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The Valheim “incompatible version” error means your game and the server are on different versions, so they can’t talk to each other. Usually one side has updated and the other hasn’t. Restart the server so it updates (with the Auto Update Startup variable on), update your game in Steam, make sure both use the same branch (Beta Branch), and, on modded servers, make sure everyone has the same mod versions.

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Why the version doesn’t match

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How to fix “incompatible version” on your server

1

Update your game

In Steam, check that Valheim has no pending update. Restart Steam if it doesn’t update.
2

Check Auto Update

In the Game Panel, open Startup and check the Auto Update variable. See startup variables.
3

Check the branch

Leave Beta Branch empty for the normal game. Set it (and Beta Password, if one is needed) only if all players use the same test branch.
4

Restart the server

Restart the server so it downloads the update, then try again.

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Incompatible version with mods

Your server runs BepInEx, so mods can cause version errors as well:
  1. BepInEx must suit the game. BepInEx is already on your server. If mods stop loading after a big game update and BepInEx itself needs updating, open a ticket.
  2. Match mod versions. Many mods that players also need refuse players with a different version. Update on the Mods page and have players install the same versions.
  3. Find the mod. Read the console when a player joins. Turn mods off one by one on the Mods page and restart to find the one causing it.
See BepInEx configuration for logs and turning mods off.

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Valheim 1.0 and early access servers

A Valheim 1.0 game can’t join a server still on the last early access build, and the other way round. Iron Gate couldn’t guarantee that mods would work with 1.0, so check that each mod has a 1.0-compatible version.

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Frequently asked questions

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Can I keep my server on an older Valheim version?

Only if every player can also run that version. Most players get updates automatically, so an older server soon locks them out.

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Does crossplay cause incompatible version errors?

It can. Console players get updates through their platform’s store, which can be later than Steam. Wait until everyone has the update.

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Do I lose my world when the server updates?

No. Updates don’t delete worlds. Make a backup before big updates anyway.

Valheim server guide

Every Valheim page in one place.

Mods on Valheim

Install and update mods.

BepInEx configuration

Config, logs and turning mods off.

Restore a backup

Roll back after a bad update.
Tested by the FREAKHOSTING team on our Game Panel on 30 October 2026 (Valheim dedicated server with BepInEx). Version notes checked against the Valheim 1.0 FAQ on 30 October 2026.

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Need Extra Help?

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

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Last Updated: October 2026