cluster.ini is the main settings file of a Don’t Starve Together dedicated server. It holds the game mode, PvP, server name, password and save options for the whole cluster (overworld and caves). On FREAKHOSTING it is in DoNotStarveTogether/config/server/, and the Game settings page edits it for you. Each shard also has a server.ini with its port and role.
Where are the DST config files?
At the bottom of Game settings you’ll find links to open
cluster.ini, worldgenoverride.lua (Master), cluster_token.txt and dedicated_server_mods_setup.lua as raw files.
cluster.ini settings explained
[GAMEPLAY]
[NETWORK]
[MISC]
[SHARD]
The[SHARD] section links your overworld and caves into one cluster. shard_enabled = true turns this on. Don’t change anything in this section, or the caves can stop working.
server.ini settings explained
Don’t change the ports. They match the ports your server is given.
Should I edit cluster.ini by hand?
Use Game settings where you can. It shows every change before saving and keeps the right format. Some values, such as Server name, Server description, Game mode and Player slots, come from the Startup page and are written intocluster.ini each time the server starts. A hand edit of those keys is replaced at the next start.
If you do edit a file, stop the server first, use the File Manager and make a backup. Never change max_players: your slots come from your hosting plan. For more slots, open a ticket.
Frequently asked questions
Where is cluster.ini on my DST server?
InDoNotStarveTogether/config/server/cluster.ini. You can also open it with the cluster.ini: open the raw file link at the bottom of Game settings.
Why did my change to cluster_name disappear?
The server name comes from Cluster Name on the Startup page and is written intocluster.ini at every start. Change it in Game settings or on Startup instead.
What is cluster_intention in Don’t Starve Together?
It is the playstyle your server shows in the list:cooperative, competitive, social or madness. In the panel it is Server style.
Do I need a separate cluster.ini for the caves?
No. Onecluster.ini covers the whole cluster. The caves only have their own server.ini and worldgenoverride.lua.
Related guides
DST server guide
Every Don’t Starve Together page in one place.
Name and password
Server name, description and password.
World settings
Seasons, resources and monsters.
Install mods
Workshop mods and modoverrides.lua.
File Manager
Edit config files.
Tested by the FREAKHOSTING team on our Game Panel on 3 November 2026 (Don’t Starve Together dedicated server, version 761239). Setting meanings checked against the official Klei dedicated server settings guide. Steps may differ slightly if the game changes.
Need Extra Help?
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Last Updated: November 2026