Gamer Hosting: Useful Software KiwamiServer Setup Guide for [Space Engineers (creative builds)] Gamers
Game Server Requirements
Embarking on the grand endeavor of hosting a Space Engineers server, particularly one dedicated to the boundless possibilities of creative builds, necessitates a thorough understanding of the underlying hardware and software demands. Unlike survival-oriented servers, which often prioritize player count and basic physics, creative servers frequently contend with an exponentially greater number of complex entities, intricate grid structures, and dynamic simulations. This distinction profoundly impacts the requisite server specifications.
At the core of any robust Space Engineers server lies the Central Processing Unit (CPU). The game engine, particularly in its handling of physics calculations and object interactions, exhibits a strong preference for high single-core performance rather than an abundance of lower-clocked cores. While multi-core processors are ubiquitous, Space Engineers may not fully leverage every available core for its primary simulation loop. Therefore, a CPU with a high base clock speed and excellent single-thread performance, such as those found in Intel's i7 or i9 series, or AMD's Ryzen 7 or 9 series, is paramount. Consider processors with clock speeds exceeding 3.5 GHz, with turbo boost capabilities pushing beyond 4.5 GHz, to ensure smooth operation even with sprawling, complex creations. The cache size of the CPU also plays a non-trivial role, as larger caches can reduce latency in data access, which is beneficial for the rapid processing of game state information.
Memory, or Random Access Memory (RAM), is another critical component. Space Engineers can be a memory-intensive application, especially when dealing with numerous large grids, intricate conveyor systems, and extensive voxel modifications. For a creative server, a minimum of 16 GB of RAM is advisable, with 32 GB or even 64 GB being highly recommended for servers intended to host truly colossal builds or a moderate number of concurrent players. The speed of the RAM, measured in MHz, also contributes to overall performance; DDR4 or DDR5 memory with higher clock speeds (e.g., 3200 MHz or faster) will facilitate quicker data retrieval and processing. It is crucial to remember that the operating system and any background processes will also consume a portion of the available RAM, so allocating sufficient overhead is prudent.
Storage solutions directly impact server responsiveness and world loading times. Solid State Drives (SSDs) are no longer a luxury but a necessity for Space Engineers servers. Traditional Hard Disk Drives (HDDs) simply cannot provide the input/output operations per second (IOPS) required for rapidly loading and saving large world files, or for quickly accessing numerous small game assets. NVMe SSDs, which connect directly to the PCIe bus, offer significantly faster read/write speeds compared to SATA SSDs, providing the most optimal performance for game world data. While the total storage capacity required might not be immense for a single world, allocating at least 250 GB for the operating system and game files, with additional space for backups and multiple world saves, is a sensible approach.
Network connectivity is the final pillar of a stable server. A high-speed, low-latency internet connection is indispensable. For a server hosting creative builds, where players might be constantly uploading and downloading large amounts of structural data, a symmetrical connection (equal upload and download speeds) is highly advantageous. A minimum upload speed of 50 Mbps is recommended, with 100 Mbps or higher being ideal, especially if multiple players are expected to be active simultaneously. Low latency, often measured by ping, ensures a responsive gameplay experience, minimizing delays between player actions and server responses. Ethernet connections are always preferred over Wi-Fi for server stability and performance.
Beyond the core hardware, the operating system (OS) plays a role. While Space Engineers can run on various Linux distributions via Proton or Wine, Windows Server editions are generally the most straightforward and officially supported for dedicated server deployments. These operating systems offer robust performance and extensive compatibility with the game's server software. Regular updates and security patches for the chosen OS are vital for maintaining server integrity and performance.
In summary, a Space Engineers creative build server demands a potent CPU with high single-core performance, ample and fast RAM, NVMe SSD storage, and a robust, low-latency internet connection. These specifications form the bedrock upon which magnificent virtual structures can be erected without the frustration of lag or instability.
Beginner's Guide
Embarking on the journey of hosting your own Space Engineers server for creative builds can seem daunting, but with a structured approach, it becomes an accessible and rewarding endeavor. This guide will illuminate the initial steps, from understanding server types to the fundamental configuration, ensuring a smooth liftoff for your creative sanctuary.
