Windrose
Install the Windrose Dedicated Server from Steam Tools, run it once to generate config files, then edit ServerDescription.json and related world settings before restarting the server. Players join using an invite code rather than direct IP in most cases. Make sure the server version matches the game, and allow it through your firewall, networking is usually automatic via Steam, but port forwarding may be needed if connections fail.
This guide walks you through the complete setup process in a simple and reliable way.
Requirements
Before starting, ensure you have:
- Steam installed (or SteamCMD for advanced/VPS setups)
- Windows PC
- Stable internet connection
- Admin permissions on the machine
- Firewall access
- Enough CPU and RAM for hosting a game server. Check out the Windrose Dedicated Server Requirements
Install the Windrose Dedicated Server
- Open Steam
- Go to Library
- In the dropdown filter, select:
- Tools
- Search:
- Windrose Dedicated Server
- Click Install
Default Steam install path
Steam/steamapps/common/Windrose Dedicated Server/
First Launch
Look for one of these files & double click it to run the server
StartServerForeground.batWindroseServer.exe
This initial launch generates essential configuration files automatically, including:
ServerDescription.jsonWorldDescription.json
Edit Server Settings
After first launch, stop the server and edit configs.
ServerDescription.json
Located in:
R5/ServerDescription.json
Common editable fields:
- Server name
- Password (optional)
- Invite code (auto-generated or stored here)
- Server difficulty / preset options
WorldDescription.json (world settings)
Located per world:
R5/Saved/SaveProfiles/.../Worlds/<WorldID>/WorldDescription.json
Used for:
- World state
- Island/world identity
- Save integrity checks
Save changes after editing.
Ports & Firewall
Windrose uses:
- Steam networking + session invite system
- NAT traversal where possible
What this means:
- Many users can connect without port forwarding
- But NAT/ISP/router issues may still require manual configuration
If players cannot connect check if:
- Firewall allows
WindroseServer.exe - Router UPnP enabled
- Direct port forwarding if NAT fails
Restart the Server
- Start the server again after making changes
- All updated settings will now take effect
- Check console logs to confirm successful startup
Joining a Server
- Server generates an invite code
- Host shares it with players
- Players go to:
- Play → Connect to Server
- Enter invite code
No IP required in normal cases
Updating the Server
When the game updates:
- Always update the dedicated server too
- Version mismatch can cause:
- Connection failures
- Invite code errors
- World loading issues
Don't want to go through this manual process? Set up a Windrose server in seconds here!
This usually happens due to firewall blocking, or not restarting the server after configuration changes.
No, you should always stop the server before editing any configuration files. Changes made while the server is running may not be saved or could cause errors. Always restart the server after making edits to apply updates correctly.
Locate the save or world folder inside the server directory and copy it to a safe location. Regular backups are recommended, especially before updates or major configuration changes.
