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Sandbox / Building Guide

Sons of the Forest

Detailed Sons of the Forest dedicated server setup, config, admin, mods, backups, and troubleshooting guide.

Connect & First Checks

Before editing files

  • Use Multiplayer > Join and search the dedicated server list, or Steam favorites/direct IP if supported.
  • Give players the server password if set.
  • Admins/owners usually require Steam64 IDs in the owner/admin whitelist file.

Files & Folders

Stop server before edits

dedicatedserver.cfgServerName, passwords, ports, max players, save slot, mode/difficulty, and startup options. Verify exact keys against the generated file because dedicated server builds can change.
ownerswhitelist.txtSteam64 IDs with owner/admin access when used by the current dedicated server build.
Saves/DedicatedServerDedicated server save data.
Config/log foldersRuntime logs and generated settings.

Common Settings

High-use values

ServerNameServer list name.
MaxPlayersPlayer cap.
ServerPasswordPrivate player password.
AdminPasswordAdmin access if supported by current build.
SaveSlotSave identity. Changing it loads/creates a different save.
GameMode / DifficultyWorld rules. Changing after creation may have limits.
GamePort / QueryPortPanel-controlled ports. Use assigned values.

Admin Setup

Staff access

  • Add Steam64 ID to ownerswhitelist.txt if the current template/build uses it.
  • Restart after editing owner list.
  • Use admin password/owner features available in the current game build, and verify against the generated config comments.

Mods & Plugins

Install carefully

  • Dedicated modding is limited and loader-dependent. Treat modded servers as advanced/manual.
  • Back up saves before changing loaders or mods.

Backups, Wipes, Rollbacks

Protect player data

  • Back up dedicatedserver.cfg, ownerswhitelist.txt, and Saves/DedicatedServer.
  • For wipe, archive the save slot folder or change SaveSlot after backup.

Troubleshooting

Common tickets

Server not listedCheck query port, full startup, and browser delay.
Owner not workingWrong Steam64 ID or no restart after ownerswhitelist edit.
Wrong save loadedSaveSlot changed or save folder path differs.