Space Engineers takes multiplayer experiences to new heights with its dedicated server functionality, allowing multiple players to join and host their multiplayer sessions.
A dedicated server is a hosting environment specifically designed to offer a smoother gameplay experience, ensuring stability, reduced latency, and an enhanced collaborative environment.
As you read on, you will be able to establish how to set up a dedicated server, but for a hassle-free experience, considering a Dedicated hosting provider for your Space Engineers gameplay might be your best bet. Dive in to find out more!
Top Dedicated Server Hosting Providers for Gaming
| Provider | User Rating | Best For | Expert & User Reviews | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
 | 4.6 | Ease of Use | Hostinger Review | Visit Hostinger |
 | 4.0 | Affordability | IONOS Review | Visit IONOS |
 | 4.8 | Reliability | Kamatera Review | Visit Kamatera |
- Hosting a Space Engineers Dedicated Server allows you to shape a unique and immersive space adventure tailored to your preferences and playstyle
- A dedicated server provides full control over mods, settings, and player interactions, providing limitless possibilities for gameplay customization
- Foster a vibrant player community, enabling collaboration and competition
- Meet system requirements and optimize for a smooth, lag-free experience.
- Regular maintenance keeps the server up-to-date, secure, and issue-free.
What Are the System Requirements and Technical Considerations for Hosting a Space Engineers Dedicated Server?
Hardware Requirements for Space Engineers Dedicated Server
CPU
- Minimum: Intel Quad Core i7 or equivalent
- Recommended: Intel i7 7700K processor or better for higher player capacity
RAM
- Minimum: 8GB
- Recommended: 16GB or more for large player numbers and complex mods
Disk Space
- Base Game: At least 10GB free space
- Mods: Additional space depending on the number and size of mods (typically 1-2GB for popular mod collections)
- Backups: Ensure ample space, depending on frequency and size of world data (an average world can be 300MB or more)
Disk Type
- SSD is highly recommended for faster data retrieval and smoother gameplay
Considering these hardware specifications will ensure optimal server performance, catering to varying player loads and additional modifications.
Software Requirements and Supported Platforms
Compatible Operating Systems
- Windows 7 (64-bit version)
- Windows 8/8.1 (64-bit version)
- Windows 10 (64-bit version)
Required Software Dependencies
- NET Framework 4.5.2 or higher
- DirectX 11
- Visual C++ Redistributable for Visual Studio 2015
Network Considerations for Optimal Performance
Internet Connection
- Minimum upload speed: 5 Mbps
- Recommended upload speed: 20 Mbps or higher for larger player counts
- Stable connection with low latency is crucial
Port Forwarding & Firewall Configurations:
- Forward TCP and UDP ports 27016 (or your chosen game port)
- Forward UDP port 27015 for server discovery
- Allow these ports through the server’s firewall
- Ensure any external firewalls or security systems also allow these ports
- Use your router’s interface to set up port forwarding to your server’s internal IP address
Choosing Between Self-Hosting and Third-Party Hosting Services
Self-hosting Advantages
- Full control over server hardware and software
- No monthly hosting fees
- Direct access for troubleshooting and configuration
Disadvantages
- Initial setup can be complex
- Requires regular maintenance and updates
- Potential higher initial costs for hardware and internet setup
- Risk of hardware failures and potential downtime
Third-party Hosting Service Advantages
- Quick and easy setup
- Professional maintenance and updates
- Scalability to accommodate player growth
- Built-in redundancy and backup solutions
Disadvantages
- Monthly or yearly fees
- Less direct control over hardware and software configurations
- Potential latency or performance issues if the host is overcrowded
Technical Expertise & Resources
- Self-hosting: Requires in-depth knowledge of server setups, networking, software configurations, and hardware troubleshooting
- Third-party Hosting Service: Lower technical expertise needed; most complex tasks are managed by the third-party hosting provider, with user-friendly interfaces for basic configurations
Scalability and Upgrading Options
Anticipating server growth is crucial for a seamless gaming experience. As player demand increases, regularly assess your server’s performance metrics and be prepared to make necessary upgrades.
By proactively planning for scalability, you ensure consistent performance and player satisfaction.
Server Location and Latency Management
Selecting Server Location
- Identify where the majority of your players are based
- Choose a central server location to balance latency for players from various regions
- Consider using multiple server locations if player base is globally spread
Strategies to Minimize Lag
- Opt for SSDs over HDDs for faster data access
- Regularly monitor and upgrade server bandwidth
- Limit or manage resource-intensive mods and plugins
- Optimize server settings, including tick rate
- Consider content delivery networks (CDNs) to distribute game data
- Encourage players to use wired connections and optimized game settings
Backup and Data Security Measures
Regularly schedule and perform backups to ensure game data and player progress are secure, storing backups in multiple locations for redundancy.
