create a main base in the Meadows biome and connect it to key locations like the Black Forest, Swamp, or Mountains. Label each Portal clearly, such as ''Forest Outpost'' or ''Swamp Camp,'' to avoid confusion. Experienced players can expand their network to include rare biomes like the Plains or Mistlands, ensuring quick access to high-tier resources and boss locations.\n\nTo optimize your portal network, always carry portal materials (Fine Wood, Surtling Cores, and Greydwarf Eyes) when exploring. This allows you to set up temporary Portals in remote areas, linking them back to your main base. Additionally, consider building small shelters around Portals to protect them from enemy attacks or harsh weather conditions. For example, in the Mountains biome, construct a stone shelter to shield the Portal from Drakes and freezing temperatures.\n\nFinally, remember that Portals require a clear path to function. Avoid placing them too close to walls or other structures, as this can block their activation. If a Portal fails to connect, double-check the naming and ensure both Portals are properly placed. With a well-organized portal network, you can streamline your adventures, reduce travel time, and focus on conquering Valheim''s challenges.\n\nPractical tips: Always carry a Hammer and portal materials for emergency setups. Use signs or markers to label Portals clearly. Protect Portals with walls or fences in dangerous biomes. Plan your network around resource hotspots and boss locations for maximum efficiency.