How to Set Up an Enshrouded Dedicated Server on Windows
To set up an Enshrouded dedicated server, install the free server tool from Steam, run the executable once, edit enshrouded_server.json, allow the configured query port and connect through the in-game browser.
Steam Tools → Enshrouded Dedicated Server (App ID 2278520) Server config → enshrouded_server.json Default queryPort → 15637 UDP Allowed slotCount → 1 to 16
Install the dedicated server from Steam
Open your Steam Library, enable the Tools category and install Enshrouded Dedicated Server (Steam App ID 2278520). Open the tool’s Properties → Installed Files → Browse, then run the server executable directly from the folder. Keen Games recommends this approach rather than relying on Steam’s Launch button. Let the application start once so it creates enshrouded_server.json, and stop it before changing configuration.
Official documentation: Keen Games reference ↗
Configure the server name and player count
Open the generated enshrouded_server.json in a plain-text editor. Set a recognisable name, a slotCount from 1 to 16, and retain queryPort: 15637 unless you need a different port. Keep ip: "0.0.0.0" for normal listening behaviour. Avoid pasting a completely new example over the generated file, because the current version may include additional settings and user-group permissions.
Open the Enshrouded query port
The official default is UDP query port 15637. Allow the server executable or that UDP port through Windows Firewall and forward the matching port to the server PC’s stable LAN address if players connect over the internet. Steam may need its documented service ports as well. Do not expose an entire router DMZ to fix one game server. If your ISP uses carrier-grade NAT, ask about public IPv4 service or consider managed hosting.
Official documentation: Keen Games reference ↗
Start and find your server
Start the executable again and inspect its log folder, usually ./logs. Wait for the server to reach its online state, then use Enshrouded’s Join menu and dedicated-server filters to find its name. If the name does not appear immediately, test direct connection or Steam favourites by IP and query port. A missing listing may be a firewall or query-port issue rather than a failed server process.
Self-hosting versus paid server hosting
Self-hosting gives direct control but makes your PC, electricity, router, updates and backup schedule part of the service. Renting an Enshrouded server transfers much of that maintenance to a provider. Compare the full recurring price of a plan with adequate resources, the nearest region and a practical restore workflow before ordering.
Common setup mistakes and quick checks
If the server process closes immediately, inspect the latest log and confirm that the JSON is valid. If the server starts but cannot be found, verify the configured query port, firewall rule and router forwarding against the server PC’s LAN address. If only remote players fail to connect, investigate carrier-grade NAT or ISP restrictions before changing the game settings. Finally, make sure the client and dedicated server are running compatible game builds after an update.
How to update an existing Enshrouded server to 1.0
Stop the dedicated server, export its entire save directory and working configuration, then update the server files through Steam or the hosting control panel. Keen Games states that older 0.8-and-earlier saves are backed up and converted when opened by version 1.0. Allow that process to finish, review the server logs and ask one player to check the world before reopening it to the whole group. Do not delete the pre-update backup until the converted world has been verified.
When managed hosting makes more sense
A self-hosted machine consumes electricity, depends on your home connection and requires the PC to remain available whenever friends want to play. A managed host generally simplifies patching, file management and connectivity, although features vary by provider. If you plan to play a persistent sixteen-player world, compare providers on hardware transparency, backups and available UK or EU server locations rather than selecting the smallest listed package.
Compare Enshrouded hosting plans
Compare provider pricing, RAM allowances, UK/EU regions and backup tools before choosing a server. A low advertised entry price only helps if the package fits your group.
Best Enshrouded Server Hosting →Related Enshrouded server guides
These guides cover the next practical step, from sizing and installation to keeping your world safe after Enshrouded 1.0.
Technical documentation and game features can change after updates. For a rented server, follow the provider’s current panel instructions where they differ from a self-hosted installation.
