Running your own Conan Exiles dedicated server gives you full control over rules, rates and mods. Here’s how to set one up on a Windows machine or VPS.
Setup at a glance
| Step | What you do |
|---|---|
| 1. Install | Dedicated Server Launcher (Steam Tools) or SteamCMD |
| 2. Port forward | Game + query UDP ports → host machine |
| 3. Configure | Name, admin password, max players, mode, rates |
| 4. Mods (optional) | Workshop mods in load order (PC-only) |
| 5. Connect | Server browser or Direct Connect by IP |
Step 1: Install the dedicated server
Install the Conan Exiles Dedicated Server Launcher, a free tool in your Steam Library under Tools, or pull the server files with SteamCMD. The launcher handles downloads, updates and basic configuration, which makes it the easiest route for most people. Note the server files are large, so allow disk space and time.
Step 2: Port forwarding
Conan Exiles uses several UDP ports for game traffic and the Steam query/browser. Forward them in your router to the machine running the server, and if asked to choose, pick UDP for game traffic. Unforwarded or mismatched ports are the most common reason friends can’t connect.
Step 3: Configure your server
Set your server name, an admin password (so you can use admin commands), max players, server mode (PvP/PvE), and your rates. Our server settings guide explains what to change, and the config tool generates the file for you.
Step 4: Add mods (optional)
For a modded server, subscribe to Steam Workshop mods and add them to the server’s mod list in the correct load order. Every player needs the exact same mods to connect, and console players can’t use mods — see our mods guide.
Step 5: Connect
Launch the server, then join from the in-game server browser or via Direct Connect with your IP. Keep the server updated whenever Conan patches, and back up your save regularly.
Frequently asked questions
How do I host a Conan Exiles dedicated server?
Install the Dedicated Server Launcher from Steam’s Tools (or use SteamCMD), forward the game and query UDP ports, set your name, admin password, mode and rates, optionally add Workshop mods in load order, then launch and connect via the browser or Direct Connect. Update after every Conan patch.
Why can’t my friends join my Conan server?
Usually port forwarding — the UDP ports aren’t forwarded or are pointed at the wrong local IP. Choose UDP (not TCP) and forward to the host machine, then test via Direct Connect. On a modded server, a mod-list mismatch is the other common cause.
Is it better to self-host or rent a Conan server?
Self-hosting is free but you handle hardware, port forwarding, updates and uptime — and your PC must stay on. A managed host deploys in ~60 seconds with ports open, a public IP, automatic updates and one-click mods, which is why most groups rent for a persistent, always-online world.
A managed Conan Exiles server from $7/month handles hardware, updates and uptime for you — 30% off with code XGAMEON.
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