Server Setup Guide for [Cities: Skylines (multiplayer mods)] Gamers

Game Server Requirements

Embarking on the journey of hosting a private Northgard server necessitates a foundational understanding of the underlying hardware and software prerequisites. The smooth operation of a dedicated game server, particularly for a real-time strategy title like Northgard, hinges critically on meeting these specifications. Unlike client-side gaming, where the local machine renders the game and connects to a remote server, hosting a server means your chosen hardware will be responsible for processing game logic, managing player connections, and synchronizing game states across all connected clients. This distinction is paramount for ensuring a fluid and responsive multiplayer experience.

At its core, a Northgard server, even for private lobbies, requires a stable and robust computing environment. The central processing unit (CPU) is often considered the brain of any computer system, and for game servers, its clock speed and core count are significant factors. While Northgard is not as CPU-intensive as some graphically demanding first-person shooters, a modern multi-core processor is highly recommended. A quad-core CPU with a clock speed of at least 2.5 GHz per core provides a solid baseline. Processors from Intel's Core i5 or AMD's Ryzen 5 series, or their server-grade equivalents, are generally sufficient. The server's CPU must efficiently handle numerous concurrent calculations, including unit movements, resource management, combat resolutions, and AI decisions for non-player factions.

Random Access Memory (RAM) is another critical component. It serves as the short-term data storage for the server, holding active game data, player information, and operating system processes. Insufficient RAM can lead to frequent disk swapping, significantly degrading performance and introducing latency. For a Northgard private server catering to a typical lobby size (e.g., 2-8 players), a minimum of 8 GB of RAM is advisable. However, to accommodate potential spikes in player activity, future game updates, or the simultaneous operation of other background services, 16 GB of RAM offers a more comfortable buffer. The speed of the RAM, often measured in MHz, also plays a role, with faster RAM contributing to quicker data access and overall system responsiveness.

Storage, while not as directly impactful on real-time performance as CPU or RAM, is crucial for the operating system, game server files, and any persistent game data or logs. Solid State Drives (SSDs) are overwhelmingly preferred over traditional Hard Disk Drives (HDDs) due to their superior read/write speeds. An SSD will significantly reduce server startup times, map loading times, and the speed at which game data can be accessed and written. A 120 GB SSD is typically sufficient for the operating system and Northgard server files, though a 240 GB or larger drive provides more room for expansion and other applications. The type of SSD, whether SATA or NVMe, also influences performance, with NVMe drives offering the fastest speeds.

Network connectivity is arguably the most vital component for any online game server. A high-bandwidth, low-latency internet connection is indispensable. The server needs to send and receive data packets to and from all connected players continuously. An upload speed of at least 10 Mbps is a good starting point for a small private lobby, but 20-50 Mbps or higher is recommended for a more robust and future-proof setup, especially if multiple players are connecting from diverse geographical locations. Download speed is also important for initial game file downloads and updates. More critically, latency, or ping, should be as low as possible. A wired Ethernet connection is always superior to Wi-Fi for server stability and reduced latency. The server's physical location relative to the players can also influence latency, a factor often considered when choosing a hosting provider.

The operating system (OS) on which the Northgard server runs also merits consideration. While Northgard is primarily a Windows-based game, dedicated servers often leverage Linux distributions due to their efficiency, stability, and lower resource overhead. Popular choices include Ubuntu Server, Debian, or CentOS. These operating systems are typically command-line interface (CLI) based, which can have a steeper learning curve for beginners but offer greater control and reduced resource consumption compared to graphical user interface (GUI) based systems. If a Windows OS is preferred, Windows Server editions are designed for server workloads, offering better performance and security features than standard desktop Windows versions. Regardless of the OS, it must be kept updated with the latest security patches and system drivers.

