Server Setup Guide for [Hydroneer] Gamers

Game Server Requirements

Embarking on a multiplayer Hydroneer journey necessitates a robust understanding of the underlying server infrastructure. The demands placed upon a server are multifaceted, encompassing processing power, memory allocation, storage speed, and network bandwidth. These elements collectively dictate the fluidity and responsiveness of the gameplay experience for all participants.

At its core, a Hydroneer server, like many contemporary game servers, operates as a dedicated application that processes game logic, synchronizes player actions, and manages the persistent game world state. Unlike client-side gaming, where a single machine handles rendering and logic for one player, a server must simultaneously manage these operations for multiple connected clients. This distinction is crucial when evaluating hardware specifications.

The central processing unit (CPU) is arguably the most critical component. Hydroneer, while not as graphically intensive as some AAA titles, still benefits significantly from a CPU with strong single-core performance. Many game server architectures, including those built on engines like Unity (which Hydroneer utilizes), often rely heavily on a single thread for core game loop operations. Therefore, a CPU with fewer, faster cores can sometimes outperform one with numerous, slower cores for this specific workload. Intel's i5 or i7 series (8th generation or newer) or AMD's Ryzen 5 or 7 series (2nd generation or newer) are generally considered suitable starting points. For larger player counts or more complex game worlds with extensive automation and physics calculations, an i7/Ryzen 7 or even a server-grade Xeon/EPYC processor with higher clock speeds would be advantageous. The clock speed, measured in gigahertz (GHz), directly correlates with the number of instructions a CPU can execute per second, impacting the server's ability to process game ticks efficiently.

Random Access Memory (RAM) serves as the server's short-term memory, storing active game data, player inventories, world chunks, and server-side scripts. Insufficient RAM leads to constant data swapping between RAM and slower storage, resulting in noticeable lag and stuttering. For a small Hydroneer server catering to 2-4 players, a minimum of 8 GB of RAM is advisable. As the player count increases, or if players construct elaborate mining operations with numerous machines and complex water systems, 16 GB becomes a more comfortable baseline. For larger communities or servers intended for long-term, persistent worlds with significant player-built structures, 32 GB or even 64 GB of RAM can prevent performance bottlenecks. The type of RAM also plays a role; DDR4 is the current standard, offering higher speeds and efficiency compared to older DDR3 modules.

Storage speed is often overlooked but profoundly impacts server responsiveness, particularly during world loading, chunk generation, and saving operations. Traditional Hard Disk Drives (HDDs) with their spinning platters are significantly slower than Solid State Drives (SSDs). For a Hydroneer server, an SSD is not merely a recommendation but a near-essential component. A SATA SSD offers a substantial improvement over an HDD, while an NVMe SSD provides even greater speeds, leveraging the PCIe bus for direct communication with the CPU. The difference in load times and overall world interaction can be dramatic. A minimum of 100 GB of storage is typically sufficient for the game files and world data, though allocating more for future expansion and backups is prudent.

Network bandwidth and latency are critical for a smooth multiplayer experience. Bandwidth refers to the maximum rate of data transfer across a network, typically measured in megabits per second (Mbps). Latency, or ping, is the time delay for a small packet of data to travel from one point to another and back, measured in milliseconds (ms). For a Hydroneer server, a stable internet connection with at least 100 Mbps symmetrical (upload and download) bandwidth is recommended for a moderate number of players. Higher bandwidth, especially for upload, becomes more important as player count increases, as the server needs to send game state updates to all connected clients. Low latency is paramount; a server located geographically closer to its player base will generally offer a better experience. High latency manifests as rubber-banding, delayed actions, and desynchronization between players. Dedicated server hosting providers typically offer robust network infrastructure with high bandwidth and low latency connections to major internet backbones.

Finally, the operating system (OS) choice is also a consideration. While Hydroneer servers can run on Windows or Linux, Linux distributions like Ubuntu Server or Debian are often preferred in professional hosting environments due to their lower resource overhead, enhanced security, and greater stability. However, for users more comfortable with a graphical interface, Windows Server editions offer a familiar environment. The choice often comes down to administrative preference and technical expertise.

In summary, a well-configured Hydroneer server balances these components to deliver a seamless experience. Prioritizing a strong CPU, ample fast RAM, SSD storage, and a robust network connection will lay the foundation for countless hours of enjoyable multiplayer digging.

