How to Host a Hytale Dedicated Server (Easy Guide)

Hytale is a block-based adventure where you can explore huge worlds, build almost anything and take on creatures with your friends. A dedicated server is the best way to play together, because the world is separate from your game. Friends can join without you being online, everyone can keep working on shared builds, and your single-player saves stay untouched.

In this guide, you’ll learn how to set up a Hytale dedicated server on your own PC, step by step. If you’d rather skip the setup, we’ll also show you the faster option: a server that’s ready in minutes with AleForge.

Early Access note: Hytale is still in Early Access, and updates arrive often. File names, commands and settings can change between versions, so if something looks different on your screen, check the official Hytale news.

What You’ll Need

That last point is the big catch with self-hosting. If your PC is off, your world is off too.

Step 1: Install Java 25

Hytale’s server runs on Java 25, so install that first.

1. Download Java 25 from a trusted provider. Choose the 64-bit version for your operating system.
2. After installing, open Command Prompt (Windows) or Terminal (Linux) and run:

java --version

3. You should see a version number starting with 25, for example openjdk 25.0.1.

If Java isn’t found, or an older version appears, reinstall Java 25 or update your system’s Java path so it points to the new version.

Step 2: Get the Server Files

Your server needs two things: the server program and the game assets. There are two ways to get them.

Option A: Copy them from your Hytale install (easiest)

If you already have Hytale installed, copy the files straight from the game.

1. Find your Hytale install folder. The usual locations end in Hytale/install/release/package/game/latest:
   • Windows: %appdata%\Hytale\install\release\package\game\latest
   • Linux: $XDG_DATA_HOME/Hytale/install/release/package/game/latest
2. Inside the latest folder, look for a Server folder and an Assets.zip file.
3. Create a new, empty folder for your server, such as C:\HytaleServer on Windows or ~/hytale-server on Linux.
4. Copy the Server folder contents (including HytaleServer.jar) and Assets.zip into it.

Option B: Use the official Hytale downloader (advanced)

Hytale also offers a command-line downloader that fetches the latest server files and assets for you. It’s handy for keeping a server up to date, but it’s less beginner-friendly, so most people start with Option A.

Step 3: Start the Server for the First Time

1. Open a terminal inside your server folder, the one that contains HytaleServer.jar and Assets.zip.
2. Run:

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

3. On the first run, the server creates its own files and folders, including config.json, a logs folder and a universe folder where your world is saved.
4. The server then pauses and asks you to sign in, which is the next step.

If the window closes straight away or shows errors, check that the files are in the right folder and that Java 25 is installed. To see every available option, run java -jar HytaleServer.jar --help.

Want to skip all of this?

Setting up a server yourself means installing Java, copying files, signing in, forwarding ports and keeping your PC running around the clock. With AleForge, you don’t have to.

AleForge Hytale server hosting gives you a server that’s ready in minutes, with:

• No Java or file downloads. The server software is set up for you.
• No port forwarding. You get an address to share, and your home IP stays private.
• Always online. Your world keeps running when you log off.
• A simple control panel. Start, stop and manage your server from Blacksmith’s Portal, with a live console, file manager and scheduler.
• Backups and DDoS protection. One-click and scheduled backups, plus Cloudflare Spectrum protection at no extra cost.
• 24/7 support by ticket, live chat and Discord.

Get your Hytale server at aleforge.net →

Step 4: Authenticate Your Server

Before anyone can join, your server has to sign in to Hytale’s online services.

1. In the server console, type this command and press Enter:

/auth login device

2. The console shows a website link and a short code, for example ABCD-1234.
3. Open the link in your browser, sign in to your Hytale account and enter the code. Do this promptly, because the code expires after a few minutes.
4. Return to the console. You should see a message that authentication was successful.

You only need to do this once per game version. After that, your server can connect to Hytale’s services and let players in.

Step 5: Open the Port and Check Your Firewall

Hytale uses UDP port 5520 by default, over the QUIC protocol. To let friends join over the internet, you need to open it.

Forward the port on your router

1. Sign in to your router’s admin page and find the port forwarding section.
2. Forward UDP port 5520 to the local IP address of the computer running the server.
3. You don’t need to forward TCP. Only UDP.

Allow the port through your firewall

• Windows: In Windows Defender Firewall, add a new inbound rule that allows UDP port 5520.
• Linux (ufw): Run sudo ufw allow 5520/udp.

Opening TCP instead of UDP is the most common reason friends can’t connect, so double-check this step.

Step 6: Run the Server and Connect

Start the server the same way as before:

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

Want to give the server a fixed amount of memory? Add the -Xms and -Xmx options. For example, this uses 4 GB:

java -Xms4G -Xmx4G -jar HytaleServer.jar --assets Assets.zip

If you’re not sure, the basic command works fine.

Once the server is running and authenticated:

1. Open Hytale and go to Multiplayer.
2. Choose Direct Connect (or Add server, depending on your version).
3. Enter the right address:

4. Click Connect, and you’ll load into your server’s world.

To shut the server down safely, type /stop in the console.

Troubleshooting

• Friends can’t connect: Confirm that UDP 5520 is forwarded (not TCP), that your firewall allows it, and that the server is running and authenticated.
• “Java not found” or the wrong version: Run java --version and install Java 25 if you see an older number.
• Server window closes instantly: Check that HytaleServer.jar and Assets.zip are in the same folder you’re running the command from.
• Authentication code expired: Run /auth login device again and enter the new code quickly.
• Works on your PC but not for friends: Your router may not be forwarding the port, or your internet provider may be blocking it. Test with a friend after checking your public IP address.
• Lag or rubber-banding: Lower the view distance, free up memory on your PC, or consider a hosted server.

Self-Hosting vs. Hosting With AleForge

Self-hosting is a great way to learn and works well for a few friends who play at the same time. If you want a world that’s always ready, a hosted server saves you time and trouble.

Frequently Asked Questions

What do I need to host a Hytale dedicated server?

A valid Hytale account, Java 25 or newer, the server files (HytaleServer.jar and Assets.zip), and a forwarded UDP port 5520 if friends join over the internet.

What port does Hytale use?

UDP port 5520 by default. Don’t forward TCP.

Do I need to leave my PC on?

Yes, if you self-host. The world is only online while the server program is running. A hosted server like AleForge stays online around the clock.

How do I authenticate my server?

Type /auth login device in the server console, then follow the link and enter the code with your Hytale account.

How much RAM does a Hytale server need?

There are no official requirements yet. Many guides suggest about 4 GB for a few friends, and more for bigger groups.

Can I add mods?

Yes. Mods go in the server’s mods folder, and you restart the server afterwards. Check compatibility after each Early Access update.

Is it easier to rent a server?

Yes. With AleForge Hytale hosting, there’s no Java to install, no port forwarding and no PC to keep running.

Ready to Play?

Whether you set up your own server or let AleForge do it for you, you’ll soon be exploring Hytale’s worlds with your friends. If you want the fastest route, a hosted server is ready in minutes.

Start your Hytale server at aleforge.net →