Skip to main content
To switch a FREAKHOSTING Satisfactory server to the experimental branch, back it up, open Game settings, set Game branch to Experimental, save and restart with Update the server automatically on, so the server downloads the experimental build. Every player must also switch their game to Experimental. A save made on Experimental cannot be loaded on Stable, so keep a backup of your stable save.

​
Before you start

  • Make a backup. It is your way back to Stable.
  • Make sure every player is willing to switch. Players on Stable can’t join an Experimental server.

​
How to switch the server to Experimental

1

Stop the server

Stop the server.
2

Change Game branch

Open Game settings under GAME SETTINGS. Under Updates and reports, set Game branch to Experimental. The panel warns: “Switching branch needs the server to be reinstalled or updated, and a save from a newer branch cannot be loaded by an older one.”
3

Check automatic updates

Leave Update the server automatically on. The Startup page notes that Automatic Updates and [Repair] Validate Server Files must be set to 1 to switch branches on a server that is already installed.
4

Turn on file validation for one start

On the Startup page, set [Repair] Validate Server Files to 1. It makes the start much slower, so clear it again after the switch.
5

Save and start

Review and save the change, then start the server. Watch the console while SteamCMD downloads the experimental build.

​
How to switch your game to Experimental on Steam

  1. In your Steam library, right-click Satisfactory and choose Properties.
  2. Open the Betas tab and select the experimental branch.
  3. Let Steam update the game, then connect through the Server Manager as usual.

​
How to go back to Stable

Set Game branch back to Stable, validate the files once as above and restart. Then restore the backup you made before the switch, or upload a stable save. Saves made on Experimental will not load on Stable. Switch your game back in Steam’s Betas tab too.

​
Frequently asked questions

​
What is the difference between Stable and Public?

Both run the normal release of the game. Public is the name of that branch on Steam; choose Stable or Public unless you want Experimental.

​
Why can’t my friends join after I switched?

Their game is still on Stable. Everyone must use the same branch and version as the server. See connection problems.

​
Do mods work on Experimental?

Often not. Mods are built for a game version and may stop working until they are updated. See install mods.

​
Can I load my Experimental save on Stable later?

No. A save from a newer branch cannot be loaded by an older one. Keep your stable save or backup.

Satisfactory server guide

Every Satisfactory page in one place.

Server settings explained

Every setting on Game settings.

Save not loading

Branch and version problems with saves.

Startup variables

Validate Server Files and Branch Name.

Backups

Your way back to Stable.
Tested by the FREAKHOSTING team on our Game Panel on 2 November 2026 (Satisfactory 1.2 dedicated server, stable branch). Steps may differ slightly if the game changes.

​
Need Extra Help?

If you encounter any issues, our support team is ready to assist:

​
Save on Your Hosting

Ready to upgrade your hosting? Use code KB20 at checkout for 20% off your first order!
Last Updated: November 2026