Configuring Your Palworld Dedicated Server

Configuring Your Palworld Dedicated Server

Almost every rule that governs a Palworld server is stored in one INI file. Editing it correctly is essential for a stable, secure, and enjoyable experience. This guide explains the file location, the unusual single-line format, and the most important settings.

Configuration file location

On Windows, the file is:

Pal/Saved/Config/WindowsServer/PalWorldSettings.ini

On Linux, the file is:

Pal/Saved/Config/LinuxServer/PalWorldSettings.ini

If the file does not exist, copy the contents of DefaultPalWorldSettings.ini into the appropriate path. Always stop the server before editing, then restart after saving. The server only reads the INI at startup, so online changes have no effect until the next restart.

Single-line format

The active configuration must be one continuous line beginning with OptionSettings=( and ending with ). Each option is separated by a comma:

OptionSettings=(ServerName="My Palworld Server",ServerDescription="PvE fun world",AdminPassword="changeMe!",ServerPassword="",PublicIP="",PublicPort=8211,ServerPlayerMaxNum=32,bIsPvP=False,bEnablePlayerToPlayerDamage=False,bEnableDefenseOtherGuildPlayer=False,DeathPenalty=All,ExpRate=1.000000,PalCaptureRate=1.000000,DayTimeSpeedRate=1.000000,NightTimeSpeedRate=1.000000,bIsUseBackupSaveData=True,AutoSaveSpan=30.000000,RESTAPIEnabled=False,RESTAPIPort=8212)

Do not add line breaks or extra spaces inside the OptionSettings block. Some server managers can generate this line for you, but it is still useful to understand the format.

Key settings

ServerName and ServerDescription control what appears in the server browser. Keep the name concise and the description accurate so players know what to expect. AdminPassword is required for in-game admin commands and REST API access. ServerPassword restricts who can join.

PublicIP and PublicPort should match your host's public address when behind NAT. ServerPlayerMaxNum sets the slot cap. Raising it too high can overload modest hardware.

For PvP, set bIsPvP=True, bEnablePlayerToPlayerDamage=True, and bEnableDefenseOtherGuildPlayer=True. Consider adding anti-logout and anti-exploit settings as well.

DeathPenalty controls item and equipment loss. ExpRate and PalCaptureRate speed up or slow down progression. DayTimeSpeedRate and NightTimeSpeedRate adjust the day-night cycle. bIsUseBackupSaveData enables automatic backups, while AutoSaveSpan changes save frequency.

RESTAPIEnabled and RESTAPIPort turn on the REST API for remote management. Only enable this if you understand how to protect the port.

Default values and resets

DefaultPalWorldSettings.ini contains the factory defaults and is a useful reference, but it is not read by the running server. The active file is PalWorldSettings.ini. If you accidentally corrupt it, delete the active file and copy DefaultPalWorldSettings.ini again, then re-apply your custom values.

When you change ServerPlayerMaxNum, make sure your hardware can handle the extra load. Raising the cap without extra RAM or CPU will cause lag and crashes. For PvE, keep bIsPvP=False. For PvP, combine the three damage flags with reasonable base destruction settings to create fair fights.

Backup before changes

Save a copy of the working INI file before editing. A single typo can prevent the server from starting. Once you are comfortable with the format, tuning your server becomes one of the most rewarding parts of hosting. After you restart, check the server log for warnings about unrecognized settings.