Beginner's Guide

Setting up your first Hydroneer server might seem daunting, but with a structured approach, it's an achievable endeavor. This guide will walk you through the fundamental steps, from initial setup to getting your friends connected. The goal is to demystify the process, making it accessible even for those new to server administration.

The very first decision you'll face is whether to host the server yourself on a personal computer or to utilize a dedicated hosting service. Self-hosting, while seemingly cost-effective, comes with significant caveats. It requires a powerful computer that remains on 24/7, a stable internet connection with sufficient upload speed, and a degree of technical proficiency to configure port forwarding on your router and manage network security. Furthermore, your home internet connection might not offer the low latency and consistent uptime that a professional data center provides. For most users, especially those seeking reliability and ease of management, a dedicated hosting service is the superior choice. This guide will primarily focus on the process assuming a hosting service is used, as it represents the most common and recommended path for a smooth experience.

Once you've selected a hosting provider (more on this in the next section), you'll typically be presented with a control panel, often a web-based interface like cPanel, Pterodactyl, or a custom solution. This control panel is your primary interface for managing the server. The first step is usually to select the game you wish to host. Most reputable providers will have Hydroneer listed as a one-click install option. If not, you may need to manually upload the server files.

To manually set up, you'll need to download the Hydroneer dedicated server files. These are typically available through SteamCMD, a command-line version of the Steam client. You would install SteamCMD on your server (or local machine if preparing files for upload), log in anonymously, and then use the command app_update 1106720 validate to download the server files for Hydroneer (SteamCMD Documentation). Once downloaded, these files need to be transferred to your server's designated directory, usually via an SFTP client like FileZilla.

After the files are in place, the next crucial step is configuration. Hydroneer servers are configured primarily through a server.ini file or similar configuration files. This file allows you to set various parameters, such as the server name, maximum player count, password (if desired), and other game-specific settings. For instance, you might find parameters like ServerName=My Awesome Hydroneer Server, MaxPlayers=8, or Password=MySecretPass. It is imperative to review these settings carefully and adjust them to your preferences. Incorrect configurations can lead to server instability or prevent players from joining. Many hosting control panels offer a graphical editor for these files, simplifying the process.

Starting the server is usually a straightforward click of a "Start" button within your hosting control panel. Upon initiation, the server will load the game world, initialize game logic, and begin listening for incoming connections. You can typically monitor the server's status and view console output directly from the control panel, which is invaluable for diagnosing any startup issues.

Connecting to your server is the final step. Your hosting provider will furnish you with an IP address and port number (e.g., 192.168.1.1:27015). In Hydroneer, players can connect directly by entering this IP address and port into the multiplayer connection dialogue within the game. If you've set a password, players will need to enter that as well. It's good practice to test the connection yourself first to ensure everything is functioning as expected.

For ongoing management, regular backups are paramount. Game worlds can be corrupted, or accidental deletions can occur. Most hosting providers offer automated backup solutions, but it's wise to understand how to manually initiate and restore backups. Keeping your server software updated is also crucial. Game developers frequently release patches and updates that fix bugs, improve performance, and add new content. Your hosting provider's control panel will often have an option to update the game server files, or you may need to repeat the SteamCMD update process.

In essence, setting up a Hydroneer server involves selecting a host, deploying the game files, configuring server settings, starting the server, and then connecting. While there are technical nuances, modern hosting solutions have significantly streamlined this process, making it accessible for even novice server administrators. Patience and careful attention to detail will ensure a smooth launch for your Hydroneer adventures.

Hosting Service Comparison and Recommendations

Choosing the right hosting service for your Hydroneer server is a pivotal decision that directly impacts performance, reliability, and your overall administrative experience. The market is saturated with providers, each offering a myriad of features and pricing structures. This section aims to dissect the key differentiators and provide unbiased recommendations tailored for the Hydroneer gamer.

When evaluating hosting providers, several critical factors come into play: performance, reliability (uptime), ease of use, customer support, pricing, and scalability.

Performance is paramount for a smooth Hydroneer experience. As discussed in the "Game Server Requirements" section, this translates to robust CPU performance (high single-core clock speeds), ample and fast RAM, and NVMe SSD storage. Providers that skimp on these specifications will inevitably lead to lag, stuttering, and a frustrating gameplay experience, especially as your world grows in complexity. Look for hosts that explicitly state their hardware specifications, particularly CPU models and clock speeds. Some providers might offer "unlimited" resources, which often translates to shared resources that can be oversold, leading to inconsistent performance during peak times. Dedicated resources or guaranteed resource allocation are preferable.