Finally, consider the power supply unit (PSU) and cooling. A stable and adequately sized PSU is essential to deliver consistent power to all components. Overheating can lead to performance throttling, system instability, and even hardware damage. Proper ventilation and cooling solutions, such as efficient CPU coolers and case fans, are crucial, especially for servers running continuously. While these might seem like secondary considerations, their impact on long-term server reliability and performance is significant.

In summary, a Northgard private server demands a balanced configuration of CPU, RAM, storage, and network capabilities. Prioritizing these elements ensures a stable, responsive, and enjoyable gaming environment for all participants.

Beginner's Guide

Setting up a private Northgard server might seem like a daunting task at first glance, but by breaking it down into manageable steps, even a novice can achieve a successful deployment. This guide aims to demystify the process, providing a clear, step-by-step walkthrough from initial preparation to launching your first private lobby. The goal is to empower you to create a dedicated space where you and your friends can conquer the lands of Northgard without the constraints or potential lag of public servers.

The very first step involves choosing your hosting method. There are two primary avenues: self-hosting or using a dedicated game server hosting provider. Self-hosting means running the server software on your own computer or a dedicated machine you own. This offers maximum control but requires significant technical knowledge, a robust internet connection, and the server machine to be online constantly. Game server hosting providers, on the other hand, manage the hardware, network, and often the initial software setup for you, offering a more convenient and often more reliable solution, albeit at a cost. For beginners, especially those without a strong technical background or a powerful home internet connection, a hosting provider is generally the recommended path.

Once you've decided on a hosting method, the next crucial step is acquiring the Northgard dedicated server files. Unlike many games that integrate server files directly into the client, Northgard typically provides its dedicated server application through SteamCMD. SteamCMD is a command-line version of the Steam client, designed to install and update various Steam-supported dedicated servers. You'll need to download and install SteamCMD on your chosen server machine (or the machine provided by your hosting provider). After installation, you'll use specific commands to log in anonymously and download the Northgard dedicated server application. The command app_update 595990 validate is commonly used, where 595990 is the Steam App ID for the Northgard dedicated server. Ensure you have sufficient disk space for the download.

With the server files in place, the next phase is initial server configuration. This involves editing configuration files, typically text-based files with .ini or .cfg extensions, to define server parameters. Key settings to look for include:

Server Name: This is how your server will appear in the in-game server browser. Choose something descriptive and unique.

Password: Essential for private lobbies. Set a strong password to restrict access to invited players.

Max Players: Define the maximum number of players your server can accommodate.

Game Mode: Specify the default game mode (e.g., Conquest, Relic, etc.).

Map Seed: While often randomized, you might be able to set a specific map seed for consistent map generation.

Port Number: The default port for Northgard is usually 27015, but this might need to be adjusted if other services are using it or if your hosting provider assigns a different port.

These configuration files are usually located within the Northgard dedicated server directory. Use a plain text editor (like Notepad on Windows or Nano/Vim on Linux) to make these changes. Always save a backup of the original configuration files before making modifications.

For self-hosting, network configuration and port forwarding are critical. Your home router acts as a firewall, blocking incoming connections by default. To allow players to connect to your Northgard server, you must "forward" the server's port (e.g., 27015 UDP/TCP) through your router to the internal IP address of your server machine. This process varies significantly between router models, so consulting your router's manual or an online guide specific to your router is essential. You'll also need to ensure your server machine has a static internal IP address to prevent it from changing and breaking your port forwarding rules. If using a hosting provider, they typically handle this aspect, or provide a control panel to manage ports.

The penultimate step is launching the server. This is usually done by executing a specific batch file (.bat on Windows) or shell script (.sh on Linux) located within the Northgard dedicated server directory. This script typically contains commands to start the server application with the specified configuration. For instance, a Windows batch file might look something like:

@echo off

start NorthgardServer.exe -port 27015 -config "server_config.cfg"

echo Northgard Server Started!

pause

The exact command will depend on the Northgard server application's executable name and any specific command-line arguments it supports. Once launched, a console window will typically appear, displaying server logs and status messages. Monitor this output for any errors during startup.

