iTechGuides is reader-supported. When you buy through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. Learn more
Prefer not to run the server on your own PC? Godlike.Host offers hosted Valheim servers with free DDoS protection and up to three free backups a day.
To administer a Valheim dedicated server, add the correct player ID to adminlist.txt, restart the server, and have that player press F5 to open the admin console. Use bannedlist.txt for bans and permittedlist.txt for an allowlist. A non-empty permitted list is a whitelist: every player, including the owner, must be listed or the connection is refused. Dedicated-server admins can manage players and world settings, but Valheim cheat commands such as devcommands, spawn and fly do not work on a dedicated server.
What the three Valheim permission files do
Valheim stores dedicated-server permissions in three plain-text files. Each line contains one player ID. Do not add comments, labels or commas. The server reads these files when it starts, so restart the dedicated server after every edit.
Recommended Free Tools
| File | Purpose | Important behavior |
|---|---|---|
adminlist.txt |
Grants access to the F5 admin console. | Only IDs in this file are treated as admins. An admin can use the server-management commands supported by that build. |
bannedlist.txt |
Blocks listed players from connecting. | Removing an ID and restarting removes that entry from the server’s active ban list. |
permittedlist.txt |
Creates an allowlist (whitelist). | If the file is non-empty, only listed IDs can connect. The owner and every other regular player must be listed too. |
Keep a backup before changing any file. A blank file means no entries; do not assume a blank permitted file has the same effect as a file containing an empty-looking line. Use one real ID per line and remove accidental spaces or extra text.
How to make someone an admin
- Stop or pause the server safely. Editing while the service is writing its permission files can be overwritten when it shuts down. Use the host’s stop control or a normal server shutdown.
- Find the active save directory. The correct location is the save directory selected by your dedicated-server configuration. Guides disagree about the default location, and an
adminlist.txtplaced in the server’s installation root may be silently ignored. On Windows, one commonly cited client-side location is%UserProfile%AppDataLocalLowIronGateValheim; do not use it automatically for a dedicated server unless your configuration actually points there. - Open
adminlist.txtas plain text. Create the file if it does not exist. Put the administrator’s exact player ID on its own line. Do not put the player’s display name in the file. - Save with the exact filename. Check that your editor did not append
.txt.txtor convert the file to a rich-text format. - Restart the dedicated server. Permission-file edits are read at startup, not continuously.
- Have the listed player connect and press F5. The admin console is available to a player whose ID is in
adminlist.txt. If nothing happens, verify the ID, location, file encoding and restart before changing commands.
Finding the exact player ID
ID formatting is build-dependent, and published guides do not agree. The official guide, as represented in a search snippet, describes a case-sensitive value in the form [Platform]_[User ID], found in the server log or the in-game F2 panel, and says a player name is ignored. Several third-party guides instead tell administrators to enter a 17-digit SteamID64. Because those instructions conflict, copy the exact identifier emitted by your server build rather than converting it by hand.
#1 Best Overall
- Read Before You Buy — No Video Output: These adapters support charging and USB 2.0 data transfer, but cannot transmit video signals. Except for standard USB webcams (which use USB data only), they are not compatible with HDMI/DisplayPort cables, video-capable USB-C hubs, or docking stations with video output.
- Convert USB-A Ports to USB-C: Designed to connect USB-C earphones, cables, flash drives, card readers, and other USB-C accessories to standard USB-A ports. Plug-and-play with no drivers or software required.
- Aluminum Alloy Housing: Built with a sturdy aluminum alloy shell that aids in heat dissipation and protects against daily wear and scratches. Designed to maintain a stable and secure connection.
- Compact & Travel-Friendly: The ultra-compact design allows the adapter to stay plugged into your device without blocking adjacent ports or adding bulk, reducing wear and tear on your original USB ports.
- 12-Month Warranty: Backed by a 12-month manufacturer warranty for peace of mind. Designed to meet strict quality control standards for reliable everyday performance.
- Ask the player to join while you watch the dedicated-server log, then copy the ID exactly as printed.
- Check the player’s F2 panel when the build exposes the identifier there.
- Preserve capitalization, punctuation and the platform prefix shown by the log.
- Use the same format in
adminlist.txt,bannedlist.txtandpermittedlist.txt.
One host claims a later 1.0.12 build accepts older Steam_-style IDs, but that behavior was not confirmed against Iron Gate patch notes. Treat it as a compatibility possibility, not a rule; the log from your own server is the authority.
How to ban, unban and inspect players
Ban a player
With the F5 console open, use the build’s ban command and provide the target identifier in the format that build accepts. Then verify the entry in bannedlist.txt or with the banned command. If the command reports an unknown player, the ID may be in the wrong format or the player may not be currently visible to the server.
PC Slower Than It Used to Be?
A free scan shows the junk files, broken settings and background clutter dragging Windows down - then fixes them in one click.Free scan · Windows 10 & 11Crashes, No Sound, or Screen Glitches?
