How to Make a Hytale Server: Setup, Connections and Hosting

Install the server files

For a first test on Windows, install Hytale through its launcher and open %appdata%\Hytale\install\release\package\game\latest. Copy both Server/ and Assets.zip to a new directory outside the launcher installation. The server needs access to both. The official manual lists Linux and macOS paths too, and recommends the Hytale Downloader CLI for a production installation that is easier to update.

Install Java 25 and check the result of java --version. An older Java version does not meet Hytale's published requirement. Do not infer a player capacity from the 4 GB minimum: actual usage depends on player behavior, entities and loaded world area.

Start and authenticate the server

From inside Server/, start the JAR with the path to the assets in its parent directory:

java -jar HytaleServer.jar --assets ../Assets.zip

In the server console, enter /auth login device, open the displayed device-login page and confirm the code with your Hytale account. Authentication is required before players can connect. Keep authentication files private; do not paste them into public screenshots or support posts.

After first launch, run /update setup to create the official start.sh and start.bat wrappers in the parent directory, then restart through the script for your system. These wrappers apply staged updates and enable periodic backups by default. Our Hytale update guide explains how to protect your world and mods before changing versions.

Let friends connect

Hytale uses UDP 5520 by default over QUIC. First test the server's private address from the same local network. For friends outside your home, allow UDP 5520 through the firewall and forward it from your router to the hosting machine. Ask someone on another network to test the public address. If your connection uses CGNAT or lacks a reachable public address, local port forwarding may not be enough; ask your ISP about options or use an external host.

If a connection fails, separate network trouble from startup trouble: check that the server is authenticated and finishes loading in the console before testing the port. Do not open unrelated ports at random.

Self-host or rent a Hytale server?

Self-hosting gives you file access without a monthly subscription, but the machine must stay on and you manage network access and backups. A provider supplies the machine and a control panel. Before buying, verify access to universe/ and mods/, downloadable backups, server authentication and the update workflow.

See the Hytale hosting comparison for available plans and the server cost guide for budgets. Size a plan using observed load: Hytale says players and entities drive CPU use, while loaded world area and view distance drive memory use.

Frequently asked questions

Is Java 25 required? The official manual specifies Java 25 for dedicated servers. Check the installed version with java --version before troubleshooting other causes.

Which port should I open? UDP 5520 by default. On a hosted plan, use the address and port shown in its panel; they may differ.

Where is the world stored? Under universe/, with playable worlds in universe/worlds/. Download an off-server copy before any major update or move.