How to Make a Core Keeper Server in 2026

How do you create a dedicated Core Keeper server, hosted or on your own PC? SteamCMD, ports 27015/27016, and config, step by step.

Published on 27 août 2026

Want a persistent Core Keeper world your party can dig into any time, without one person always hosting? A dedicated server keeps your world running independently. Here's how to set one up, both ways.

The two ways to create a Core Keeper server

Option 1: host with a provider

You rent a Core Keeper server from a specialised host. It runs 24/7, comes with a panel for files and backups, and includes DDoS protection. See our [Core Keeper server cost guide](/en/guides/core-keeper/core-keeper-server-cost) for real prices from €4.99/month.

Option 2: run the server on your PC

You install the dedicated server via SteamCMD and run it at home. Free on the software side, but your PC needs to stay on, and you handle port forwarding and the launch config yourself.

Which option should you choose?

For a world your group actually plays over weeks or months, go with a host — under €5/month removes the always-on requirement entirely.

Creating a Core Keeper server with a host (recommended)

Choose your plan based on player count

Core Keeper's standard world supports up to 8 players. For a small party, the entry tier is enough; for the full 8, compare NitroServ's 8-slot plan (€9.99/mo) against Minestrator's MyBox 8 (€13.99/mo) in our [hosting comparison](/en/games/core-keeper).

Order and access the panel

After ordering, you receive panel access by email. Your server appears in Stopped status, ready to configure.

Set your world name, seed and password

Most panels let you generate a fresh world with a seed of your choice, or import an existing save. Set an optional password and your max player count.

Start the server and connect

Start it from the panel, then connect in-game via the server browser or direct IP if your host provides one.

Creating a Core Keeper server on your own PC

Install SteamCMD

Download SteamCMD and extract it to a folder, e.g. C:\steamcmd.

Download the dedicated server files

Run: steamcmd +force_install_dir C:\CoreKeeperServer\ +login anonymous +app_update 1963720 validate +quit. Note this is a different AppID (1963720) from the game client — don't confuse the two.

Open your ports

Core Keeper uses two UDP ports, 27015 and 27016, by default. On Windows, allow both with New-NetFirewallRule -DisplayName "CoreKeeper" -Direction Inbound -Protocol UDP -LocalPort 27015,27016 -Action Allow. On Linux: sudo ufw allow 27015/udp and sudo ufw allow 27016/udp. Forward both on your router too.

Configure your world

Edit the launch config with your world name, max player count, and either a new seed or an imported save. Key settings: Port (27015), MaxPlayers, Password, ServerName and ServerDescription.

Launch and keep it running

Start the server executable. Your PC needs to stay on and awake for the world to stay accessible.

Not built for 24/7 uptime

Frequently asked questions about creating a Core Keeper server

What ports does Core Keeper need forwarded?

UDP 27015 and UDP 27016, both configurable in the server launch settings. Hosted plans handle this automatically.

What is the Core Keeper dedicated server's Steam AppID?

1963720 — different from the main game client's AppID (1621690). Make sure you install the server AppID on your box.

How many players can a Core Keeper server support?

8 players is the standard world size, matching every hosting plan we track.

Our recommendation

Ready to launch your Core Keeper server?

Here are the best Core Keeper hosting deals right now, promo codes included. Still unsure? Our quiz finds the ideal host for you in under 2 minutes.

Budget

MyBox 4

Minestrator

6.99€/month

-10% with code HOSTMYGAME

Max players:4

Mods:

Specifications

RAM:4GB(DDR4)

Compatible games

Core Keeper

Features

✓Anti-DDoS protection
✓SmartBackup automatic backups
✓Web panel
✓French support 7j/7

See offer

Budget

4 Slots

NitroServ

4.99€/month

-20% with code HOSTMYGAME