How to Make a Factorio Dedicated Server: Headless Setup and Saves

Install and start the headless server

1. Download the server package for your system from Factorio's official site. Keep the executable, saves and configuration in locations you can back up separately.
2. Create a world with --create, or copy the .zip save from an existing game. The official multiplayer documentation shows launch examples for each system.
3. Start the world with --start-server path/to/world.zip. Add --server-settings path/to/server-settings.json to control the server's name, visibility and access settings.
4. Allow UDP 34197, the default port, through the firewall. At home, forward that port from your router to the server machine. Test a local connection, then ask a friend outside your network to join.

Never publish passwords or service credentials in a public repository. See the official command-line reference for exact options.

Mods, Space Age and an always-running factory

Server and clients must use the same game version and mod set. When importing a Space Age factory, keep its official modules and check third-party mod dependencies. For a synchronization error, compare versions and mods before changing network settings.

The server stays reachable with no players, but the simulation pauses by default while empty. Enable no-auto-pause in server settings only if you want production to continue without players. Then plan regular backups and watch resource usage.

If your factory is still on 2.0, follow the Factorio 2.1 migration guide first: a save written in 2.1 cannot be taken back to 2.0.

Self-host or rent?

On your own PC, you manage port forwarding, updates and backups. Renting avoids keeping a machine running at home. Before choosing a host, confirm access to .zip saves, the game version, Space Age and mod support, and the backup policy. See the Factorio hosting comparison for listed offers.