The very first decision involves choosing between a self-hosted server and a rented server from a dedicated hosting provider. Self-hosting, where you run the server on your own hardware, offers maximum control and can be cost-effective if you already possess suitable equipment. However, it demands technical proficiency, a stable internet connection, and the commitment to manage hardware, software updates, and potential network issues. Conversely, renting a server from a specialized provider offloads much of the technical burden. These services typically offer optimized hardware, managed environments, and dedicated support, allowing you to focus solely on your creative projects. The trade-off is a recurring subscription cost. For beginners, especially those prioritizing ease of use and reliability, a rented server is often the more pragmatic choice.
Once the server type is determined, the next crucial step is the installation of the Space Engineers dedicated server software. If you opt for a hosting provider, they will typically pre-install the software or provide a user-friendly control panel for one-click installation. For self-hosting, the process involves downloading the dedicated server tools via SteamCMD, a command-line version of the Steam client. This tool allows you to download and update game servers without needing the full Steam client installed. The command steamcmd +login anonymous +force_install_dir C:\SE_Server +app_update 298740 validate +quit will download the necessary files to your specified directory.
After installation, the core of your server's identity and behavior is defined within its configuration files. The primary file is SpaceEngineers-Dedicated.cfg, usually located in the server's instance folder. This XML-formatted file contains a myriad of settings that dictate everything from the server name and message of the day to world generation parameters and administrative privileges. Key parameters to configure include:
Server Name: This is how your server will appear in the in-game server browser. Choose something descriptive and inviting.
World Name: The name of your saved game world.
Max Players: For creative builds, you might not need a large player count, but consider how many collaborators you anticipate.
Game Mode: Set this to "Creative" to enable unlimited resources and instant building.
Admin IDs: Crucially, add your Steam 64-bit ID to the
Port: The default port for Space Engineers is 27016 UDP. Ensure this port is open in your server's firewall and, if self-hosting, port-forwarded on your router.
World generation settings are particularly important for creative servers. You can choose from various pre-defined scenarios or create a completely empty world, a popular choice for creative builders who prefer a blank canvas. Parameters such as asteroid density, planet count, and even the presence of hostile NPCs can be adjusted. For a purely creative environment, disabling hostile elements often enhances the building experience.
Starting the server is typically done via a batch file (.bat) for self-hosted setups or through the hosting provider's control panel. A simple batch file might contain: SpaceEngineersDedicated.exe -console -ignorelastsession. The -console argument keeps the server console visible, allowing you to monitor its output, while -ignorelastsession ensures it starts fresh rather than attempting to load a potentially corrupted previous state.
Once the server is running, you can connect to it from your Space Engineers game client by navigating to "Join Game," then "Direct Connect," and entering your server's IP address and port (e.g., 123.45.67.89:27016). If you've configured the server name, it should also appear in the "Custom Games" list.
For beginners, it is highly recommended to start with a small, private server to familiarize yourself with the configuration and management processes. Experiment with different settings, invite a trusted friend, and gradually expand as your confidence grows. The initial setup might involve a few trial-and-error moments, but the reward of a personalized creative playground is well worth the effort.
Hosting Service Comparison and Recommendations
Selecting the optimal hosting service for your Space Engineers creative build server is a pivotal decision that directly impacts performance, reliability, and your overall experience. The market is replete with providers, each offering a distinct blend of features, pricing structures, and support levels. A discerning comparison, focusing on the unique demands of creative Space Engineers gameplay, is essential.
When evaluating hosting providers, several key metrics rise to prominence. Foremost among these is hardware specifications. As previously discussed, Space Engineers thrives on high single-core CPU performance and ample, fast RAM. Providers that explicitly detail their CPU models (e.g., Intel i9-13900K, AMD Ryzen 9 7950X) and RAM speeds (e.g., DDR5 5600MHz) are generally more transparent and confident in their offerings. Avoid providers that are vague about hardware, as this often indicates older or less powerful infrastructure. The presence of NVMe SSDs for storage is non-negotiable for optimal world loading and saving times.
Network infrastructure is another critical differentiator. Look for providers with data centers geographically close to your intended player base to minimize latency. A robust network with high bandwidth guarantees and DDoS protection is vital for maintaining a stable connection, especially during peak usage. Some providers offer dedicated IP addresses, which can simplify direct connections and firewall configurations.
Control panel functionality significantly influences ease of management. A user-friendly control panel, such as TCAdmin or a custom-built solution, should allow for easy server restarts, configuration file editing, mod installation, and backup management. Features like automated backups are particularly valuable for creative servers, safeguarding your intricate builds against unforeseen issues. The ability to easily access server logs for troubleshooting is also a significant advantage.
