How to Deal with ‘Server Is Running an Older Version’ in Valheim

Encountering the ‘Server Is Running an Older Version’ error in Valheim can be frustrating, especially when you’re eager to dive into your multiplayer adventures. This guide will help you understand the root causes of this error, provide step-by-step instructions to update your game and server, and offer troubleshooting tips for persistent issues.

Key Takeaways

• The ‘Server Is Running an Older Version’ error typically occurs due to mismatched game versions between the client and the server.
• Regularly updating both the Valheim game client and the dedicated server can prevent most version-related issues.
• If persistent version mismatches occur, clearing cache, verifying game file integrity, or consulting community and official support can help resolve the problem.

Understanding the ‘Server Is Running an Older Version’ Error

When you encounter the ‘Server Is Running an Older Version’ error in Valheim, it can be quite frustrating, especially if you’re eager to jump into the game with friends. This error typically means that the version of the game client you’re using is not compatible with the version running on the server. Ensuring both the game client and server are updated to the same version is crucial for a seamless gaming experience.

Steps to Update Your Valheim Game and Server

Updating the Game Client via Steam

To ensure your Valheim game client is up-to-date, follow these steps:

1. Launch the Steam client on your PC.
2. Navigate to the Library section and locate Valheim.
3. Right-click on Valheim and select Properties.
4. Click on the Local Files tab and then click on Verify Integrity of Game Files.

Steam will now check for any updates and apply them automatically.

Updating the Dedicated Server

If you are running a dedicated server, you need to update it separately. Here’s how:

1. Download SteamCMD, which is compatible with Windows.
2. Extract the contents of the downloaded zip file to your PC.
3. Install SteamCMD by following the on-screen instructions.
4. Use SteamCMD to update the Valheim dedicated server by running the following commands:

login anonymous
force_install_dir <path_to_valheim_server>
app_update 896660 validate
exit

Replace <path_to_valheim_server> with the actual path where your Valheim server is installed.

Verifying Game File Integrity

Sometimes, even after updating, you might face issues due to corrupted files. To verify the integrity of your game files:

1. Open Steam and go to your Library.
2. Right-click on Valheim and select Properties.
3. Navigate to the Local Files tab.
4. Click on Verify Integrity of Game Files.

Steam will scan your game files and replace any corrupted files automatically.

Keeping both your game client and dedicated server updated is crucial for a seamless gaming experience. Regularly check for updates to avoid any compatibility issues.

Troubleshooting Persistent Version Mismatches

Clearing Cache and Temporary Files

One of the first steps in resolving persistent version mismatches is to clear your cache and temporary files. This can often resolve issues where old data is causing conflicts. To do this:

1. Navigate to your Valheim installation directory.
2. Locate and delete any cache or temporary files.
3. Restart your game and server to see if the issue is resolved.

Reinstalling Valheim and Server Files

If clearing the cache doesn’t work, you might need to reinstall both the Valheim game and the server files. This ensures that all files are up-to-date and not corrupted. Follow these steps:

1. Backup your game saves and server data.
2. Uninstall Valheim and the dedicated server from your system.
3. Reinstall the game and server from the official sources.
4. Restore your game saves and server data.
5. Launch the game and server to check if the version mismatch is resolved.

Consulting Community and Official Support

When all else fails, consulting the community and official support can be invaluable. The Valheim community is active and often has solutions for common issues. You can:

• Visit the official Valheim forums and support pages.
• Join Valheim-related Discord servers or Reddit communities.
• Contact official support if the issue persists.

Sometimes, the problem might be related to specific configurations or mods, and the community can provide insights that are not available in official documentation.

By following these steps, you can troubleshoot and resolve most persistent version mismatches, ensuring a smooth gameplay experience.

Conclusion

Dealing with the ‘Server Is Running an Older Version’ error in Valheim can be a straightforward process if approached methodically. Ensuring both the game client and server are updated to the latest version is crucial for seamless multiplayer experiences. Server owners should regularly check for updates and apply them promptly to avoid compatibility issues. Additionally, understanding how to enable developer mode and utilize console commands can be beneficial for troubleshooting and managing servers effectively. By following the outlined steps and utilizing available resources, players and server administrators can minimize disruptions and enjoy a smoother gaming experience in Valheim.