Server Setup & Administration

Learn how to set up, configure, and manage a Hytale server.

Overview

Hytale servers run on Java and can be hosted on various platforms. The server JAR is available at launch, with source code to be released 1-2 months after Early Access.

Server Requirements

Based on community testing and hosting provider information:

Minimum Requirements

• CPU: Multi-core processor (4+ cores recommended)
• RAM: 4GB minimum, 8GB+ recommended
• Storage: SSD recommended for world data
• Network: Stable connection with port 5520 open

Performance Notes from Community

Real-world testing revealed:

• ~12GB RAM for 70 players (community report)
• 4 players exploring in different directions can strain 8GB servers
• Nitrado achieved 1.8GB idle with aggressive garbage collection
• Performance heavily depends on world generation and player activity

Server Architecture

Key technical details from Discord discussions:

• Multi-threading: Each world runs on its own thread
• Tick Rate: 30 TPS (vs Minecraft’s 20 TPS)
• Modular Design: 70+ modules that can be disabled for performance
• Config Location: config.json in world folders

Quick Start

1. Download the Hytale server JAR
2. Run: java -jar hytale-server.jar
3. Configure config.json
4. Open port 5520
5. Start accepting connections

Sections

• Installation - Download and first run
• Configuration - Server settings
• Port Forwarding - Network setup
• Networking & Transfer Packets - Multi-server architecture & DDoS protection
• Hosting Providers - Recommended hosts
• Performance Tuning - Optimization tips

No Proxy Required

Hytale introduces transfer packets - a revolutionary feature that eliminates the need for proxy servers like BungeeCord or Velocity:

“We have a transfer packet with a 4KB payload which will allow you to add data when switching over to another server. There will be no need for BungeeCord-like proxies.” - Slikey (Tech Director)

This means:

• Simpler infrastructure - No proxy servers to maintain
• Lower costs - Fewer servers needed
• Direct connections - Less latency
• Built-in state transfer - 4KB payload per transfer

Learn more in Networking & Transfer Packets.

Platform Support

• Windows: Full support
• Linux: Supported (Flatpak available)
• macOS: Delayed due to Apple code signing requirements
• FreeBSD: Community discussion, unofficial support

Server Types

Dedicated Server

Run the server JAR on a dedicated machine or VPS for best performance.

Home Hosting

Host on your personal computer - requires port forwarding and good internet connection.

Managed Hosting

Use a hosting provider that manages the infrastructure for you.

Community Wisdom

“Pre-generate your worlds before opening to players - exploration is the biggest RAM consumer.” - Performance testing insights

“Each world is on its own thread, so multi-world servers benefit from multi-core CPUs.” - Architecture discussion

“Don’t rely on UPnP - manually configure port forwarding for reliability.” - Networking advice

Next Steps

Start with Installation to get your server running, then move on to Configuration and Performance Tuning.