Customer support is often overlooked until a problem arises, but it is paramount. For a game like Space Engineers, which can have complex server-side issues, responsive and knowledgeable support is invaluable. Look for providers offering 24/7 support via multiple channels (live chat, tickets, phone) and with a reputation for quick resolution times. Reviews and testimonials can offer insights into a provider's support quality.
Pricing models vary widely. Some providers offer fixed monthly rates, while others use a tiered system based on RAM, CPU cores, or player slots. For creative servers, where player count might be lower but resource usage per player is higher due to complex builds, a focus on raw hardware power rather than just player slots is more appropriate. Be wary of excessively cheap options, as they often compromise on hardware quality or support.
Considering these criteria, here are some general recommendations and types of providers to consider:
High-Performance Niche Providers: These providers often specialize in game hosting and explicitly advertise high-end CPUs and NVMe storage. They might be slightly more expensive but deliver superior performance for demanding games like Space Engineers. Examples often include providers known for their strong CPU offerings.
Established Game Hosting Companies: Larger, more generalized game hosting companies often have extensive infrastructure and robust support. While their default configurations might not always be optimized for Space Engineers' specific CPU demands, they usually offer configurable plans where you can upgrade CPU priority or core allocation.
Virtual Private Servers (VPS) / Dedicated Servers: For advanced users with technical expertise, renting a VPS or a full dedicated server offers the ultimate control and customization. You are responsible for installing the OS, game server, and all configurations, but you gain complete access to the hardware resources. This option can be more cost-effective for very high-end requirements if you possess the necessary administrative skills.
When making your final selection, it is prudent to:
Read recent reviews: Focus on reviews from Space Engineers players specifically, as their experiences will be most relevant.
Check for Space Engineers-specific features: Some providers offer pre-configured Space Engineers templates or mod managers, simplifying setup.
Test latency: If possible, use tools to ping the data center locations of prospective providers to gauge potential latency.
Consider a trial period: Some providers offer short trial periods or money-back guarantees, allowing you to test the service before committing long-term.
Ultimately, the "best" hosting service is subjective and depends on your budget, technical comfort level, and specific performance expectations for your creative Space Engineers server. A thorough investigation based on these guidelines will empower you to make an informed decision.
Troubleshooting
Even the most meticulously configured Space Engineers creative build server can encounter unexpected issues. Effective troubleshooting is a systematic process of identifying, diagnosing, and resolving these problems, ensuring your creative endeavors remain uninterrupted. This section outlines common server issues and provides actionable steps for their resolution.
One of the most frequent problems is the server failing to start or crashing shortly after launch. The first point of investigation should always be the server logs. These logs, typically found in a Logs folder within your server's instance directory, provide invaluable diagnostic information. Look for error messages, stack traces, or critical warnings that pinpoint the exact cause. Common culprits include:
Corrupted World Save: A sudden server shutdown or power loss can corrupt the world file. Try restoring a recent backup of your world. Most hosting providers offer automated backup solutions, or you should manually back up your Saves folder regularly.
Mod Conflicts or Outdated Mods: If you are using mods, an incompatible or outdated mod can cause crashes. Temporarily remove all mods and attempt to start the server. If it starts, reintroduce mods one by one to identify the culprit. Ensure all mods are updated to the latest version compatible with your server's Space Engineers build.
Insufficient Resources: While less common if you followed the requirements, a server might crash due to running out of RAM or CPU cycles, especially if a particularly complex build is loaded. Monitor resource usage (CPU, RAM) via your hosting provider's panel or your OS's task manager.
Configuration Errors: A typo or incorrect value in the SpaceEngineers-Dedicated.cfg file can prevent the server from starting. Use an XML validator if unsure, or compare your configuration to a known working default.
Players unable to connect to the server is another common issue. This often points to networking problems:
Firewall Restrictions: Ensure that the Space Engineers server port (default 27016 UDP) is open in your server's operating system firewall. If self-hosting, this port also needs to be forwarded on your router to the server's internal IP address.
Incorrect IP Address/Port: Double-check that players are using the correct public IP address and port for your server. If you are using a domain name, ensure it resolves correctly to your server's IP.
Server Not Running: Verify that the server application is actively running and not stuck in a crashed state.
Antivirus/Security Software: Occasionally, overly aggressive antivirus or security software on the server machine can block network traffic. Temporarily disable it for testing purposes, but re-enable it with proper exceptions if it's the cause.