Random freezes, missing sound and display glitches usually trace back to one bad driver. Find and replace yours safely.Free scan · under a minuteRank #2
- 5-in-1 USB-C Hub: Experience comprehensive connectivity featuring a Power Delivery input, two USB-A 2.0 ports, a USB-A 3.0 port, and an HDMI port. (Note: The USB-C power delivery input port is only for connecting an external wall charger to power your laptop and cannot power peripheral devices.)
- 90W Pass-Through Charging: Achieve optimal charging with 90W pass-through power to your laptop, supported by a total input of 100W, with the hub reserving 10W for operational efficiency. (Note: Wall charger not included.)
- Quick Data Transfers: Accelerate your productivity with rapid data transfers using a high-speed 5Gbps USB 3.0 port and two 480Mbps USB 2.0 ports.
- 4K HDMI Display: Enhance your visual experience with a hub capable of delivering 4K resolution at 30Hz in both mirror and extend modes. Please note that this hub is compatible with MacBook (macOS 12 and newer), Windows 10 and 11, ChromeOS, and laptops equipped with DP Alt Mode and Power Delivery. Note: This device is not compatible with Linux.
- What You Get: Anker USB-C Hub (5-in-1, 4K HDMI), welcome guide, 18-month warranty, and our friendly customer service.
Unban a player
Use unban with the matching identifier. If you edit bannedlist.txt manually instead, remove only that player’s line, save the file and restart. A player can remain blocked until the restart even after the text is corrected.
List current bans
The commonly listed banned command displays or checks the active ban list. Running banned is also a practical, though not formally documented, test of whether the F5 console is responding: an administrative response indicates that the player has console access. Do not treat the absence of a response as proof of a ban; confirm the file and server log.
Rank #3
- Sleek 7-in-1 USB-C Hub: Features an HDMI port, two USB-A 3.0 ports, and a USB-C data port, each providing 5Gbps transfer speeds. It also includes a USB-C PD input port for charging up to 100W and dual SD and TF card slots, all in a compact design.
- Flawless 4K@60Hz Video with HDMI: Delivers exceptional clarity and smoothness with its 4K@60Hz HDMI port, making it ideal for high-definition presentations and entertainment. (Note: Only the HDMI port supports video projection; the USB-C port is for data transfer only.)
- Double Up on Efficiency: The two USB-A 3.0 ports and a USB-C port support a fast 5Gbps data rate, significantly boosting your transfer speeds and improving productivity.
- Fast and Reliable 85W Charging: Offers high-capacity, speedy charging for laptops up to 85W, so you spend less time tethered to an outlet and more time being productive.
- What You Get: Anker USB-C Hub (7-in-1), welcome guide, 18-month warranty, and our friendly customer service.
Kick without a permanent ban
kick disconnects a player without adding a permanent ban entry. Supply the target as required by your build, then let the player reconnect after the underlying problem is fixed. A kick is appropriate for a temporary disruption, while ban is for denying future connections.
Commonly listed Valheim dedicated-server admin commands
The following commands are reported by a third-party administration guide, not presented as a guaranteed or complete official 2026 list. Command availability and argument handling can change with patches. If a command returns an unknown-command error, check the server version and its log rather than enabling client cheats.
The Tool Desk
Outbyte Driver Updater FREEScan for outdated or missing drivers - takes under a minuteDriver Scan →Outbyte PC Repair FREEClear out junk files and repair common Windows errorsFree Scan →Rank #4
- Dual Converters, Infinite Potential：Includes 2× USB C male to USB A female adapters and 2× USB A male to USB C female adapters. Perfect for a wide range of uses—tablets with Bluetooth keyboards, expand USB ports on macbook, and more. Two different converters for all your daily needs
- Next-Level 10Gbps & 3A Charging: No more slow 480Mbps, this usb to usb c adapter has a transfer speed of up to 10Gbps, allowing you to do more transferring in less time. This usb adapter fits both USB A and USB C charger, supporting up to 3A fast charging
- Upgraded Exquisite Craftsmanship: With an aluminum alloy housing and metal connector, the usbc to usb adapter is extremely durable and sturdy. Rigorously tested to withstand more than 10,000 times of plugging and unplugging, ensuring long-lasting performance
- Broad Compatible: The usb c to usb adapter widely supports all USB C/ USB A devices like laptops, tablets, cellphones, car chargers, and phone chargers. Such as compatible with MacBook Pro/Air 2023/2022, Thunderbolt 4/3 Devices,Apple MagSafe Watch 9/8/7/SE/Ultra, iPad Pro 2022/2021, Samsung Galaxy S23/S20/S10, and iPhone 17/16/15 Pro. Plug and play
- Please Note: To reach 10Gbps speed, keep the cable under 3.3 ft. For USB A Male to USB C adapters, try flipping the USB C connector. USB C Male to USB A adapters support bidirectional 10Gbps transfer within 3.3 ft
| Command | Use | Notes |
|---|---|---|
kick |
Disconnect a selected player. | Requires a target argument in the syntax accepted by your build; it is not a permanent ban. |
ban |
Add a player to the ban list. | Use the exact player ID format shown by the server. |
unban |
Remove a player from the ban list. | The identifier must match the existing entry. |
banned |
Show or query bans. | Useful for checking that the console is responding; output wording can vary. |
save |
Request a world save. | Allow the command to finish before stopping or restarting the service. |
setworldmodifier |
Change a named world modifier. | Reported examples include setworldmodifier portals casual. |
setworldpreset |
Apply a group of world settings. | Reported presets are normal, casual, easy, hard, hardcore, immersive and hammer. |
resetworldkeys |
Reset world keys. | Use cautiously: the command changes world configuration and may affect how the world behaves after a restart. |
For commands that take a target, modifier or preset, type the command and its arguments exactly as documented for the server build. Avoid guessing at capitalization. After a world-setting command, allow the server to save and record the change before making another configuration edit.
