Memory
Measured on a new world with nobody on (version 1.3.0.6): about 1.3 to 1.5 GB. Players, a large explored world and automation add to it, which is why the smallest plan here is 3 GB.
CPU
With nobody on, the server used about 4% of a core in our tests; it simulates the world at 20 ticks a second. Players spread across the map keep more of it active, which is when a second core helps. Pugstorm's default is 8 players, and its own note is that more players need more resources.
Hardware by plan
| Plan | CPU | RAM | Storage | Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 8 Players | 1.5 vCores | 3 GB | 10 GB SSD | $4.49/mo |
| 16 Players | 2 vCores | 4.5 GB | 15 GB SSD | $5.49/mo |
| 32 Players | 2.5 vCores | 5.5 GB | 20 GB SSD | $5.99/mo |
Disk
The install is about 570 MB. A world file starts at around 45 KB and grows as it is explored; backups and mods take the rest.
A display, even on a server
On Linux the server runs on Xvfb, a virtual display, because part of the world generation is drawn on the GPU. No graphics card is needed: a software renderer does it.
Ports
None, if every player is on Steam: they join by Game ID through Steam's relay. For players who join by IP (Epic, Microsoft Store, GOG), the server binds a UDP game port, 27015 by default, and the next one, 27016, for Steam's server query. Both must be reachable.
Frequently asked questions
How much RAM does a Core Keeper server need?
About 1.5 GB on a new world with nobody on, measured. 3 GB is a comfortable minimum for a group of up to 8; bigger groups and big worlds want 4 to 6 GB.
What ports does a Core Keeper server use?
None for Steam players, who join by Game ID. For players who join by IP: the UDP game port (27015 by default) and the one after it (27016).