Finally, connecting to your private lobby. Once the server is running, players can connect in-game. In Northgard, this usually involves navigating to the multiplayer section, selecting "Join Game," and then either searching for your server by name (if it's public or listed) or using the "Direct Connect" option. For direct connect, players will need your server's public IP address (if self-hosting, you can find this by searching "what is my IP" on Google) and the port number (e.g., your.public.ip.address:27015). If you set a password, players will be prompted to enter it.

By following these steps, you will have successfully established your Northgard private lobby. Remember to regularly check for server updates via SteamCMD and back up your configuration files. Enjoy your custom Northgard adventures!

Hosting Service Comparison and Recommendations

Choosing the right hosting service for your Northgard private lobby is a pivotal decision that can significantly impact your gaming experience. The market is replete with providers, each offering a distinct blend of features, performance, and pricing. This section aims to provide a balanced comparison, highlighting key factors to consider and offering recommendations without bias, ensuring you make an informed choice tailored to your specific needs as a gamer. The ultimate goal is to secure a hosting environment that delivers low latency, high uptime, and sufficient resources for a seamless Northgard session.

When evaluating hosting providers, several critical parameters come into play. The first and foremost is performance. This encompasses CPU power, RAM allocation, and storage type. For Northgard, a provider offering modern, high-clock-speed CPUs (e.g., Intel Xeon E3/E5 or AMD Ryzen equivalents) is preferable. Adequate RAM, typically 8GB or more for a Northgard server, ensures smooth operation. Crucially, the use of Solid State Drives (SSDs), particularly NVMe SSDs, for server files and game data will drastically reduce loading times and improve overall responsiveness compared to traditional HDDs. Some providers offer "game-optimized" servers, which often means they prioritize these hardware specifications.

Network infrastructure is another non-negotiable aspect. A hosting provider's data center location, network backbone, and uplink speeds directly influence latency (ping) and bandwidth. Opt for a provider with data centers geographically close to the majority of your players to minimize ping. Look for providers advertising high-speed uplinks (e.g., 1 Gbps or 10 Gbps ports) and redundant network connections to ensure consistent connectivity. DDoS protection is also a valuable feature, safeguarding your server against malicious attacks that could disrupt gameplay.

Ease of use and control panel features are particularly important for beginners. Many game server hosts offer custom control panels (e.g., TCAdmin, Pterodactyl, or proprietary solutions) that simplify server management. These panels typically allow you to start/stop/restart the server, install/update game files, edit configuration files, manage backups, and view server logs through a user-friendly web interface. A robust control panel can significantly reduce the technical overhead of managing a Northgard server. Some providers also offer one-click installation for Northgard dedicated servers, further streamlining the setup process.

Customer support is often overlooked until an issue arises. Evaluate the provider's support channels (live chat, tickets, phone), response times, and the knowledge base available. A responsive and knowledgeable support team can be invaluable when troubleshooting technical problems or seeking assistance with server configuration. Look for providers with 24/7 support, especially if you plan to host games at various times.

Pricing and scalability are practical considerations. Compare pricing models (monthly, quarterly, annual) and what's included in each package. Be wary of excessively cheap offers that might compromise on hardware or support. Consider if the provider offers easy scalability, allowing you to upgrade or downgrade resources (CPU, RAM, storage) as your needs evolve without significant downtime or migration hassles. Some providers offer flexible billing based on resource usage, which can be cost-effective for intermittent hosting.

Now, let's consider some general categories of hosting providers and their suitability for Northgard:

Specialized Game Server Hosts: These providers focus exclusively on game hosting. They often have optimized hardware, pre-configured server images for popular games like Northgard, and game-specific control panels. Examples include providers like GPORTAL, Nitrado, or Survival Servers.

Pros: Excellent performance, easy setup, game-specific support, often include DDoS protection.

Cons: Can be slightly more expensive than general-purpose VPS, less flexibility for non-gaming applications.

