# How to Update Your Sons of the Forest Server (/docs/sons-of-the-forest/update-guide)



import { Step, Steps } from 'fumadocs-ui/components/steps';

Sons of the Forest receives regular updates with new content, balance changes, and bug fixes. Players must be on the same version as the server to connect.

<Steps>
  <Step>
    Create a backup [#create-a-backup]

    In the [XGamingServer Panel](https://panel.xgamingserver.com), go to **Backups** and create a backup before updating. Some major updates may change save formats.

    {/* Screenshot needed: Backups page */}
  </Step>

  <Step>
    Stop the server [#stop-the-server]

    Stop from **Console**.
  </Step>

  <Step>
    Reinstall [#reinstall]

    On the **Dashboard**, click **Reinstall Server**. This pulls the latest server files from Steam while preserving your world saves and configuration.

    {/* Screenshot needed: Dashboard with Reinstall Server widget */}
  </Step>

  <Step>
    Start the server [#start-the-server]

    Start from **Console**. Check the startup output for the version number to confirm.
  </Step>
</Steps>

After Updating [#after-updating]

* **Verify connection**: Join from your game client to confirm versions match
* **Check saves**: Most updates are save-compatible, but major updates occasionally require a wipe. Check the [patch notes on Steam](https://store.steampowered.com/news/app/1326470) before updating
* **Review config**: New updates may add settings to `dedicatedserver.cfg`. Check patch notes for new options

Related Guides [#related-guides]

* [Server Configuration](/docs/sons-of-the-forest/server-config)
* [Wipe & Reinstall](/docs/sons-of-the-forest/wipe-reinstall)