Enhance server security with firewalls, updated software, and strong authentication measures.
Always prioritize players’ privacy by encrypting sensitive data and limiting access to authorized personnel only.
Performance Monitoring and Optimization
Utilizing Monitoring Tools
- Implement server monitoring software for real-time performance tracking
- Regularly review CPU, RAM, and bandwidth usage metrics
- Monitor player counts to gauge server load
- Identify and address recurring server issues or bottlenecks
Tips for Optimizing Server Settings
- Adjust server tick rate to balance performance and gameplay smoothness
- Ensure the server is running on SSDs for faster data access
- Prioritize essential mods and plugins, removing any that cause lag or conflicts
- Allocate more resources during high-traffic periods or events
- Regularly update server software and dependencies to leverage performance improvements
- Consider offloading some tasks to secondary servers or cloud solutions
How Do I Set Up a Dedicated Server for Space Engineers on My Computer or Through a Hosting Service?
Here is how to set up a Space Engineers Dedicated Server on your computer or a hosting service:
Step 1: Setting Up a Space Engineers Dedicated Server on Your Computer
To install and configure the Space Engineers Dedicated Server software, begin by downloading the server software from Steam using the SteamCMD tool. After installation, navigate to the server’s directory to find the ‘DedicatedServer64’ folder. Within:
- World Settings: Open ‘SpaceEngineers-Dedicated.cfg’ with a text editor and adjust world-specific settings such as auto-saving intervals, day-night cycles, or inventory sizes
- Mods: To add mods, you’ll need their specific IDs from the Steam Workshop. Add these IDs to the ‘ModIds’ section in the configuration file.
- Admin Privileges: Insert the Steam64 IDs of players you wish to grant administrative rights to in the ‘Administrators’ section of the configuration file. This grants them control over in-game commands and server functionalities.
Ensure to save changes after configuring. With the proper settings in place, launch the server using the ‘SpaceEngineersDedicated.exe’ file, and your server will be live and ready for players!
Step 2: Deploying a Space Engineers Dedicated Server Through a Hosting Service
When looking to host a Space Engineers server, start by researching reputable hosting services specializing in game servers, considering factors such as uptime, customer reviews, and server locations. Once you’ve shortlisted a few:
- Compare Features: Evaluate the server specifications offered, ensuring they meet Space Engineers’ requirements, especially in terms of CPU cores, RAM, and bandwidth
- Pricing Plans: Review the different plans available, selecting one that balances cost with the server resources you anticipate needing
- Purchase: After settling on a hosting service and plan, proceed with the purchase, often done through the provider’s website
- Access Server Management Tools: Post-purchase, the hosting service typically provides access to server management tools or control panels, allowing you to configure, launch, or troubleshoot your Space Engineers server with ease
Remember to ensure that customer support is responsive and helpful, as this will be crucial if you run into any server-related issues.
Step 3: Configuring Server Settings for Optimal Performance
Optimizing your server parameters is essential for an uninterrupted and smooth gaming experience. Consider the following to achieve this:
- Server Hardware: Prioritize high-performance hardware, specifically ensuring that the CPU, RAM, and SSD are up to industry standards for game hosting
- Tick Rate: Adjust the server’s tick rate, which is the frequency with which it updates game events. A higher tick rate ensures smoother gameplay but may consume more resources.
- Player Limits: Set a maximum player count that aligns with your server’s capacity. Overloading with too many players can degrade performance.
- Mods and Plugins: Regularly update and evaluate mods or plugins, removing any that are outdated or cause server lag
- Monitor & Allocate Resources: Utilize server management tools to monitor real-time resource usage, and if necessary, allocate more resources to high-demand tasks or limit resource-intensive processes
Fine-tuning these parameters based on player feedback and monitoring tools will ensure a stable and seamless gameplay environment for all users.
Step 4: Installing and Managing Mods on Your Dedicated Server
Mods, or modifications, significantly enrich gameplay by introducing new content, mechanics, or aesthetics, fostering a more immersive and tailored gaming experience that resonates with a diverse audience.
This adaptability nurtures community engagement, as players often coalesce around shared interests or unique server themes. To optimize the use of mods:
- Installation: Download desired mods from trusted sources or platforms like the Steam Workshop and place them in your game directory’s designated ‘Mods’ folder
- Updates: Regularly check for mod updates to ensure compatibility and enhanced features; outdated mods can cause conflicts or game crashes
- Maintenance & Compatibility: Periodically review and test mods together, as some might conflict with each other. Prioritize those that align with your server’s theme and audience preferences
Effectively managed mods can turn a standard server into a thriving, unique ecosystem, fostering deeper player connections and shared adventures.
