How to Update Your Valheim Server
Keep your Valheim dedicated server up to date with the latest game version through the panel.
Valheim updates regularly. Players auto-update on Steam, Xbox, and Microsoft Store, so the server needs to stay current to avoid version mismatch.
Create a backup
In the XGamingServer Panel, go to Backups and create a backup before updating. World saves are forward-compatible but not backward-compatible.
Stop the server
Go to Console and stop the server.
Reinstall
On the Dashboard, click Reinstall Server. This pulls the latest server files from Steam while preserving your worlds, configuration, and admin list.
Reinstall mods (if applicable)
Steam updates can overwrite BepInEx files. If you use mods, go to Mods in the sidebar and verify your installed mods are still loaded. Some may need to be reinstalled. See Update Mods.
Start the server
Start from Console and check the startup log to confirm the new version.
After Updating
- Test connection — join from your client to confirm versions match
- Check mods — incompatible mods can cause crashes after major Valheim updates. Update them via the panel Mod Manager
- Review patch notes — major Valheim updates sometimes add new world modifiers or settings. Check steamcommunity.com/games/892970/announcements
Common Issues
| Problem | Fix |
|---|---|
| Version mismatch after update | Steam may not have updated yet on your client. Re-launch the game |
| World won't load after update | Restore from your backup. The new version may not support old saves — wait for a patch |
| Mods broken | Some mods need updates after major Valheim patches. Check Thunderstore for newer versions |
Related Guides
How is this guide?
Transfer a Valheim Character Between Devices
Understand how Valheim character data works and transfer characters between PCs, plus the Server Characters mod for server-locked characters.
Update Mods on Your Valheim Server
Keep your Valheim server mods up to date using the panel Mod Manager and handle mod updates after Valheim game patches.