How to Set a Password on Your Valheim Server
Password protect your Valheim dedicated server. Includes the 5-character minimum and the world-name restriction.
Valheim servers require a password by default. There are two important rules:
- The password must be at least 5 characters
- The password cannot match the world name — Valheim will refuse to start if it does
Open Startup
In the XGamingServer Panel, click Startup in the sidebar.
Change the Server Password
Find the Server Password variable (maps to -password) and enter your password.
MySecretPassThe password must be at least 5 characters and must not match the world name set in the World variable.
Restart the server
Go to Console and restart.
Removing the Password
Valheim does not officially support password-less servers — the server will refuse to start without a password. If you want a public-feeling server:
- Use a simple, well-known password and share it openly
- Combine with
-public 1so it appears in the Community browser - Or use the join code approach for crossplay servers
Common Errors
| Error | Cause | Fix |
|---|---|---|
| "Password too short" | Password under 5 characters | Use at least 5 characters |
| "Password matches world name" | -password and -world are the same string | Make them different |
| Server won't start | One of the above | Check Console output for the exact error |
Related Guides
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Valheim Server Launch Parameters Reference
Complete reference for all Valheim dedicated server startup parameters and launch options.
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