Troubleshooting the ‘Dedicated Server Failed to Start’ Error

If you are encountering an error message such as "Dedicated Server Failed to Start - There was some sort of trouble starting the server. Please try again," it indicates an issue that prevents the server from launching. This guide will help you identify and resolve the problem.

What You'll Learn

Common Causes and Solutions

1. Security Software Blocking the Application

   This error frequently occurs because security software or Windows Security blocks the application. This is especially common when attempting to load a world with caves enabled.

   To resolve this, ensure the following Don’t Starve Together executable files are added to your security software’s allowed or trusted program list:

   • \Steam\steamapps\common\Don't Starve Together\bin64\dontstarve_steam_x64.exe

   • \Steam\steamapps\common\Don't Starve Together\bin64\dontstarve_dedicated_server_nullrenderer_x64.exe

   • \Steam\steamapps\common\Don't Starve Together\bin\dontstarve_steam.exe

   • \Steam\steamapps\common\Don't Starve Together\bin\dontstarve_dedicated_server_nullrenderer.exe

2. Controlled Folder Access Restrictions

   If Windows Ransomware Protection is enabled, it might block the game’s ability to access, read, or write files. Follow these steps to address this issue:

   1. Navigate to Start > Settings > Update & Security > Windows Security > Virus & Threat Protection.

   2. Scroll down to Ransomware Protection and click Manage ransomware protection.

   3. Check if Controlled Folder Access is ON.

   4. Click Allow an App through Controlled Folder Accessand select + Add an allowed app.

      • If the game was recently blocked, select Recently Blocked Apps to find and add it.

      • Otherwise, use Browse All Apps to manually locate and add the relevant executable files. These are usually located in your Steam folders:

        • \Steam\steamapps\common\Don't Starve Together\bin64\dontstarve_steam_x64.exe

        • \Steam\steamapps\common\Don't Starve Together\bin64\dontstarve_dedicated_server_nullrenderer_x64.exe

        • \Steam\steamapps\common\Don't Starve Together\bin\dontstarve_steam.exe

        • \Steam\steamapps\common\Don't Starve Together\bin\dontstarve_dedicated_server_nullrenderer.exe

Mod-Related Issues

Mods can also cause the server to fail during initialization. If you have enabled mods, follow these steps:

1. Disable all mods.

2. Restart the dedicated server.

If the server starts successfully after disabling mods, one or more mods were likely causing the issue. Re-enable mods one at a time to identify the problematic mod(s).

Additional Troubleshooting

If the problem persists despite following the steps above, consult our comprehensive troubleshooting guide here.

Additionally, you can report the issue and share your client_log.txt file on the Don’t Starve Together Bug Tracker for further assistance.

Why iDatam’s Dedicated Servers Are Reliable?

At iDatam, our robust infrastructure minimizes common issues like these through optimized configurations and top-tier hardware. With advanced network connectivity and disaster-prevention systems in our data centers across North America and globally, we ensure your server is always ready to go. For gamers, developers, or businesses seeking stability and performance, our dedicated server solutions are a perfect fit.

Explore our dedicated server options to find the right solution for your needs.