Severe lag or performance degradation on a creative server, even with adequate hardware, can be frustrating. This often stems from in-game factors:
Excessive Grids/Entities: Space Engineers performance can degrade with an extremely high number of individual grids, especially if they are complex or have many interactive components (e.g., pistons, rotors, subgrids). Encourage players to merge grids where possible and avoid unnecessary complexity.
Floating Objects/Debris: Over time, abandoned ships, loose components, or excessive debris can accumulate and consume server resources. Regularly use administrative commands (e.g., /cleanup) or server-side tools to remove unowned or derelict objects.
Voxel Modifications: Extensive terraforming or large-scale voxel destruction can impact performance. While creative servers often embrace this, be mindful of its potential impact.
Physics Calculations: Complex interactions between grids, especially those involving many subgrids or dynamic elements, can be CPU-intensive.
Network Congestion: While less common for creative servers with fewer players, a sudden spike in network traffic or issues with your ISP can cause lag. Monitor network usage.
When troubleshooting, adopt a methodical approach:
Isolate the Problem: Determine if the issue is affecting all players or just one, and if it's constant or intermittent.
Check Recent Changes: Did you install a new mod, change a configuration setting, or update the game just before the problem started? Revert the last change to see if it resolves the issue.
Consult Logs: Always review server logs for error messages.
Test Systematically: Change one variable at a time and retest.
Utilize Community Resources: The Space Engineers community forums, wikis, and Discord channels are excellent resources for finding solutions to common problems.
Contact Support: If using a hosting provider, leverage their technical support. Provide them with detailed information, including log files and steps taken.
By approaching troubleshooting with patience and a systematic methodology, you can effectively diagnose and resolve most server-related issues, ensuring a stable and enjoyable creative environment for all.
Performance Optimization Tips
Optimizing the performance of a Space Engineers creative build server is an ongoing process, crucial for maintaining a smooth and responsive environment as players construct increasingly elaborate creations. While robust hardware forms the foundation, intelligent server configuration and in-game management practices can significantly enhance the experience, mitigating lag and improving stability.
One of the most impactful areas for optimization lies within the server configuration file (SpaceEngineers-Dedicated.cfg). Several parameters can be tweaked to balance performance with creative freedom:
ViewDistance and SyncDistance: Reducing these values can significantly lessen the load on both the server CPU and network bandwidth. While a lower view distance might slightly limit visual scope, it can dramatically improve performance, especially with many complex grids. Experiment to find a balance that suits your players.
MaxGridSize and MaxBlocksPerPlayer: While creative servers often aim for unlimited potential, imposing reasonable limits on individual grid sizes or the total number of blocks a player can own can prevent single, excessively large creations from crippling the server. This is a delicate balance, as it can restrict creative freedom, but it's a powerful tool for preventing extreme lag spikes.
BlockLimitsEnabled: Setting this to true allows you to enforce block limits per player or per grid, which can be a performance safeguard.
EnableSpectator: Disabling spectator mode can free up minor resources if not actively used.
VoxelGeneratorVersion: While not directly a performance setting, using a simpler voxel generator can result in less complex terrain, which might slightly reduce the load on the server when processing voxel interactions.
In-game management and administrative tools are indispensable for ongoing optimization:
Regular Cleanup Scripts/Commands: Space Engineers servers can accumulate vast amounts of debris, abandoned ships, and unowned grids over time. Utilize server-side cleanup tools or administrative commands (e.g., /cleanup or /delete with filters) to periodically remove these performance hogs. Many hosting providers offer automated cleanup schedules.
Mod Management: While mods enhance gameplay, they can also introduce performance overhead. Carefully vet mods for their impact on server performance. Prioritize well-optimized mods and avoid those known to be resource-intensive. Regularly review your mod list and remove any that are no longer necessary or are causing issues.
Encourage Best Building Practices: Educate your players on performance-friendly building techniques. This includes:
Merging Grids: Encourage players to merge subgrids (e.g., pistons, rotors, connectors) into their main grid when not actively needed, as each separate grid adds to the server's processing load.
Minimizing Physics Interactions: Excessive use of complex physics objects (many pistons, rotors, advanced rotors, hinges) in close proximity or in large numbers can be a significant performance drain.
