Complete Guide to Running a Palworld 1.0 Server with Docker

Updated July 10, 2026 — Palworld reached its full 1.0 release today (on Steam, Xbox, PS5, and Mac). This guide is refreshed for 1.0: the popular thijsvanloef/palworld-server-docker image already supports the new build, and below we cover the higher RAM 1.0 needs and how to update your container.

Quick answer: Docker is still the fastest way to self-host a Palworld 1.0 dedicated server. Install Docker, drop in the docker-compose.yml below, run docker compose up -d, then forward UDP ports 8211 and 27015. For a 1.0 world plan for 16 GB RAM (the game now recommends it even for small servers), and run docker compose pull && docker compose up -d to pull the 1.0 server build.

Imagine you're eager to dive into the immersive world of Palworld, but setting up a dedicated server seems daunting. With the power of Docker, you can effortlessly host your own Palworld server and start exploring this captivating game with friends. Here's a step-by-step guide to help you launch your Palworld server using Docker.

What changed for servers in Palworld 1.0

Palworld left Early Access on July 10, 2026 (it first launched in Early Access on January 19, 2024). A few things matter when you self-host the 1.0 build:

• Higher memory needs: 1.0 worlds are bigger — 70+ new Pals plus the new Sky Islands and World Tree regions — so plan for 16 GB RAM rather than the old 8 GB minimum, especially as your world and bases grow.
• Server clustering: 1.0 can link multiple dedicated-server instances into one connected world, letting you scale past the 32-players-per-instance limit. On Docker, that means running additional linked containers.
• Update your container: After the 1.0 launch, pull the latest image so your server runs the current build (docker compose pull).

Why Use Docker for Palworld Server?

Docker provides a streamlined approach to setting up and managing game servers. It ensures that all necessary tools are contained within the container, eliminating the need for complex installations like SteamCMD. Here are some key advantages:

• Simplicity: Docker simplifies the setup process, requiring minimal technical knowledge.
• Consistency: It ensures a stable and consistent game environment, reducing conflicts.
• Customization: With Docker, you can easily adjust server settings to create a unique gaming experience.

Prerequisites for Setting Up a Palworld Server

Before you begin, ensure you have the following:

• Docker and Docker Compose: Install Docker and Docker Compose to manage your containers effectively.
• A suitable device: You can run a Palworld server on Linux, Windows, or Mac systems. For Palworld 1.0, aim for at least 4 CPU cores, 16 GB RAM, and 8 GB or more of free storage.

Step-by-Step Guide to Setting Up a Palworld Server with Docker

1. Installing Docker and Docker Compose

Step 1: Download and Install Docker
You can install Docker by executing the following command in your terminal:

curl -sSL https://get.docker.com | sh

This will fetch and install Docker on your system.

Step 2: Add Your User to the Docker Group

To manage Docker without needing root privileges, execute:

sudo usermod -aG docker $USER

Ensure you reboot your system after running this command to apply the changes.

2. Preparing the Server Directory

Create a directory to store your Palworld server's files. Use commands like these:

sudo mkdir -p /opt/stacks/palworld/data
sudo chown 1000:1000 /opt/stacks/palworld/data

This sets up a folder and gives ownership to a specific user ID (1000), ensuring seamless access for your Docker container.

3. Configuring Your Docker Compose File

Step 1: Pull the Docker Image and Setup
Download the required Docker image and configure your server settings. For example, use the image by thijsvanloef/palworld-server-docker:

version: "3"
services:
    palworld:
        image: thijsvanloef/palworld-server-docker:latest
        restart: unless-stopped
        container_name: palworld-server
        stop_grace_period: 30s
        ports:
            - 8211:8211/udp
            - 27015:27015/udp
        environment:
            - PUID=1000
            - PGID=1000
            - PORT=8211
            - PLAYERS=32
            - MULTITHREADING=true
            - SERVER_DESCRIPTION="My Palworld 1.0 Docker Server"
            - ADMIN_PASSWORD="myAdminPassword"
        volumes:
            - ./palworld:/palworld/

Adjust the environment variables according to your needs. For Palworld 1.0, PLAYERS=32 uses the full per-instance cap and MULTITHREADING=true helps the server use more than one CPU core.

4. Starting Your Palworld Server

Run your Palworld server using Docker Compose:

docker-compose up -d

This command starts your server in detached mode. Make sure you are in the same directory as your docker-compose.yml file.

Updating to the latest build: whenever Palworld ships a patch (like the 1.0 update), refresh the image and restart:

docker compose pull
docker compose up -d

Port Forwarding and Firewalls

To access your server from outside your local network, you'll need to set up port forwarding:

• Identify Ports: The default ports for a Palworld server are 8211 and 27015. You need to forward these ports (UDP) on your router.
• Assign a Static IP: Ensure your server device has a static IP address to maintain a stable connection.
• Update Firewall Settings: Use commands like netsh advfirewall firewall add rule (on Windows) to allow incoming connections on these ports.

Customizing Your Palworld Server

Docker allows you to customize your server settings with ease:

• RCON Configuration: Use tools like RCON to manage commands directly from the command line.
• Environment Variables: Adjust settings like EXP_RATE, DAY_TIME_SPEED_RATE, and NIGHT_TIME_SPEED_RATE to create a unique gameplay experience.

Hosting Your Server in the Cloud

Running a server on your home PC works, but it ties up your machine, exposes your home IP, and drops offline whenever your computer sleeps. Hosting on a cloud VPS gives you a static IP, 24/7 uptime, and enough RAM for a full 1.0 world. Solutions like LightNode provide affordable, low-latency VPS in 30+ locations with hourly billing — a good fit for a Dockerized Palworld server:

LightNode Hosting Solutions

Using LightNode, you can ensure that your server remains stable and secure, even when you're not actively monitoring it. See our Top 3 Best and Cheap Palworld Server Hosting comparison for plan recommendations.

Conclusion

With this guide, you're all set to embark on your Palworld 1.0 adventure with a custom Dockerized server. Docker simplifies the setup process, allowing you to focus on the fun aspects of the game. Whether you're exploring the new Sky Islands and World Tree or customizing your server for a unique experience, Docker makes it all possible.

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Are you ready to dive into Palworld 1.0 with your friends? If you're excited about hosting your own server but lack the expertise, running it on a managed cloud platform like LightNode can take care of the technical aspects. Feel free to explore the options and make your Palworld experience even more delightful.