How to Set Up a Satisfactory Dedicated Server in 2025

Why Run a Satisfactory Dedicated Server?

Satisfactory’s factory simulation is deterministic. Every conveyor belt, smelter, and production line runs in real time, even when you are offline. A dedicated server makes this persistent world possible. Your factory keeps operating 24/7, resources accumulate, and everything is ready when you and your friends log back in.

Since the 1.0 launch, Satisfactory’s dedicated server support has become stable and well-documented. Here is how to get one running, whether you self-host or use a managed Satisfactory server.

Hardware Requirements

Satisfactory is more demanding than most game servers because it simulates an entire factory in real time. Requirements scale with factory complexity and player count.

Minimum Requirements (1-4 Players)

• CPU: Quad-core processor with strong single-core performance
• RAM: 6-8 GB
• Storage: 10-20 GB SSD (grows with save file size)
• Network: 10 Mbps upload speed

Recommended Requirements (5+ Players or Large Factories)

• CPU: Six-core processor
• RAM: 16 GB or more
• Storage: 20+ GB on NVMe SSD
• Network: 20 Mbps upload speed

The key bottleneck is RAM and single-core CPU speed. Mega-factories with thousands of machines and long conveyor networks demand significantly more resources. SSD storage is not optional. Save files grow over time, and spinning disks create noticeable lag during auto-saves.

Self-Hosting: Step by Step

Step 1: Install the Server

The Satisfactory dedicated server is available as a free tool through Steam or SteamCMD. It runs on 64-bit Windows and Linux.

Via Steam: Open your Library, enable “Tools” in the filter, and find “Satisfactory Dedicated Server.” Install it like any other game.

Via SteamCMD (for headless Linux servers):

steamcmd +login anonymous +app_update 1690800 validate +quit

App ID 1690800 is the dedicated server. No Steam account with Satisfactory ownership is required.

Step 2: Configure Ports

Satisfactory uses three UDP ports:

Port	Purpose
7777	Game traffic (primary)
15000	Multi-server discovery
15777	Server query

Forward all three as UDP on your router. If using a cloud server or VPS, open these ports in your firewall.

Step 3: Start the Server

On Windows, run FactoryServer.exe from the installation directory. On Linux, run FactoryServer.sh. The server will start and listen for connections.

The first launch creates a default configuration. You can then connect from the game client to complete initial setup.

Step 4: In-Game Server Manager

Satisfactory handles most server configuration through its in-game Server Manager rather than config files. Connect to your server, and you will be prompted to:

1. Claim the server (set an admin password)
2. Name your server
3. Set a player password (optional)
4. Create a new game or upload an existing save

This approach is more user-friendly than editing config files directly, though advanced users can still modify GameUserSettings.ini and ServerSettings.ini for fine-tuning.

Step 5: Upload an Existing Save (Optional)

If you have a single-player world you want to continue on a dedicated server, upload your save file via SFTP or the file manager. Save files are located in the SaveGames directory. After uploading, select the save in the Server Manager to load it.

Managed Hosting: The Simpler Path

Self-hosting requires leaving a machine running 24/7, managing port forwarding, handling updates, and troubleshooting network issues. A managed hosting provider handles all of this.

With Reactor’s Satisfactory hosting, you get:

• Instant setup: Your server is ready within minutes.
• 24/7 uptime: Enterprise hardware with redundant power and networking.
• Automatic saves: Regular backups protect your factory from save corruption.
• Mod support: Install mods through the Satisfactory Mod Manager.
• SFTP access: Upload existing saves and manage files directly.
• Low latency: EU-based servers for smooth multiplayer.

This is the recommended approach for groups that want to play, not manage infrastructure.

Server Optimization Tips

Auto-Save Settings

Satisfactory auto-saves can cause brief hitches on large factories. Set the auto-save interval to 10-15 minutes if you experience lag during saves. On SSD storage, this is rarely an issue.

Factory Complexity

Server performance scales with factory complexity, not just player count. A single player with a mega-base of 5,000+ machines puts more strain on a server than four players with modest factories. If you are planning a large-scale build, allocate extra RAM from the start.

Keep the Server Updated

Satisfactory patches frequently. Keep your server version in sync with the game client. Version mismatches prevent connections. On a managed host, updates are typically handled automatically or with a single click.

Mod Compatibility

If using mods, every player must have the same mods and versions installed. The Satisfactory Mod Manager makes this easier by synchronizing mods during connection. Test mods on a save copy before applying them to your main world.

Get Your Factory Running

A dedicated server is the best way to experience Satisfactory with friends. Your factory never sleeps, performance is consistent, and everyone can drop in whenever they want.

Start a Satisfactory server with Reactor and keep your production lines running around the clock.