Step 5: Setting Up Server Rules and Moderation
Establishing a cohesive and respectful gaming community hinges on setting clear rules and guidelines for player behavior. To cultivate a harmonious server environment:
- Documentation: Draft a comprehensive document or ‘Server Rulebook’, outlining expected behavior, and make it easily accessible to all players, ideally pinned or featured prominently upon server entry
- Active Moderation: Appoint trustworthy moderators to monitor in-game interactions, ensuring rule compliance and promptly addressing any rule breaches
- Clear Consequences: Outline specific repercussions for rule violations, such as warnings, temporary bans, or permanent bans, ensuring players are aware of potential consequences
- Open Communication: Foster a channel for players to report any misconduct or concerns and actively encourage a positive feedback loop to keep the environment evolving
Step 6: Promoting Your Space Engineers Dedicated Server
Crafting an enticing server description is vital to attract potential players. To achieve this, focus on conveying the unique aspects and value proposition of your server:
- Clear Synopsis: Begin with a concise summary that highlights the server’s main theme, gameplay style, and any special features or mods.
- Engaging Visuals: Incorporate captivating images or short video clips to showcase gameplay, events, or notable locations within the server.
- Active Promotion: Share your server description on social media platforms, gaming forums, and dedicated communities. Engaging content, coupled with strategic hashtags or trending topics, can significantly boost visibility.
- Community Engagement: Encourage current players to share their experiences, leave reviews, and spread the word, creating organic promotion and trust.
Step 7: Building and Nurturing a Server Community
Fostering a vibrant sense of community hinges on encouraging player interaction and shared experiences. To nurture this camaraderie:
- Organize Events: Schedule regular in-game events, such as tournaments, scavenger hunts, or building competitions, offering both entertainment and opportunities for collaboration
- Dedicated Spaces: Designate communal areas within the server, like town halls or marketplaces, where players can congregate, trade, or discuss
- Feedback Channels: Provide platforms for players to share suggestions, stories, or feedback, promoting open dialogue and a sense of collective ownership
- Recognize Achievements: Celebrate individual and group milestones, be it through leaderboards, awards, or server-wide announcements, fostering pride and healthy competition
Through these initiatives, players not only interact more but also cultivate deeper connections, solidifying the server’s status as a communal digital haven.
Step 8: Regular Maintenance and Troubleshooting
To ensure the consistent and efficient operation of a server, regular maintenance is indispensable. To achieve optimal performance:
- Schedule Backups: Regularly backup server data to prevent loss, scheduling these during off-peak hours to minimize player disruption
- Monitor Server Health: Use server management tools to keep tabs on resource usage, identifying and addressing potential bottlenecks or overloads in real-time
- Update Regularly: Periodically update the server software, mods, and plugins to their latest versions, ensuring compatibility and security
- Troubleshoot Promptly: Familiarize yourself with common server issues, such as lag or crashes, and maintain a troubleshooting guide or FAQ for quick resolutions.
Address reported issues swiftly, ensuring clear communication with the player base about fixes and expected downtimes.
How Can I Optimize the Performance of My Space Engineers Dedicated Server?
To achieve optimal performance, consider the following dedicated server tips and strategies:
Server Settings and Configuration Tweaks
Adjusting in-game settings can significantly enhance server performance and stability.
Settings like render distance, particle effects, and entity count can have varying impacts on server load; reducing them often leads to smoother gameplay.
Periodically review and tweak these settings based on player feedback and server metrics to strike a balance between visual fidelity and optimal performance.
Mod Management and Compatibility
Regularly review and update mods to ensure compatibility with the latest game version, as outdated mods can lead to server instability or crashes.
Monitor server performance post-mod updates to detect any conflicts or issues. If inconsistencies arise, methodically isolate and test mods to identify and rectify the culprits affecting server performance.
Regular Maintenance and Cleaning
Routine server maintenance, such as clearing obsolete data and logs, is vital to sustain optimal performance.
Regularly prune and manage world saves to prevent data bloat, ensuring that outdated or redundant saves are archived or deleted.
By proactively managing server resources and data, server efficiency and speed are maintained, ensuring a smooth gameplay experience.
Resource Allocation and CPU Affinity
Allocate dedicated CPU cores and appropriate RAM to the Space Engineers Dedicated Server to ensure smooth gameplay and efficient resource use.
Utilize CPU affinity settings to assign specific cores exclusively to the server, preventing other processes from impacting its performance.
Continuously monitor resource utilization, adjusting allocations as needed based on server load and player count.
Network and Latency Optimization
Monitor network performance using specialized tools to pinpoint any latency spikes or inconsistencies. Identify potential sources of lag, such as high player counts, data packet loss, or server location mismatches.
Implement solutions like optimizing server settings, relocating servers closer to player bases, or increasing bandwidth to enhance the overall player experience and minimize lag.
