Server Setup

Host your own Hytale server for multiplayer with friends or a public community. This guide covers everything from basic setup to advanced configuration.

Requirements

RequirementMinimumRecommended
RAM4 GB8+ GB
JavaJava 25Java 25 (Adoptium)
Architecturex64 or arm64x64
NetworkUDP port 5520UDP port 5520

Installation

Install Java 25

Download from adoptium.net. Pick the latest Java 25 for your OS.

Download Server Files

Get HytaleServer.jar and Assets.zip from the official source.

Create Server Folder

Make a new folder and put the files inside.

Start the Server
java -jar HytaleServer.jar --assets Assets.zip

Faster Boot with AOT Cache

The server includes an AOT cache for faster startup:

Terminal 
java -XX:AOTCache=HytaleServer.aot -jar HytaleServer.jar --assets Assets.zip

Server Folder Structure

server/
HytaleServer.jar
HytaleServer.aot
Assets.zip
config.json
permissions.json
bans.json
whitelist.json
.cache/
mods/
earlyplugins/
logs/
universe/
worlds/

Networking

Protocol: QUIC over UDP

Hytale uses QUIC (not TCP). This means:

  • Port 5520 UDP by default
  • You must forward UDP, not TCP
  • Lower latency than traditional protocols
  • Better packet loss handling
Important

TCP port forwarding will NOT work. You must forward UDP port 5520 in your router settings.

Port Forwarding

  1. Log into your router (usually 192.168.1.1)
  2. Find "Port Forwarding" settings
  3. Add a new rule: UDP 5520 → Your server's local IP
  4. Save and restart router if needed

Authentication

Server authentication details:

  • Servers require authentication for service APIs
  • Limit: 100 servers per Hytale license
  • Protocol hash verification ensures client-server compatibility
  • Players auto-download required assets when joining (no manual mod installation)

Launch Arguments

ArgumentDescription
--assets <path>Path to assets zip file (required)
--bind <port>Custom port (default 5520)
--disable-sentryDisable crash reporting (useful for development)
--early-plugins <path>Custom path for bootstrap plugins

Configuration

config.json

Main server settings:

config.json 
{
    "serverName": "My Hytale Server",
    "maxPlayers": 20,
    "viewDistance": 12,
    "gameMode": "survival",
    "difficulty": "normal",
    "pvp": true,
    "port": 5520
}

permissions.json

Player permissions and groups:

permissions.json 
{
    "groups": {
        "admin": {
            "permissions": ["*"],
            "prefix": "[Admin]"
        },
        "moderator": {
            "permissions": ["kick", "mute", "tp"],
            "prefix": "[Mod]"
        }
    },
    "players": {
        "player-uuid-here": {
            "group": "admin"
        }
    }
}

Installing Mods

Download Mods

Get .zip or .jar files from CurseForge or other sources.

Copy to mods/

Put the files in your server's mods/ folder.

Restart Server

Stop and start the server to load new mods.

Server-Side Mods

Remember: all mods run server-side. Players don't need to download anything to join your modded server!

Essential Commands

CommandWhat It Does
/op <player>Give operator status
/deop <player>Remove operator status
/kick <player>Kick a player
/ban <player>Ban a player
/whitelist add <player>Add to whitelist
/gamemode <mode>Change game mode
/tp <player> <x> <y> <z>Teleport player
/stopStop the server

Performance Tips

  • Limit view distance to 12 chunks max
  • Start with 8GB RAM for public servers
  • Use a VPS or dedicated server for best performance
  • Monitor memory usage during peak times
  • Large mods increase resource requirements

Hosting Options

Self-Hosting

Run on your own computer or home server. Best for:

  • Small private games with friends
  • Testing and development
  • Learning server administration

VPS / Cloud Hosting

Rent a virtual server. Best for:

  • Public communities
  • 24/7 uptime
  • Better performance

Game Hosting Providers

Specialized Hytale hosting with easy setup:

  • Shockbyte
  • BisectHosting
  • Apex Hosting
  • Sparked Host

Resources