Reliability and Uptime refer to how consistently your server remains online and accessible. A server that frequently goes offline or experiences unexpected restarts is detrimental to player engagement. Reputable hosts boast 99.9% or higher uptime guarantees, backed by redundant power supplies, multiple network uplinks, and proactive monitoring. Data center location also plays a role here; choosing a host with servers geographically close to your player base minimizes latency, enhancing the gameplay experience.

Ease of Use is particularly important for beginners. A user-friendly control panel, such as Pterodactyl, GameCP, or a custom-built interface, can significantly simplify server management tasks like starting/stopping the server, configuring settings, installing mods, and managing backups. One-click installers for Hydroneer are a major convenience. Conversely, a complex or unintuitive interface can lead to frustration and increased support reliance.

Customer Support is your lifeline when issues arise. Evaluate providers based on their support channels (live chat, tickets, phone), response times, and the technical expertise of their staff. A host with 24/7 support and knowledgeable technicians who understand game server nuances can save you considerable time and stress. Review user testimonials and independent reviews regarding their support quality.

Pricing is, of course, a significant consideration. However, it's crucial to balance cost with the aforementioned factors. The cheapest option is rarely the best option for game server hosting. Compare pricing models (per slot, per GB RAM, per CPU core) and be wary of hidden fees. Some providers offer introductory discounts that expire, leading to higher renewal costs. Always read the fine print.

Scalability refers to the ease with which you can upgrade your server's resources (CPU, RAM, storage) as your player base grows or your world becomes more demanding. A good host will allow for seamless upgrades without requiring a complete server migration or significant downtime.

Based on these criteria, here are some general categories of hosting providers and considerations:

Specialized Game Server Hosts: These providers focus exclusively on game hosting. They often have optimized hardware, pre-configured game panels, and support staff familiar with common game server issues. Examples include GTXGaming, Survival Servers, and Nitrado. They typically offer excellent ease of use and support for specific games like Hydroneer. Their pricing can be slightly higher, but the convenience and performance often justify the cost.

General VPS (Virtual Private Server) Providers: These offer more flexibility and control. You get a virtual machine with dedicated resources, allowing you to install Hydroneer and any other software you desire. This option requires more technical expertise, as you'll be responsible for installing the operating system, SteamCMD, and managing the server manually. However, it often provides better performance per dollar if you have the technical know-how. Examples include DigitalOcean, Vultr, and Linode. This is a good choice for experienced users who want maximum control.

Dedicated Server Providers: For the most demanding Hydroneer communities or those planning to host multiple game servers, a full dedicated server offers unparalleled performance and control. You rent an entire physical machine. This is the most expensive option and requires significant technical expertise in server administration. Providers like OVHcloud or Hetzner offer robust dedicated server solutions.

Recommendations for Hydroneer:

For most Hydroneer players looking to host a server for friends or a small community (up to 8-16 players), a specialized game server host is often the best balance of performance, ease of use, and cost. Look for providers that explicitly list Hydroneer support and offer at least 8GB of RAM and an SSD. Prioritize those with data centers geographically close to your primary player base.

When comparing specific providers, pay close attention to:

CPU Model and Clock Speed: Aim for modern CPUs (e.g., Intel i7/Ryzen 7 equivalent or better) with clock speeds above 3.5 GHz.

Storage Type: Always opt for NVMe SSDs for optimal world loading and saving.

RAM Allocation: Ensure sufficient RAM for your anticipated player count and world complexity.

Control Panel: A user-friendly panel like Pterodactyl is a significant advantage.

Backup Solutions: Automated daily backups are a must.

Ultimately, the "best" host is subjective and depends on your specific needs, budget, and technical comfort level. However, by carefully evaluating these factors, you can make an informed decision that ensures a stable and enjoyable Hydroneer multiplayer experience. Don't hesitate to leverage free trials or short-term contracts to test a provider's service before committing long-term.

Troubleshooting

Even with the most meticulously configured server and the most reliable hosting provider, issues can arise. Effective troubleshooting is a critical skill for any server administrator, transforming potential frustrations into solvable challenges. This section will outline common Hydroneer server problems and provide systematic approaches to diagnose and resolve them.