Avoiding "Lag Machines": Some designs, often unintentionally, can create extreme physics calculations (e.g., rapidly spinning rotors colliding with objects). Administrators should identify and address these.
Optimizing Conveyor Systems: While essential, overly complex or inefficient conveyor networks can add to the server's burden.
World Backups and Optimization: Regularly back up your world saves. Some server management tools offer "world optimization" features that can compact world files and remove redundant data, potentially improving loading times and reducing file size.
Server software and operating system maintenance also contribute to sustained performance:
Keep Server Software Updated: Ensure your Space Engineers dedicated server software is always running the latest version. Keen Software House frequently releases performance improvements and bug fixes.
Operating System Optimization: If self-hosting, ensure your operating system is lean. Disable unnecessary background services, scheduled tasks, and visual effects. Keep OS drivers (especially network drivers) updated.
Resource Monitoring: Continuously monitor your server's CPU, RAM, and disk I/O usage. This data provides insights into bottlenecks and helps you identify when hardware upgrades might be necessary or when specific in-game events are causing performance spikes. Tools like htop (Linux) or Task Manager/Resource Monitor (Windows) are invaluable.
Network Optimization: Ensure your server's network connection is stable and has sufficient bandwidth. Prioritize server traffic if possible, though this is more relevant for self-hosted environments with shared internet connections.
By diligently applying these optimization strategies, you can transform a potentially laggy creative server into a smooth, responsive canvas where players can freely express their engineering prowess without the frustration of performance bottlenecks. It's a continuous effort, but one that pays dividends in player satisfaction and server longevity.
Technical Q&A
This section addresses common technical questions that arise during the setup and management of a Space Engineers creative build server, providing concise and authoritative answers.
Q1: What is the significance of single-core CPU performance for a Space Engineers server?
A1: The Space Engineers game engine, particularly its core simulation loop responsible for physics calculations, object interactions, and grid updates, is predominantly single-threaded. This means that a significant portion of the server's workload relies heavily on the processing power of a single CPU core. Therefore, a CPU with a high base clock speed and excellent single-thread performance (e.g., high IPC - Instructions Per Cycle) will outperform a CPU with many cores but lower individual core speeds, even if the latter has a higher aggregate core count. This is a critical distinction for optimal server responsiveness.
Q2: How do I add myself as an administrator to my Space Engineers server?
A2: To add yourself as an administrator, you need to locate your Steam 64-bit ID. This can be found using various online tools by entering your Steam profile URL. Once you have your Steam 64-bit ID, open your server's SpaceEngineers-Dedicated.cfg file. Within this XML file, locate the
Q3: My server is experiencing severe lag, but my hardware seems sufficient. What could be the cause?
A3: Even with powerful hardware, severe lag on a Space Engineers creative server often stems from in-game factors related to the complexity of player builds and the sheer number of entities. Common culprits include: * Excessive Grids and Subgrids: Each separate grid, especially those connected by pistons, rotors, or hinges, adds to the server's physics calculations. A multitude of unmerged subgrids can quickly overwhelm the CPU. * Floating Objects and Debris: Over time, abandoned ships, loose components, and debris accumulate, consuming server resources. * Complex Voxel Modifications: Extensive terraforming or large-scale destruction can impact performance. * "Lag Machines": Unintentional or intentional designs that create rapid, complex physics interactions (e.g., rapidly spinning rotors colliding with static objects). * Mod Overheads: Some mods, particularly those poorly optimized or with frequent script executions, can introduce significant performance drains. Regular cleanup, encouraging efficient building practices, and careful mod selection are crucial for mitigating such lag.
Q4: What is port forwarding, and why is it necessary for self-hosting a Space Engineers server?
A4: Port forwarding is a network configuration technique that directs incoming network traffic from a specific port on your router to a specific internal IP address and port on a device within your local network ( Networking for Dummies ). For self-hosting a Space Engineers server, it is necessary because your router acts as a firewall, blocking unsolicited incoming connections from the internet. To allow external players to connect to your server, you must configure your router to forward incoming UDP traffic on port 27016 (the default Space Engineers server port) to the internal IP address of the computer hosting your server. Without proper port forwarding, external players will be unable to establish a connection.
Q5: How often should I back up my Space Engineers server world?