Recommendation: Highly recommended for beginners and those who prioritize ease of use and dedicated game performance.

Virtual Private Server (VPS) Providers: VPS hosting offers a virtualized slice of a physical server, giving you root access and more control over the operating system and software. Examples include DigitalOcean, Linode, Vultr, or OVHcloud.

Pros: More control, often more cost-effective for comparable resources, can host multiple applications.

Cons: Requires more technical knowledge (Linux command line, server administration), initial setup can be more complex.

Recommendation: Suitable for technically proficient users who want more control, flexibility, and potentially lower costs, or who wish to host other services alongside Northgard.

Dedicated Server Providers: This involves renting an entire physical server.

Pros: Maximum performance, control, and customization.

Cons: Most expensive option, requires significant technical expertise to manage.

Recommendation: Overkill for a Northgard private lobby unless you plan to host multiple high-demand game servers or other enterprise-level applications.

When making your final decision, it's advisable to read recent reviews from other gamers, check community forums, and potentially even try a short-term rental or a trial period if available. Remember, the "best" host is subjective and depends on your budget, technical comfort level, and the specific requirements of your Northgard community. Prioritize a balance of performance, reliability, and support to ensure a consistently enjoyable gaming experience.

Troubleshooting

Even with meticulous planning and setup, technical glitches can occasionally disrupt your Northgard private lobby. Effective troubleshooting is an essential skill for any server administrator, transforming potential frustration into swift resolution. This section outlines common issues encountered during Northgard server setup and operation, providing systematic approaches to diagnose and rectify them. The aim is to equip you with the knowledge to identify the root cause of problems and implement solutions, ensuring minimal downtime and a smooth gaming experience for your players.

One of the most frequent issues encountered is players being unable to connect to the server. This can manifest as "Server Not Found," "Connection Timed Out," or similar error messages. The first line of inquiry should always be network connectivity.

Verify Server Status: Ensure the Northgard dedicated server application is actually running on your host machine or through your hosting provider's control panel. Check server logs for any startup errors.

Firewall Configuration: Both the server machine's operating system firewall (e.g., Windows Firewall, ufw on Linux) and any network firewalls (like your router's firewall if self-hosting) must allow incoming connections on the Northgard server port (default 27015 UDP/TCP). Incorrect firewall rules are a very common culprit.

Port Forwarding (Self-Hosting): If you are self-hosting, double-check that port forwarding is correctly configured on your router. The external port must map to the internal IP address of your server machine and the correct internal port. Use online port checker tools to verify if the port is open from the internet.

Public IP Address: Ensure players are using the correct public IP address of your server. If your public IP changes (common with dynamic IP addresses from ISPs), players will need the updated address. Using a Dynamic DNS (DDNS) service can mitigate this for self-hosted servers.

Hosting Provider Issues: If using a hosting provider, confirm with their support that your server's ports are open and accessible from the internet. Sometimes, providers have their own network-level firewalls.

Another common problem is high latency or lag during gameplay. This can severely degrade the Northgard experience.

Server Location: The geographical distance between the server and players is a primary factor. If players are far from the data center, latency will naturally be higher.

Server Resources: Insufficient CPU, RAM, or slow storage on the server can lead to performance bottlenecks. Monitor server resource usage (CPU utilization, RAM usage) using tools like htop (Linux) or Task Manager (Windows). If resources are consistently maxed out, an upgrade might be necessary.

Network Congestion: The server's internet connection might be saturated, or there could be congestion on the network path between players and the server. Perform traceroute tests from both the server and client machines to identify points of high latency.

Client-Side Issues: Sometimes, lag originates from the player's end (slow internet, outdated drivers, weak hardware). While not a server issue, it's worth considering when diagnosing.

Server crashes or instability can be particularly frustrating.

Server Logs: The server's log files are your best friend here. They record events, errors, and warnings. Examine them for recurring error messages or critical failures that precede a crash. These logs often provide clues about the specific component or action causing the instability.

