Can You Use Commands on a Valheim Server? A Comprehensive Guide

Yes, you absolutely can use commands on a Valheim server, but it’s not as straightforward as using them in single-player mode. The ability to use commands depends on whether you are playing on a dedicated server or a server hosted directly from the game client, as well as your admin status on the server. This guide will break down everything you need to know about using commands in Valheim multiplayer, including how to enable them, what commands are available, and how to troubleshoot common issues.

Understanding Valheim Commands: Cheats vs. Admin Commands

It’s crucial to differentiate between cheat commands and admin commands in Valheim.

• Cheat Commands: These are typically used in single-player worlds to grant players abilities like god mode, flying, or spawning items. These are activated by typing “devcommands” into the console.
• Admin Commands: These are designed for server administrators and often include control over the server itself. They can include server management tasks, player management, or some of the cheat-like abilities if enabled through specific methods.

Generally, cheat commands do not work directly on dedicated servers. Instead, you will need to use specific administrative tools and methods to achieve similar results.

Enabling Console Access in Valheim

Before you can use any commands, you need to enable the console in Valheim. Here’s how:

1. Open Steam: Navigate to your Steam library.
2. Find Valheim: Locate Valheim in your game list.
3. Right-Click: Right-click on Valheim and select “Properties.”
4. Launch Options: In the “General” tab, find “Launch Options.”
5. Enter Command: Type “-console” in the text field.

Now, when you launch Valheim, you can open the console by pressing the F5 key.

Using Commands on a Dedicated Valheim Server

Admin Privileges

The most important thing to understand when using commands on a dedicated server is that you need to have admin privileges. This usually involves the server owner or an authorized admin configuring the server properly to allow certain players to use commands.

How to Become an Admin

1. Access Server Settings: Usually, you’ll manage your server settings through a control panel, often provided by your server hosting service.
2. Find Admin Configuration: Look for a section related to admin or permissions configuration. This could be a file or an input field on the control panel.
3. Add Player IDs: In the relevant file or field, you will typically add the Steam ID of the player you want to have admin access. The specific process can differ, but it usually involves adding the Steam ID and sometimes another identifier.
4. Restart Server: Once you’ve added the IDs, you need to restart your server for the changes to take effect.

Activating Admin Commands In-Game

Once you are an admin, you typically activate admin command access in-game by typing enablecheats [password] (the password usually being 0123456 or the server’s password) into the console. After activation you can either use cheat commands directly such as cheat god or use showmyadminmanager command in the console to open the Admin Manager.

Common Admin Commands

While the specific commands might vary slightly, here are some typical admin commands you might use:

• god: Activates god mode, making you invulnerable.
• ghost: Makes you invisible and allows you to pass through objects.
• spawn [item] [quantity] [level]: Spawns an item with the specified quantity and level. For example, spawn Coins 50 will spawn 50 coins.
• pos: Displays your current coordinates.
• goto [x,y,z]: Teleports you to the specified coordinates.
• killall: Kills all nearby enemies.
• kick [player name/ID]: Kicks a player from the server.
• ban [player name/ID]: Bans a player from the server.
• unban [player name/ID]: Unbans a player from the server.

Important Notes:

• Specific Syntax: Pay close attention to command syntax as small errors can lead to the commands not working.
• Server Settings: Some servers may have restrictions or specific methods to use admin commands, so check your hosting provider’s documentation.
• Mods/Plugins: For enhanced control over commands or if basic methods do not meet your needs, consider using mods or plugins, which require additional setup and often come with a learning curve.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I use cheat commands directly on a dedicated Valheim server?

No, typically cheat commands like god or fly do not work directly on a dedicated server unless you enable them through specific admin tools or methods or use mods/plugins. You must be an admin and may need to type enablecheats [password] into the console before they work, or use admin manager.

2. Why isn’t the console opening when I press F5?

Ensure you have correctly entered the -console launch option in the game properties on Steam. Verify spelling and that there are no extra spaces. Then, restart the game and try again.

3. How do I become an admin on a Valheim server?

You typically need to add your Steam ID to an admin list file or settings page within your server’s control panel, provided by your server hosting. Once you add it, you’ll need to restart the server.

4. What is the devcommands command?

devcommands is the command to enable cheat commands in single-player mode. It does not directly enable cheats on a dedicated server. Admin commands are activated after using enablecheats [password] or the Admin Manager.

5. Can I spawn items on a dedicated server?

Yes, you can spawn items on a dedicated server if you have admin access and use the proper spawn command syntax, or an Admin Manager. For example, spawn Coins 50.

6. How do I find a player’s ID to kick or ban them?

You can view the players currently on your server by pressing F2. From here, you can see player names, IDs and kick or ban them as required.

7. How do I use mods or plugins on a Valheim server to enhance commands?

You can use tools such as r2modman or Thunderstore Mod Manager to install server-side mods. They require a server-side installation to work. Make sure to share a mod pack with your friends to ensure they all have the correct versions.

8. Is there a limit to how many players can be on a Valheim server?

Valheim servers are capped at 10 players.

9. How much RAM does a Valheim server need?

The official requirement is at least a 4 core CPU with 2GB of RAM and 2 GB of storage, but for the best performance with a few players, allocate 3GB of RAM or more.

10. Can my friend play on my Valheim server without me being logged in?

Yes, if you have set up a dedicated server, it can run even when you are not online. This usually means you’ll need a computer that is continuously online, or a rented server through a third-party provider.

11. How do I fly in Valheim?

To fly in Valheim when using cheat commands, you typically need to activate them through the console first, and then using the Z key. Press spacebar to fly up and Ctrl to fly down

12. How do I enable console commands in Valheim in 2023?

Follow the steps described earlier. Right-click on Valheim in your Steam library, go to ‘Properties’, then ‘General’, and add -console under ‘Launch Options’.

13. Can I host a free 24/7 Valheim server?

Yes, there are ways to host a free server, but you will require a capable computer to stay online all the time. Server hosting providers can also offer free options with certain limitations.

14. What is the command to open the admin manager?

Type showmyadminmanager into the console after enabling cheats.

15. How can I share a server mod pack with my friends?

Use mod managers like r2modman or Thunderstore Mod Manager. The managers allow you to create a mod profile to share with other players for identical mod load-outs.

Conclusion

While using commands on a Valheim server is a bit more involved than using them in a single-player game, it’s entirely possible with the proper setup. Ensure you have admin privileges, access to server settings, and follow the correct command syntax. Don’t hesitate to explore mods and plugins to enhance your server management experience further. This guide should equip you with the knowledge to effectively use commands on your Valheim server, ensuring you and your players have a smooth and enjoyable experience.