A5: For a creative build server, where players invest significant time and effort into their creations, frequent backups are paramount. It is highly recommended to implement daily automated backups at a minimum. If your server experiences frequent changes or has many active builders, consider more frequent backups, such as every 6-12 hours. Many hosting providers offer automated backup solutions. If self-hosting, you should script regular copies of your server's Saves folder to a separate storage location. This ensures that in the event of world corruption, hardware failure, or accidental deletion, you can quickly restore your server to a recent, stable state, minimizing data loss and player frustration.
Q6: Can I run a Space Engineers server on a Linux machine?
A6: Officially, the Space Engineers dedicated server is designed for Windows environments. However, it is possible to run it on Linux using compatibility layers like Proton or Wine ( Linux System Programming: Talking Directly to the Kernel and C Library ). This typically involves using SteamCMD to download the server files and then configuring Wine/Proton to execute the Windows executable. While this can work, it often requires more technical expertise to set up and troubleshoot compared to a native Windows deployment. Performance might also vary, and some specific features or mods might not function correctly. For ease of use and official support, Windows Server remains the recommended operating system for Space Engineers dedicated servers.
Q7: What is the difference between ViewDistance and SyncDistance in the server configuration?
A7: Both ViewDistance and SyncDistance relate to how much of the game world the server processes and sends to clients, but they serve slightly different purposes: * ViewDistance: This primarily controls the visual range for players. It dictates how far objects (grids, asteroids, planets) are rendered on the client side. A higher ViewDistance means more objects are rendered, increasing the load on both the client's GPU and the server's network bandwidth as it sends more data. * SyncDistance: This is more critical for server performance. It defines the radius around a player within which the server actively synchronizes physics, block states, and other dynamic game logic. Objects outside this distance are generally not actively simulated or updated for that player. A larger SyncDistance means the server has to process and synchronize more active entities, significantly increasing CPU load. For creative servers, reducing SyncDistance can have a more profound positive impact on server CPU performance than reducing ViewDistance, as it directly lessens the amount of active simulation the server must perform.
Q8: How can I prevent griefing or unwanted modifications on my creative server?
A8: Preventing griefing on a creative server requires a combination of administrative tools and community management: * Admin Privileges: As an administrator, you have access to commands like /kick, /ban, /delete (to remove problematic grids), and /respawn (to reset player positions). * Whitelisting: For private creative servers, implementing a whitelist (allowing only specific Steam IDs to join) is the most effective way to control who can access your server. * Regular Monitoring: Actively monitor player activity, especially in public or semi-public servers. * Community Rules: Establish clear rules of conduct and communicate them to your players. * Backup Restoration: In the event of significant griefing, having recent world backups allows you to revert the server to a pre-grief state. * Modded Anti-Griefing Tools: Some community-developed mods offer advanced anti-griefing features, such as block logging or area protection, though these require careful selection and configuration.
Q9: Is it better to have more RAM or a faster CPU for a Space Engineers creative server?
A9: Both RAM and CPU are crucial, but for Space Engineers, a faster CPU (specifically, high single-core performance) is generally more impactful than simply having more RAM, assuming you already meet the minimum RAM requirements. While ample RAM (16-32GB for creative servers) is necessary to prevent swapping to disk (which causes severe lag), once that threshold is met, the game's primary bottleneck often shifts to the CPU's ability to process complex physics and game logic. A CPU with a high clock speed and strong IPC will directly improve the server's ability to handle numerous grids and dynamic interactions, leading to a smoother experience. Insufficient RAM will cause immediate and severe performance issues, but beyond that, CPU power dictates the upper limit of complexity the server can handle.
Q10: What are the benefits of using an NVMe SSD over a SATA SSD for server storage?
A10: NVMe (Non-Volatile Memory Express) SSDs offer significant performance advantages over SATA (Serial Advanced Technology Attachment) SSDs, particularly for server applications like Space Engineers: * Higher Throughput: NVMe drives connect directly to the PCIe bus, offering much higher bandwidth than SATA, which is limited by the SATA 3.0 standard (around 600 MB/s). NVMe drives can achieve sequential read/write speeds of several gigabytes per second. * Lower Latency: The NVMe protocol is designed for flash memory, reducing the command overhead and latency compared to the older AHCI protocol used by SATA drives. * Increased IOPS: NVMe drives can handle a significantly higher number of input/output operations per second (IOPS), which is crucial for rapidly loading numerous small game assets, saving large world files, and handling concurrent data requests from multiple players. For a Space Engineers server, this translates to much faster world loading times, quicker saving operations, and a more responsive overall experience, especially when dealing with large and complex creative worlds.