Outdated Server Files: Ensure your Northgard dedicated server files are up-to-date. Game updates often include bug fixes and performance improvements. Use SteamCMD to regularly update the server.

Corrupted Configuration Files: Incorrectly edited or corrupted configuration files can prevent the server from starting or cause crashes. Always back up your configuration files before making changes. If a crash occurs after a configuration change, revert to the backup.

Hardware Failure: While less common with hosting providers, self-hosted servers can experience hardware failures (e.g., failing RAM, overheating CPU). Monitor hardware health if possible.

Game-specific issues, such as specific game mechanics not working or persistent in-game bugs, might also arise.

Game Version Mismatch: Ensure both the server and all connecting clients are running the exact same version of Northgard. A version mismatch will prevent connections or cause unexpected behavior.

Mod Conflicts: If you are using any server-side modifications or custom content, these can sometimes conflict with the base game or each other. Try running the server without mods to isolate the issue.

Configuration Errors: Double-check your server configuration files for any typos or incorrect values related to game settings.

When troubleshooting, adopt a systematic approach:

Isolate the Problem: Determine if the issue is affecting all players or just one, and if it's constant or intermittent.

Check the Obvious First: Verify power, network cables, server running status, and basic connectivity.

Consult Logs: Always check server logs for error messages.

Change One Variable at a Time: When testing solutions, alter only one setting or component at a time to clearly identify the impact of each change.

Document Everything: Keep a record of changes made, errors encountered, and solutions attempted. This helps in future troubleshooting and learning.

Seek Community Support: If you're stuck, Northgard communities, forums, and your hosting provider's support are valuable resources.

By approaching troubleshooting methodically, you can efficiently resolve most server-related issues, ensuring your Northgard private lobby remains a reliable and enjoyable destination for your gaming group.

Performance Optimization Tips

Achieving optimal performance for your Northgard private lobby is not merely about meeting minimum requirements; it's about fine-tuning every aspect to deliver the smoothest, most responsive gaming experience possible. Even with robust hardware, inefficient configurations or overlooked details can introduce latency and stutter. This section delves into practical strategies and advanced techniques for maximizing your Northgard server's performance, ensuring a lag-free environment where strategic decisions are executed without delay.

The foundation of performance optimization lies in resource management.

Dedicated Resources: If using a Virtual Private Server (VPS), ensure your chosen plan provides dedicated CPU cores and RAM, rather than shared resources. Shared resources can lead to performance fluctuations during peak usage by other tenants on the same physical machine.

Minimize Background Processes: The server machine should be dedicated primarily to running the Northgard server. Close or disable any unnecessary background applications, services, or scheduled tasks that consume CPU cycles, RAM, or network bandwidth. This includes graphical user interfaces (if using a Linux server, prefer a CLI-only installation), web servers, or other game servers that are not actively in use.

Operating System Optimization: For Linux servers, consider using a lightweight distribution (e.g., Debian Minimal, Ubuntu Server without a GUI) to reduce OS overhead. For Windows servers, disable unnecessary visual effects, indexing services, and background updates that can consume resources. Ensure the OS is configured for "High Performance" power plans.

Network optimization is paramount for a real-time strategy game like Northgard.

High-Quality Network Hardware: If self-hosting, use a high-quality router and network interface card (NIC) that can handle sustained traffic. Ensure all network cables are Cat5e or Cat6 for optimal performance.

QoS (Quality of Service): If your router or hosting provider offers QoS settings, prioritize traffic to and from your Northgard server. This ensures game data packets receive preferential treatment over less time-sensitive traffic (e.g., file downloads, streaming).

Server Location: As mentioned previously, choosing a hosting provider with data centers geographically close to the majority of your players is the single most effective way to reduce latency. The speed of light is a fundamental constraint that cannot be optimized away.

