Multiplayer

How to Host a Hytale Server

A complete guide to hosting Hytale servers, from local co-op share codes to dedicated Hytale servers and paid hosting options.

Published: January 14, 2026

Welcome to Orbis! If you are diving into the Hytale Early Access, you likely want to share the adventure with friends. Whether you want a quick co-op session or a permanent Hytale world for your community, understanding how to host a Hytale server is essential.

Based on the current Early Access build, there are three primary ways to play Hytale with others. This guide covers everything from the simple “Share Code” system to setting up your own dedicated Hytale server on Windows.

Method 1: The Quickest Way (Local “Share Code”)

Best for: Instant co-op with close friends.

If you don’t want to mess with files or pay for hosting, Hytale has a built-in feature similar to Minecraft’s “Open to LAN,” but it works over the internet.

  1. Load your World: Enter your single-player world.
  2. Open Settings: Press Esc and click on “Online Play”.
  3. Activate Hosting: Check the box that says “Allow other players to join.” You can also set a password here for safety.
  4. Get the Code: Once saved, click the button to copy the “Share Code” to your clipboard.
  5. Join: Have your friends go to the Servers tab on the Main Menu, click “Join via code,” and paste what you sent them.

Critical Security Warning: The Share Code system exposes your IP address directly to the people you invite. Only send this code to people you trust.

Method 2: The “Pro” Way (Self-Hosted Dedicated Server)

Best for: Tech-savvy users who want a free, always-online server.

If you want to know how to host a Hytale server on your own hardware (Windows) that runs even when you aren’t playing, follow these steps.

Step 1: Prerequisites

You must install Java 25. Unlike older games, Hytale requires this specific newer version.

  • Tip: After installing, open your Command Prompt and type java -version to confirm it is running version 25.

Step 2: Get the Server Files

There are two ways to get the files:

  • Option A: Download the official Hytale Server Installer.
  • Option B: If you have the game installed, navigate to your %appdata% folder and find the Hytale directory. Copy the server.zip and asset.zip files into a new folder where you want your server to live.

Step 3: Create the Start Script

  1. Inside your server folder, right-click and create a new Text Document. Name it start.bat.
  2. Open it with Notepad and enter the run command. (This usually points to the assets location).
  3. Save the file and double-click start.bat to run it.

Step 4: Authentication (First Time Only)

When the console launches for the first time, it will ask you to authenticate:

  1. The console will generate a URL. Copy and paste this into your web browser.
  2. Log in to your Hytale account and click “Approve.”
  3. The console should now say “Login was successful”.

Step 5: Port Forwarding

To let friends join from outside your house, you must port forward your router:

  • Port: 5520 (TCP/UDP).
  • Your friends will join using your Public IP address and this port.

Method 3: The Easiest Way (Paid Hosting)

Best for: 24/7 uptime without using your own PC resources.

If you prefer to pay a few dollars to avoid technical setup, several hosts supported Hytale on Day 1.

  • Pine Hosting / Apex Hosting: These providers allow you to select a “Hytale” package, choose your RAM/CPU, and checkout.
  • Setup: Once purchased, you will receive a login for a control panel. You generally just need to set a password and click “Start Server”.
  • Modding: Paid hosts often have one-click integrations for installing mods via CurseForge.

Troubleshooting: “Server Authentication Unavailable”

Many players on launch day reported an error reading “Server Authentication Unavailable” or “Invalid Access Token”.

If you encounter this:

  1. Close the Launcher.
  2. Disconnect your Internet (turn off Wi-Fi or unplug Ethernet).
  3. Relaunch: The game will enter “Offline Mode.”
  4. Play: You can now enter single-player worlds. Note: You cannot host a server or join friends while in Offline Mode. You must wait for the servers to stabilize or for a patch to fix this error to play multiplayer.

Ready to explore Orbis with friends? Whether you choose the quick Share Code or a dedicated Hytale server, Hytale multiplayer is best experienced with a party. Good luck and enjoy your Hytale adventures!