Utilizing Performance Monitoring Tools
Leverage performance monitoring tools to gain insights into server operations, pinpointing areas of strain or inefficiency.
Regularly review server logs and metrics to identify patterns, anomalies, or potential issues affecting performance.
Utilize this data-driven approach to adjust server settings, ensuring optimized gameplay and a robust server environment.
Regular Updates and Game Patches
Regularly check for and apply Space Engineers updates and patches, as they often bring performance enhancements and bug fixes.
Ensure mods and server software are concurrently updated to maintain compatibility with the latest game version.
Proactive updating minimizes conflicts and vulnerabilities, ensuring stable gameplay and leveraging new improvements.
Collaborating With Players for Feedback
Actively engage with the player community through forums, chat platforms, or in-game tools to solicit feedback regarding server performance.
Pay close attention to recurring concerns, as they often highlight areas needing improvement or adjustment.
By valuing and acting on player feedback, you can optimize the server environment, enhancing the overall gameplay experience.
Load Testing and Stress Testing
Conduct load tests on your server to simulate various player counts, measuring its ability to handle traffic and maintain stable performance.
Stress testing, especially during simulated peak load scenarios, provides insights into potential bottlenecks or vulnerabilities.
This approach ensures that the server remains resilient and efficient, even during actual high-traffic periods.
Backups and Disaster Recovery
Ensure that server data, including world saves and player progress, is regularly backed up to secure storage solutions, safeguarding against potential data loss.
Implement a comprehensive disaster recovery plan detailing steps for data retrieval and server restoration.
By preparing for the unexpected, you can quickly rebound from emergencies, minimizing downtime and preserving player trust.
Read more about Hostinger
What Are the Best Practices for Managing and Maintaining My Space Engineers Dedicated Server?
Regular Server Backups and Restorations
- Implement scheduled backup routine to safeguard against data loss
- Test backups by restoring in a controlled environment for data integrity
- Ensure a reliable safety net to swiftly address and recover from potential server failures
Server Version and Mod Updates
- Keep server software and mods consistently updated for latest features and security patches
- Verify mod compatibility with each Space Engineers update
- Maintain server stability, enhance player experience, and mitigate vulnerabilities
Active Moderation and Rule Enforcement
- Establish clear rules and guidelines for a harmonious gaming environment
- Enforce rules consistently and impartially, ensuring fairness
- Swiftly address disruptive behavior to preserve server integrity and trust
Regular World Maintenance and Cleanups
- Monitor world size and performance to prevent strain on server functionality
- Periodically clear out abandoned or unused in-game structures
- Proactively manage world data for a smoother gameplay experience
Performance Monitoring and Optimization
- Use performance monitoring tools to track server metrics and pinpoint bottlenecks
- Analyze server logs for issues affecting gameplay and stability
- Fine-tune server settings based on analysis for an optimized gameplay experience
Community Engagement and Feedback
- Engage with the player community to gather insights on server performance and user experience
- Address player suggestions to enhance gameplay dynamics
- Foster trust and collaboration within the gaming community
Redundancy and Failover Plans
- Implement redundancy measures for guaranteed server uptime, even during hardware failures
- Develop a failover plan for transitioning to backup hardware or hosting services in emergencies
- Minimize downtime for a reliable and consistent gameplay experience
Regular Server Health Checks
- Conduct routine health checks to identify potential hardware or software issues
- Monitor key metrics such as resource usage, disk health, and network performance
- Early detection and rectification of issues ensure uninterrupted gameplay and system stability
Examples of Space Engineers Dedicated Server
“The Galactic Frontierâ€
A Space Engineers Dedicated Server featuring custom-modded planets, player-driven economy, and intense faction warfare.
“Mars Colonization Initiativeâ€
An immersive Space Engineers Dedicated Server focused on cooperative Mars colonization, with resource management challenges and realistic environmental conditions.
“Stellar Empiresâ€
A persistent Space Engineers Dedicated Server with a vast galaxy map, multiple star systems, and player-run corporations competing for dominance.
Conclusion
Having delved deep into the intricacies of setting up a Space Engineers dedicated server, you should now be well-equipped to establish a server tailored to your gameplay preferences, complete with recommended mods and plugins to enhance the gaming experience.
And as your server thrives with players connecting and engaging, you might ponder upon what other enhancements you can introduce.
To aid you in this, don’t forget to explore our comprehensive list of Best Cheap Dedicated Servers in Gaming to pinpoint the ideal hosting provider to elevate your gaming journey further.
Next Steps: What Now?
- Check out this article on the differences between VPS and dedicated hosting
- Learn what is a dedicated server and learn what is dedicated server in gaming
- Read about the Best Windows Dedicated Server Hosting Providers of 2023
- Discover the top six questions to ask yourself before choosing a dedicated server
