How to Host Starbound Server

Hello Dev, if you’re reading this article, it means you’re interested in hosting a Starbound server. This guide will walk you through the process of setting up and hosting a server for this popular sandbox game. Whether you’re hosting for yourself, friends, or the public, this guide will give you everything you need to get started.

What is Starbound?

Before we dive into the technical details of hosting a Starbound server, let’s quickly discuss what the game is all about. Starbound is a sandbox-style game that allows players to explore a vast universe, build structures, craft items, and engage in combat with various creatures. The game is available on multiple platforms, including Windows, macOS, and Linux.

The Basics of Starbound

In Starbound, players assume the role of a character who has fled their home planet due to an impending threat. The game revolves around exploring the universe and discovering new planets, each with its unique biomes and creatures. Along the way, players can gather resources and craft various items, including weapons, tools, and vehicles, to aid in their journey. The game also features a robust building system, allowing players to construct elaborate structures using a variety of building blocks.

While the game can be played solo, it also supports multiplayer, enabling players to collaborate on building projects or engage in PVP combat with one another. To take advantage of the multiplayer feature, players will need to host or join a server.

Requirements for Hosting a Starbound Server

Now that we’ve covered the basics of Starbound let’s talk about what’s required to host your server. Here are the minimum requirements to host a Starbound server:

Requirement	Minimum
Operating System	Windows 7/8/10 64-bit, macOS 10.9+, or Linux 64-bit
Processor	Intel Core i3 or higher
Memory	4 GB RAM
Storage Space	1 GB available space
Internet Connection	Broadband Connection

Ports to Forward

To host a Starbound server, you will need to forward the following ports on your router:

Protocol	Port
TCP	21025
UDP	21025

Getting Started with Starbound Server Hosting

Step 1: Download and Install Starbound

The first step in hosting a Starbound server is to download and install the game. You can purchase Starbound from several online stores, including Steam, GOG, and Humble Bundle. Once you’ve purchased the game, download and install it on your computer.

Step 2: Download and Install SteamCMD

SteamCMD is a command-line tool that allows you to download and install Steam games and dedicated game servers. To download SteamCMD, visit the official Valve developer community website and download the appropriate version for your operating system.

Step 3: Create a Starbound Server Directory

You need to create a directory where your Starbound server files will be stored. Create a directory anywhere on your computer, but it’s recommended to create it in a directory that’s easy to access.

Step 4: Set Up SteamCMD

Once you’ve downloaded and installed SteamCMD, you need to set it up by creating a batch file. A batch file is a script that executes a series of commands. Create a batch file in a text editor, copy the following code, and save it to a file with a .bat extension:

steamcmd +login anonymous +force_install_dir [path to your server directory] +app_update 211820 validate +quit

Replace [path to your server directory] with the path to the directory you created in Step 3. Save the batch file and run it. SteamCMD will download and install the necessary files to host a Starbound server.

Step 5: Configure Your Starbound Server

The next step is to configure your Starbound server. Navigate to the directory where you installed the server files and locate the starbound.config file. Open the file with a text editor, and you should see the following lines:

"serverName" : "My Starbound Server",
"maxPlayers" : 8,
"password" : "",
"serverPort" : 21025,
"bindAddress" : "0.0.0.0",

Change the values to suit your preferences. For example, you can change the server name, set a password, or change the maximum number of players. Once you’ve made your changes, save the file.

Step 6: Launch Your Starbound Server

You’re now ready to launch your Starbound server. Navigate to the directory where you installed the server files and run the starbound_server.exe file. The server should launch, and you can connect to it using the Starbound client.

Step 7: Connect to Your Server

To connect to your server, open the Starbound client and click on the Multiplayer option. Click on the Add Server button and enter the following information:

• Server Name: Enter a name for your server.
• Address: Enter your server’s IP address.
• Port: Enter the port number you forwarded in Step 2 (21025 by default).

Click on the Connect button, and you should be able to join your server.

FAQ

1. Can I host a Starbound server for free?

While it’s possible to host a Starbound server for free, it’s not recommended. Free hosting services often come with limited resources, poor performance, and unreliable uptime. It’s recommended to invest in a paid hosting service or host the server on your own hardware.

2. How many players can join my Starbound server?

By default, a Starbound server can support up to 8 players. However, you can increase this limit by modifying the starbound.config file.

3. Can I install mods on my Starbound server?

Yes, you can install mods on your Starbound server. The process is similar to installing mods on the Starbound client. Simply download the mod files and place them in the mods directory of your server.

4. How do I manage my Starbound server?

You can manage your Starbound server using the server console, which can be accessed by pressing the tilde key (~). From the console, you can perform various actions, such as kicking players, banning players, and changing server settings.

5. How do I ensure my Starbound server runs smoothly?

To ensure your Starbound server runs smoothly, make sure you have adequate resources, such as RAM and CPU power. You should also optimize your server settings, such as reducing the world size or limiting the number of players.

That’s everything you need to know to host a Starbound server. Follow these steps, and you’ll be up and running in no time. Good luck, Dev, and have fun exploring the vast universe of Starbound!