Skip to main content

​
Managing Private Access: Entry Passwords

Establishing a server-wide join password represents your primary technical defense against unauthorized intrusion and randomized community disruption. This global setting applies to both vanilla and TShock-based instances, requiring every participant to provide a matching security key during the initial network handshake. Correctly configuring this perimeter is essential for hosting private cooperative matches, dedicated community events, or specialized technical testing environments.

Difficulty

Beginner

Time

3 Minutes

​
Technical Configuration Workflow

Follow these steps to define your server’s public security key.
1

Access the File Manager

Log in to the Game Panel and navigate to the Files tab.
2

Open Server Config

Locate and open the serverconfig.txt file situated in your root directory.
3

Define the Password

Locate or add the password= variable. Input your desired alphanumeric string.
  • Example Syntax: password=EmbervaleSecure2026
4

Initialize Security

Save the file and Restart your server via the console. The engine must re-initialize to broadcast the authentication requirement.

​
The Multi-Layered Security Model

Administrators using the TShock Framework must distinguish between the two independent layers of security.
  • Purpose: Restricts access to the entire world database.
  • Enforcement: Triggered the instant a player attempts to connect to the IP and Port.
  • Logic: Handled by the core server binaries.

​
Strategic Community Visibility

If your community goal is to grow a large public player base and appear within the “Public” Terraria server masterlists, we recommend leaving the password= field blank. Statistics indicate that password-protected servers see significantly reduced engagement from randomized survivors. Instead, consider using Graylisting to protect your builds without restricting initial access.

​
Need Extra Help?

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

​
Save on Your Hosting

Ready to get a new server? Use code KB20 at checkout for 20% off your first month!
Last Updated: January 2026 | Terraria: Password protocols active.