The first principle of troubleshooting is systematic isolation. Avoid making multiple changes simultaneously. Change one variable, test, and observe the outcome. This methodical approach helps pinpoint the root cause of an issue.

Common Problem 1: Server Not Starting or Crashing on Startup

Symptom: The server console shows errors during startup, or the server simply fails to become accessible.

Diagnosis:

Review Server Logs: This is your primary diagnostic tool. Most hosting control panels provide access to server logs. Look for keywords like "Error," "Failed," "Exception," or specific stack traces. These often point directly to the problematic file or configuration.

Configuration File Errors: Incorrect syntax in server.ini or other configuration files is a frequent culprit. Even a misplaced comma or an invalid value can prevent startup. Use a plain text editor (not a word processor) to review these files.

Missing or Corrupt Files: The game server files might be incomplete or damaged.

Resolution:

Correct Configuration: Carefully re-examine any recent changes to configuration files. If unsure, revert to a known working backup of the configuration or compare it against default settings.

Verify Game Files: Use the hosting panel's "Verify Files" option, or if using SteamCMD, run app_update 1106720 validate again to ensure all files are present and uncorrupted.

Resource Exhaustion: Check if the server has sufficient RAM and CPU. If the server is trying to load a very large world on insufficient resources, it might crash. Consider upgrading your hosting plan temporarily to test this.

Common Problem 2: Players Cannot Connect

Symptom: Players receive "Connection Failed," "Server Not Responding," or similar errors when attempting to join.

Diagnosis:

Incorrect IP/Port: Double-check that players are using the exact IP address and port provided by your host.

Firewall Issues: The server's firewall (either on the host machine or a network firewall) might be blocking incoming connections on the game port.

Server Not Running: Confirm the server is actually online and running via your control panel.

Password Mismatch: If a password is set, ensure players are entering it correctly.

Resolution:

Verify Connection Details: Share the IP and port clearly.

Check Firewall Rules: If you have root access to a VPS, ensure the game port (default for Hydroneer is often 7777 UDP, but check your host's documentation or server logs) is open in ufw (Linux) or Windows Firewall. Hosting providers usually manage this for game server plans.

Restart Server: A simple restart can sometimes resolve transient network issues.

Remove Password (Temporarily): If connection issues persist, try removing the server password temporarily to rule it out as a cause.

Common Problem 3: Lag and Performance Issues

Symptom: Players experience rubber-banding, delayed actions, low server tick rate, or general unresponsiveness.

Diagnosis:

Resource Monitoring: Use your hosting panel's resource graphs (CPU, RAM, Network I/O) to identify bottlenecks. High CPU utilization, near-full RAM, or saturated network bandwidth are clear indicators.

Player Count vs. Resources: Is the server struggling under the current player load?

Complex Builds/Automation: Extremely large or complex player-built structures, especially those involving extensive water physics or numerous automated machines, can be very resource-intensive.

Network Latency: Use ping or traceroute commands from a player's machine to the server IP to check for high latency or packet loss.

Resolution:

Upgrade Resources: If CPU or RAM are consistently maxed out, an upgrade to a more powerful hosting plan is often the most direct solution.

Optimize Game Settings: Within the server.ini, some settings might be adjustable to reduce server load (e.g., reducing render distance, simplifying physics calculations if available).

Player Management: If specific players' builds are causing issues, communicate with them about optimizing their designs.

Check Network: If latency is high, consider if the server's geographical location is optimal for your player base. Contact your host if you suspect network issues on their end.

Common Problem 4: World Corruption or Data Loss

Symptom: Game world is reset, items are missing, or the server fails to load the world.

Diagnosis:

Server Crashes: Frequent, unexpected server crashes increase the risk of world corruption.

Improper Shutdowns: Forcefully terminating the server process instead of a graceful shutdown can lead to unsaved data.

Disk Errors: Rare, but possible, underlying storage issues.

Resolution:

Restore from Backup: This is why regular backups are crucial. Restore the most recent known good backup of your world data.

Identify Crash Cause: If crashes are frequent, troubleshoot them using the methods described in "Server Not Starting or Crashing."

Graceful Shutdowns: Always use the "Stop" button in your control panel to ensure the server saves its state properly.

General Troubleshooting Tips:

Consult Documentation: Your hosting provider's knowledge base and Hydroneer's official documentation are invaluable resources.

Community Forums: Game-specific forums or Discord servers often have experienced users who can offer advice.