World modifiers and presets
setworldmodifier
The commonly reported modifier categories are combat, deathpenalty, resources, raids and portals. The same guide gives the pattern of a category followed by a setting, for example setworldmodifier portals casual. The accepted setting names are version-sensitive; if a value is rejected, use the values exposed by your build rather than substituting a value from an older guide.
Best Value
- 5-in-1 Connectivity: Equipped with a 4K HDMI port, a 5 Gbps USB-C data port, two 5 Gbps USB-A ports, and a USB C 100W PD-IN port. Note: The USB C 100W PD-IN port supports only charging and does not support data transfer devices such as headphones or speakers.
- Powerful Pass-Through Charging: Supports up to 85W pass-through charging so you can power up your laptop while you use the hub. Note: Pass-through charging requires a charger (not included). Note: To achieve full power for iPad, we recommend using a 45W wall charger.
- Transfer Files in Seconds: Move files to and from your laptop at speeds of up to 5 Gbps via the USB-C and USB-A data ports. Note: The USB C 5Gbps Data port does not support video output.
- HD Display: Connect to the HDMI port to stream or mirror content to an external monitor in resolutions of up to 4K@30Hz. Note: The USB-C ports do not support video output.
- What You Get: Anker 332 USB-C Hub (5-in-1), welcome guide, our worry-free 18-month warranty, and friendly customer service.
setworldpreset
Reported preset names are:
normalcasualeasyhardhardcoreimmersivehammer
A preset can alter several gameplay settings at once. Record the current configuration before applying one, and save the world afterward. Do not assume that a preset can be undone simply by choosing normal; a later preset may not restore every individual setting that was previously customized.
Why friends cannot join: the permitted-list trap
The most common administrative mistake is accidentally turning on whitelist mode. A non-empty permittedlist.txt means the server accepts connections only from IDs in that file. Adding one friend does not merely authorize that friend: it excludes everyone else. The owner can also be locked out if the owner’s own ID is absent.
- Stop the server and open the active
permittedlist.txt. - Confirm that every intended player has one exact ID on its own line, including the owner.
- If you do not want whitelist mode, remove all player entries and leave the file empty rather than listing a single person.
- Save, restart the server and test with an ID that is definitely listed.
Do not confuse a permitted-list failure with a ban. A banned player is denied because of an entry in bannedlist.txt; an unlisted player is denied because whitelist mode is active.
Why adminlist.txt appears not to work
- Wrong directory: the file is in the installation root instead of the configured save directory. Locate the directory that contains the active world and permission files.
- No restart: the server has not reloaded the file. Restart after every change.
- Wrong identifier: a display name, a SteamID64 copied from a different account, or a case change will not match a case-sensitive ID.
- Filename or encoding error: hidden extensions, rich-text formatting or extra characters can make the line unreadable.
- Allowlist lockout: the admin may be listed in
adminlist.txtbut absent from a non-emptypermittedlist.txt, preventing the connection before the admin privilege is relevant. - Client-side expectation: being an admin does not enable cheat commands on a dedicated server. It grants the server-management console, not the full single-player developer command set.
Use a controlled test: stop the server, back up the three files, place one verified ID in adminlist.txt, ensure permittedlist.txt is empty unless you intentionally use a whitelist, restart, connect with that account and press F5. Run banned as a basic console-response check. If the console still does not respond, inspect the startup log for the directory it actually loaded and repeat the ID check from that log.
Dedicated-server limits: why cheats do not work
Commands such as devcommands, spawn, fly and similar cheat or developer commands are not available on a dedicated server, regardless of whether the player is in adminlist.txt. An admin can kick, ban, unban, inspect bans, save and use supported world-setting commands, but cannot turn the dedicated server into a single-player cheat session through the admin console. If your objective is testing or building with developer tools, use the game mode and environment that officially supports those commands instead of trying to bypass the dedicated-server restriction.
Quick Recap
A safe operating checklist
- Back up
adminlist.txt,bannedlist.txtandpermittedlist.txtbefore edits. - Copy IDs from the server log or F2 panel and preserve their exact case and platform format.
- Keep exactly one ID per line and no comments.
- Remember that a non-empty permitted list affects every player, including the owner.
- Restart after each file change.
- Use
savebefore planned restarts or world-setting changes. - Document which world preset or modifier you applied so another administrator can reverse the decision deliberately.
- Expect command names and ID acceptance to change with patches; verify behavior against the running build’s log and current documentation.
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.