DDoS Protection: While primarily a security feature, robust DDoS protection can prevent network saturation and performance degradation caused by malicious attacks.

Game server configuration tuning offers specific avenues for improvement.

Tick Rate: While Northgard may not expose a direct "tick rate" setting like some FPS games, understanding its impact is crucial. A higher tick rate means the server updates the game state more frequently, leading to smoother and more responsive gameplay, but also consuming more CPU and bandwidth. If available, adjusting this setting (or similar server update frequency parameters) can balance responsiveness with resource usage.

Map Size and Player Count: Larger maps and a higher number of players naturally demand more server resources. If you're experiencing performance issues, consider reducing the default map size or limiting the maximum player count for your private lobbies.

Server-Side Mods: While mods can enhance gameplay, poorly optimized or resource-intensive mods can significantly degrade server performance. Test mods individually and monitor server resource usage to identify any performance hogs.

Logging Level: Reduce the verbosity of server logging if possible. While logs are crucial for troubleshooting, excessive logging can consume disk I/O and CPU cycles. Set logging to a level that captures essential errors and warnings without flooding the system with unnecessary information.

Storage and I/O optimization should not be overlooked.

NVMe SSDs: Prioritize hosting solutions that utilize NVMe SSDs. Their significantly higher read/write speeds compared to SATA SSDs or HDDs will improve map loading times, save game operations, and overall server responsiveness, especially during periods of high data access.

Regular Backups: While not directly a performance tip, regular backups prevent data loss and allow for quick recovery in case of corruption, which can otherwise lead to lengthy downtime and troubleshooting. Ensure backups are offloaded to a separate storage medium to avoid consuming server resources.

Finally, proactive monitoring and maintenance are key to sustained performance.

Resource Monitoring: Continuously monitor your server's CPU, RAM, disk I/O, and network usage. Tools like htop, glances (Linux), or Task Manager/Resource Monitor (Windows) provide real-time insights. Many hosting providers also offer integrated monitoring dashboards. Identify trends and address potential bottlenecks before they impact gameplay.

Keep Software Updated: Regularly update the Northgard dedicated server files via SteamCMD, as well as the operating system and any server management software. Updates often include performance enhancements and bug fixes.

Scheduled Restarts: Implement a schedule for automatic server restarts, perhaps once every 24-48 hours. This can help clear memory leaks, refresh server processes, and ensure a clean slate for new game sessions.

By implementing these performance optimization tips, you can transform your Northgard private lobby into a highly efficient and enjoyable gaming environment, providing a competitive edge and a superior experience for all participants.

Technical Q&A

Navigating the intricacies of Northgard server setup and management often leads to specific technical questions. This section addresses common queries in a comprehensive Q&A format, drawing upon authoritative sources to provide clear, actionable answers. The goal is to demystify complex technical concepts and empower users to confidently manage their private Northgard lobbies, ensuring a robust and enjoyable gaming experience.

Q1: What is the difference between hosting a Northgard game directly from the client and using a dedicated server?

A1: When you host a Northgard game directly from the client, your game instance acts as both the client (rendering the game for you) and the server (processing game logic and synchronizing with other players). This approach is convenient for quick, casual games but places a significant load on your local machine's CPU, RAM, and internet connection. It can lead to higher latency for other players, especially if your upload speed is limited, and the game ends if the host disconnects.

A dedicated server, conversely, runs the Northgard server application independently of any client. It solely focuses on processing game logic, managing player connections, and maintaining game state. This offloads the computational burden from individual players, resulting in lower latency, improved stability, and a more consistent experience for everyone. The server can also run 24/7 without a player needing to be present, and it is generally more resilient to network fluctuations.

Q2: How do I update my Northgard dedicated server files?

A2: Updating your Northgard dedicated server is crucial for compatibility with the latest game client versions and to benefit from bug fixes and performance improvements. The primary method is through SteamCMD.

Stop the Server: Before updating, ensure your Northgard server is completely shut down.