Contact Support: If you've exhausted your options, don't hesitate to contact your hosting provider's support team. Provide them with detailed information, including error messages, steps taken, and relevant log snippets.

By approaching server issues methodically and leveraging available resources, you can effectively troubleshoot and maintain a stable and enjoyable Hydroneer server for your community.

Performance Optimization Tips

Achieving optimal performance for your Hydroneer server is a continuous process, extending beyond merely meeting the minimum hardware requirements. It involves strategic configuration, resource management, and sometimes, even player education. The goal is to maximize the server's responsiveness and stability, ensuring a fluid experience for all participants, even as the game world grows in complexity.

One of the most impactful areas for optimization lies in resource allocation and monitoring. Regularly review your hosting provider's resource graphs (CPU, RAM, network I/O). If any resource consistently approaches its maximum capacity, it's a clear indicator of a bottleneck. For instance, if CPU usage frequently spikes to 90-100%, the server is struggling to process game logic, leading to a low tick rate and noticeable lag. Similarly, if RAM usage is consistently high, the server might be swapping data to slower disk storage, causing hitches. Proactive upgrades to a higher-tier hosting plan with more CPU cores (or faster single-core performance) and additional RAM are often the most direct solutions to these hardware-level bottlenecks.

Game-specific configuration settings within the server.ini file can also be tweaked for performance. While Hydroneer may not offer as extensive a range of server-side performance settings as some other titles, any available options should be explored. For example, if there are settings related to world generation complexity, physics simulation detail, or the frequency of world saves, adjusting these can reduce server load. Reducing the maximum player count, even if your hardware could theoretically handle more, can significantly improve the experience for the remaining players by lowering the overall processing demand. Always test changes incrementally to observe their impact.

World management and player-built structures are significant contributors to server load in Hydroneer. The game's core loop involves complex physics simulations for water flow, item movement, and machine operations.

Excessive Water Systems: Large, intricate water networks with many pipes, pumps, and filters can be computationally intensive. Encourage players to optimize their water setups, perhaps by consolidating systems or using simpler designs where possible.

Overly Complex Automation: While automation is a core aspect of Hydroneer, sprawling, inefficient, or redundant automated systems can tax the server. Players should be encouraged to design compact and efficient layouts.

Unnecessary Items/Entities: Leaving vast quantities of loose items scattered across the world, especially small nuggets or debris, can accumulate and increase the server's workload. Implementing server rules or encouraging players to clean up their areas can help.

Chunk Loading: The server has to manage and update all loaded chunks. While players are spread out, more chunks are active, increasing the processing burden.

Network optimization is another crucial aspect. While largely handled by your hosting provider, ensuring your server is located geographically close to the majority of your player base minimizes latency, which is perceived as lag. If players are experiencing high ping despite adequate server resources, consider if a different data center location would be more suitable. Furthermore, ensure that the server's network interface is not saturated. While unlikely for Hydroneer unless hosting a very large number of players, monitoring network I/O can identify if the server is struggling to send and receive data efficiently.

Regular maintenance contributes to long-term performance.

Server Updates: Keep the Hydroneer server software updated to the latest version. Developers often release performance optimizations and bug fixes that can significantly improve server stability and efficiency.

Operating System Updates: If you're managing a VPS or dedicated server, ensure the underlying operating system is kept up-to-date with security patches and performance enhancements.

Disk Cleanup: Periodically remove old log files, temporary files, or outdated backups to free up disk space, especially if using an SSD where performance can degrade slightly when nearly full.

Finally, player education and community guidelines can play a surprisingly large role in performance optimization. Clearly communicate to your players about server performance considerations. Explain how certain types of builds or excessive item clutter can impact everyone's experience. Encourage efficient designs and responsible resource management within the game. A collaborative approach where players understand their role in maintaining server health can be highly effective.

By combining robust hardware, intelligent configuration, vigilant monitoring, and community engagement, you can significantly enhance the performance and longevity of your Hydroneer server, providing a consistently enjoyable experience for all.

Technical Q&A

This section addresses common technical questions that arise during the setup, maintenance, and operation of a Hydroneer server. These answers aim to provide clear, concise, and authoritative guidance, drawing upon established computing principles and game server best practices.

Q1: What is the difference between a "dedicated server" and "self-hosting" for Hydroneer?

