How to Update tModLoader Server Version (2025 Guide)

Maintaining a tModLoader server is a rewarding experience for Terraria enthusiasts who want to explore modding within a multiplayer environment. However, like any technical server setup, it requires regular updates to ensure stability, access to new features, and compatibility with the latest client versions. In this 2025 guide, we walk you through every step needed to update your tModLoader server version correctly, while avoiding pitfalls that can break your mods or crash your server.

TL;DR

To update your tModLoader server in 2025, first backup your current server data and mods. Then download the latest server release from the official GitHub repository and replace your old files. Next, verify mod compatibility and test the server locally. Finally, restart your public-facing server and inform your players to update their clients. Always read the changelogs for any breaking changes.

Why Updating Your tModLoader Server Matters

tModLoader is a community-driven project, and it evolves rapidly with improvements in functionality, mod support, and compatibility with the latest Terraria builds. Keeping your server version up to date ensures:

• Security: New versions often patch exploits and server vulnerabilities.
• Stability: Bug fixes reduce the chance of crashes or memory leaks.
• Compatibility: Players running the latest client version can connect without issues.
• New Features: Experiences improve with new hooks for mod developers and improved performance.

Neglecting updates can lead to mod incompatibilities, broken world files, or disgruntled players unable to connect.

Step-by-Step Guide to Updating Your tModLoader Server Version

Below is the full step-by-step tutorial to correctly update your tModLoader server without losing your worlds, settings, or spent effort.

1. Backup Your Server Files

This is the most critical step. Before you change anything, make a full backup of your server. Include:

• “Mod” folder: Contains your downloaded mods.
• “Worlds” folder: Holds the actual game world data.
• “tModLoaderServer” executable and config files: Useful for version rollback if needed.

You can compress them into a ZIP archive for easier storage. Save the archive in a secure location separate from your Terraria directory.

2. Download the Latest tModLoader Server Build

Visit the official tModLoader GitHub repository and navigate to the Releases page. Download the latest version labeled as “Stable” or “Release” matching your system platform (typically Windows x64 or Linux).

Make sure you’re downloading the Dedicated Server build, not the client installer. Extract the files into a new folder to avoid overwriting anything prematurely.

3. Compare Old and New Versions

Before replacing files, open both old and new server folders. Take note of any third-party libraries, .dll injects, or batch files you may have added manually.

Some server admin tools or auto-restart scripts might need to be reconfigured. Backup and migrate these manually to the new server directory if necessary.

4. Replace Server Files

Once you’ve prepared the new version, proceed to update your server by copying the relevant files:

1. Stop your current server instance completely.
2. Replace the core files in the server directory — this includes the executable, .pdb files, and the “Libraries” folder.
3. Do not copy over the “Mods” or “Worlds” folders yet. You’ll migrate those next.

This process ensures you’re not accidentally dragging along outdated core files that may cause build conflicts or crashes.

5. Migrate Mods and Worlds

After updating the core server files, you can now copy your “Mods” and “Worlds” folders from the old directory into the new one.

• Mods: Many community mods will work across updates, but some may require updates from their authors.
• Worlds: These should work as-is, assuming no major compatibility changes were introduced in the new version.

If you are unsure about mod compatibility, check the official mod browser for each mod’s update status.

6. Update Mods via tModLoader Server Console

Once your server is set up with the new version, run it locally to check for mod updates:

1. Launch the tModLoaderServer.exe.
2. Use the server console’s options to run the Mod Browser update checks.
3. Update any mods flagged as outdated.

Make sure no conflicts or errors are shown during the mod loading process. If mods are breaking, disable them temporarily and report the issues to the mod developers.

7. Test the Server Locally

Before bringing your server back online, always run a few local tests:

• Join the server using a client updated with the same tModLoader version.
• Explore the world and verify that mods load properly.
• Use in-game commands to test custom events, bosses, or scripts that may rely on mods.

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8. Restart and Inform Your Community

After normal operation is confirmed from testing, you can restart your public-facing server with confidence. It’s also best to:

• Announce the update to your player base via Discord or your server website.
• Share patch notes or mod changelogs if relevant.
• Include instructions on how to update the tModLoader client for players.

Community communication is key—updated mods or tModLoader versions may include changes that affect gameplay balance, items, or world generation.

Tips for Future Updates

Here are some advanced tips to smooth out the update process in future versions:

• Use a separate test server: Run a mirrored sandbox where you can test updates before applying them live.
• Monitor GitHub releases: Subscribe to the tModLoader repository to receive real-time notifications.
• Check forums and Reddit: Stay aware of community-reported issues or suggested fixes post-update.

What To Do If Something Breaks

If your server crashes or behaves unexpectedly after an update, follow these steps:

1. Revert to your backup taken before the update.
2. Enable debug logs by changing the config settings (serverconfig.txt).
3. Identify faulty mods by disabling all, then enabling them one-by-one.
4. Contact mod developers or consult the Terraria forums for support.

Conclusion

Updating a tModLoader server might seem daunting at first, but with deliberate preparation and a solid backup strategy, you can ensure your Terraria community runs smoothly and securely. A properly updated server setup not only brings compatibility and stability—it also delivers the latest features and content from mod developers, expanding gameplay possibilities in 2025 and beyond.

Whether you’re running a small private community or a large public Terraria server, staying on top of your tModLoader version is non-negotiable when delivering a quality modded multiplayer experience.