Launch SteamCMD: Open your SteamCMD command prompt or terminal.

Login (Optional but Recommended): While anonymous login often works, logging in with your Steam account can sometimes resolve update issues: login (or login anonymous for anonymous access).

Set Install Directory: Navigate to your Northgard server's installation directory using force_install_dir .

Update Command: Execute the update command: app_update 595990 validate. The 595990 is the Steam App ID for the Northgard dedicated server. The validate command ensures all files are correctly downloaded and verified.

Exit SteamCMD: Type quit to exit SteamCMD.

Restart Server: Once the update is complete, you can restart your Northgard server.

Regularly checking for updates (e.g., weekly or after major game patches) is a good practice.

Q3: What are common port numbers for Northgard and why are they important?

A3: The default port number for Northgard dedicated servers is typically 27015. This port is used for both UDP (User Datagram Protocol) and TCP (Transmission Control Protocol) traffic.

UDP: Primarily used for real-time game data (player movements, combat, resource updates) where speed is prioritized over guaranteed delivery.

TCP: Used for more reliable data transfer, such as initial connection handshakes, chat messages, and potentially some game state synchronization where data integrity is critical.

These port numbers are crucial because they act as specific "doors" on your server machine that allow incoming connections for the Northgard server application. If these ports are blocked by a firewall or not correctly forwarded (if self-hosting), players will be unable to connect to your server. While 27015 is standard, some hosting providers might assign a different port, or you might choose a different one if 27015 is already in use by another application on your machine.

Q4: My server is running, but players can't see it in the in-game server browser. What could be wrong?

A4: If players cannot see your server in the in-game browser, several factors could be at play:

Firewall/Port Forwarding: Even if direct connect works, the server browser might rely on different discovery mechanisms or require additional ports to be open. Double-check all relevant firewall rules and port forwarding.

Server Browser Registration: Some game servers need to actively register themselves with a master server list for them to appear in the in-game browser. Ensure your server configuration allows for this. There might be a specific command-line argument or configuration setting (e.g., sv_lan 0 for public visibility, though Northgard specific settings may vary) that needs to be enabled.

Password Protection: If your server is password-protected, it might not appear in the public browser or might only appear for players who explicitly search for it and know the password.

Game Version Mismatch: An outdated server version might not be able to communicate correctly with the master server list or be filtered out by clients running a newer version.

Regional Filters: Players might have regional filters enabled in their game client that exclude your server's location.

Hosting Provider Configuration: If using a host, they might have specific settings or limitations regarding server browser visibility. Consult their documentation or support.

For private lobbies, direct connect using the server's IP address and port is often the most reliable method, bypassing potential server browser issues.

Q5: How can I ensure my Northgard server is secure from unauthorized access or attacks?

A5: Server security is paramount, especially for a continuously running service.

Strong Passwords: Always use strong, unique passwords for your server's administrative accounts, control panel, and the Northgard server itself.

Firewall Rules: Implement strict firewall rules. Allow only necessary ports (e.g., 27015 for Northgard, SSH/RDP for administration) and restrict administrative access to specific IP addresses if possible. Block all other incoming traffic.

Regular Updates: Keep the operating system, Northgard server files, and any server management software updated with the latest security patches.

DDoS Protection: Choose a hosting provider that offers robust DDoS (Distributed Denial of Service) protection. This mitigates attacks that aim to overwhelm your server's network connection.

Disable Unnecessary Services: Turn off any services or applications on the server that are not essential for Northgard operation. Each running service is a potential vulnerability.

Monitoring: Implement monitoring tools to detect unusual activity, such as unauthorized login attempts or excessive resource consumption, which could indicate an attack.

Backups: Regularly back up your server's configuration files and any persistent game data. In the event of a security breach or data corruption, backups allow for quick recovery.

By understanding these technical aspects and implementing the recommended practices, you can maintain a stable, secure, and high-performing Northgard private lobby for your gaming community.