A dedicated server, in the context of game hosting, refers to a server instance (either a virtual private server or a physical machine) that is specifically allocated for running the game server application. This server is typically hosted by a professional provider in a data center, offering high bandwidth, low latency, and guaranteed uptime. "Self-hosting," conversely, means running the game server on your personal computer or a machine within your home network. While seemingly free, self-hosting requires your computer to be on 24/7, consumes your home internet's upload bandwidth, and necessitates technical configuration like port forwarding, which can pose security risks if not done correctly. Dedicated servers offer superior performance, reliability, and ease of management for most users.

Q2: How do I find my Hydroneer server's IP address and port?

If you are using a professional hosting service, your server's IP address and port will be provided in your control panel or welcome email. The IP address is a unique numerical identifier for your server on the internet (e.g., 192.168.1.1), and the port is a specific channel on that IP address that the Hydroneer server listens on (e.g., 7777). Players will need both to connect. If you are self-hosting, your server's IP address will be your public IP address (which can be found by searching "what is my IP" on Google), and the port will be the one you configured for port forwarding on your router.

Q3: Can I run multiple Hydroneer servers on a single hosting plan?

This depends entirely on your hosting plan and the resources allocated. If you have a VPS or dedicated server, you can theoretically run multiple Hydroneer server instances, provided the server has sufficient CPU, RAM, and storage to handle the combined load of all instances. Each Hydroneer server instance will require its own set of game files, configuration, and a unique port number. Most specialized game server hosts offer plans that are designed for a single game server instance, but some higher-tier plans might allow for multiple instances or offer "slots" that can be divided among different games. Consult your hosting provider's documentation or support for specifics.

Q4: What is "port forwarding" and why is it necessary for self-hosting?

Port forwarding is a network address translation (NAT) technique that redirects incoming network traffic from a specific port on your router's public IP address to a specific port on a device within your local network (e.g., your computer running the Hydroneer server). It is necessary for self-hosting because, by default, routers block unsolicited incoming connections for security reasons. Without port forwarding, external players cannot initiate a connection to your Hydroneer server, as the router wouldn't know which internal device to send the game traffic to. The process involves logging into your router's administration interface and creating a rule to forward the Hydroneer game port (typically UDP 7777) to the internal IP address of your server machine.

Q5: How do I update my Hydroneer server to the latest version?

The method for updating depends on your hosting setup.

Game Server Host: Most specialized game server hosts provide a one-click update button within their control panel. This automates the process of downloading and applying the latest Hydroneer server files.

VPS/Dedicated Server (Manual): If you manually installed the server using SteamCMD, you would typically stop the server, log into SteamCMD, and run the command app_update 1106720 validate again. This will download any new or updated files. After the update, restart your server. Always back up your world data before performing major updates.

Q6: My server is lagging, but my CPU and RAM usage seem fine. What else could be the issue?

If CPU and RAM are not the bottlenecks, consider these possibilities:

Network Latency/Packet Loss: High ping or packet loss between players and the server can manifest as lag. Use ping and traceroute to diagnose network path issues. The server's geographical location relative to players is crucial.

Storage I/O: If the server is constantly reading from or writing to a slow storage device (e.g., an HDD instead of an SSD), it can cause hitches, especially during world saves or chunk loading.

Game-Specific Optimizations: Certain in-game elements, like overly complex water systems or massive numbers of loose items, can be very demanding on the game engine's physics calculations, even if raw CPU/RAM usage isn't maxed out. This is a game engine bottleneck rather than a hardware one.

Software Issues: Rarely, a bug in the game server software itself or the underlying operating system could cause performance degradation. Ensure all software is up to date.

Q7: How often should I back up my Hydroneer server world?

Regular backups are paramount to prevent data loss. The frequency depends on how much progress you are willing to lose. For active servers, daily backups are highly recommended. Many hosting providers offer automated daily backups. If your host doesn't, or if you want additional redundancy, consider implementing a manual backup schedule (e.g., weekly or before major game updates). Always store backups in a separate location from the live server, ideally off-site, to protect against catastrophic data loss.

Q8: Can I add mods to my Hydroneer server?

Yes, Hydroneer supports modding. The process typically involves installing a mod loader (if required by the mods) and then placing the mod files into specific directories on the server. The exact procedure can vary depending on the mod loader and the mods themselves. Always ensure that both the server and all connecting clients have the same versions of the mods installed to prevent compatibility issues and connection errors. Consult the documentation provided by the mod developers and your hosting provider for specific instructions.