This guide covers running a Starbound server on 8Bit Hosting. It covers first connection, configuration, mods, admin, performance, backups and security. Everything is done from the 8Bit Hosting panel.
1. Get your server online
Start the server from the panel and wait for Running. Pick Join Game and enter IP + port 21025. Your IP and port (21025) are shown at the top of the server page.
2. Essential configuration
Open starbound_server.config in the File Manager. The settings you'll touch most are serverName, maxPlayers, serverPassword. Edit, save, then Restart to apply. Always take a backup before large changes.
3. Adding mods
Add Steam Workshop mods or upload .pak files to mods; clients need the same mods. Stop the server, add your files via the File Manager or SFTP, then start up and watch the Console for load messages. Keep everything matched to your server version, mismatches are the #1 cause of join failures.
4. Players & admins
In starbound_server.config, add your account under serverUsers with "admin": true. Only hand admin to people you trust, and use strong passwords for admin features.
5. Performance & optimisation
Remove conflicting mods and pick a higher plan. Watch the CPU/RAM graphs on your server page, if you're regularly near 100%, the simplest fix is moving up a plan. Schedule a daily restart to keep memory clean.
6. Backups & updates
Your important data lives in the storage/universe folder. Use Premium Backups (off-site encrypted backups) before any big change. To update: Updates via Steam on restart; keep mods matched.
7. Security & privacy
Set serverPassword in starbound_server.config. Combine a password/whitelist with a short admin list and regular backups for a safe, stable server.
8. Troubleshooting checklist
- Mod mismatch, share the same mods.
- Can't connect, port 21025 + server started.
- Asset errors, remove conflicting mods.
Need a hand?
Open a support ticket with the error from your Console and our team will help you get sorted.
8Bit Hosting