Enshrouded has emerged as a compelling survival crafting game set in a vast voxel-based world. Supporting up to 16 players, it offers an immersive co-op experience where you explore the lost kingdom of Embervale, battling the corrupting fog known as the Shroud.
Important Performance Notice (Updated January 2025)
⚠️ Known Server Performance Issues: Since the November 2024 update, Enshrouded servers have been experiencing significant performance problems that affect all hosting providers. These issues include:
- Random lag spikes and stuttering when 3+ players are online
- Performance degradation in certain map areas regardless of server hardware
- These problems persist even on high-end dedicated servers
Note: These are game engine issues that Keen Games has yet to resolve, not hosting provider problems. No amount of server upgrades will completely eliminate these issues until the developers release a fix.
What Makes Enshrouded Server Hosting Unique?
Enshrouded servers have specific requirements:
- High RAM usage: 8GB minimum, 16GB recommended for 10+ players
- CPU intensive: Voxel-based terrain and building systems demand strong processors
- Large world saves: Can exceed 2GB for developed servers
- Frequent autosaves: To prevent rollbacks from crashes
- Limited customization: No mod support means relying on official updates
Server Configuration Requirements
| Component | Minimum | Recommended | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| CPU | 4 cores @ 3.0GHz | 6+ cores @ 4.0GHz | Single-thread performance crucial |
| RAM | 8GB DDR4 | 16GB DDR4 | Add 1GB per 2 players above 8 |
| Storage | 20GB SSD | 50GB NVMe SSD | World saves grow quickly |
| Network | 100Mbps | 1Gbps | Upload speed critical for smooth play |
Best Enshrouded Server Hosting Providers
We've tested these providers specifically for Enshrouded, evaluating their ability to handle the game's unique demands and current performance challenges. Rankings consider server stability, customer support during issues, and value despite the ongoing game problems.
Game Host Bros
Game Host Bros provides budget-friendly game server hosting for popular games.
Pros:
- Budget-friendly
- Easy setup
- Good for beginners
Cons:
- Limited locations
Nitrado
Nitrado is a leading game server provider with extensive game support and global locations.
Pros:
- Huge game selection
- Global locations
- Professional features
Cons:
- Complex for beginners
- Premium pricing
Shockbyte
Shockbyte offers affordable game server hosting with a focus on Minecraft and other popular games.
Pros:
- Affordable pricing
- Good uptime
- Multiple game support
Cons:
- Basic control panel
- Support can be slow during peak times
Host Havoc
Host Havoc provides premium game hosting with excellent hardware and customer support.
Pros:
- Premium hardware
- Excellent support
- Low latency
Cons:
- Higher pricing
- Limited budget options
G-Portal
G-Portal is a big name in the hosting world with custom game panel, mod manager, and server backup capabilities.
Pros:
- Mod support with built-in manager
- Various server locations
- Good customer support
- Custom control panel
- Good hardware
Cons:
- Limited configuration options
- Support can be slow at times
- Some users report overcrowded servers & instability
BisectHosting
BisectHosting delivers premium Minecraft hosting with excellent performance and support.
Pros:
- Excellent performance
- 24/7 expert support
- Modpack support
Cons:
- Higher pricing
- Mainly Minecraft focused
Streamline Servers
Streamline Servers specializes in game server hosting with optimized hardware and networking for gaming.
Pros:
- Gaming-optimized
- Good performance
- Specialized support
Cons:
- Higher pricing
- Limited general VPS options
EU Game Host
EU Game Host specializes in game server hosting with a focus on European locations and gaming-optimized hardware.
Pros:
- Gaming-optimized
- Good EU coverage
- Specialized support
Cons:
- Limited global locations
- Higher pricing
GTX Gaming
GTX Gaming offers game server hosting with strong UK and EU presence.
Pros:
- Strong EU presence
- Good performance
- Established provider
Cons:
- Limited US locations
- Interface could be modernized
Enshrouded Server Setup Tips
Performance Optimization (Current Issues Considered)
- Restart servers daily to maintain performance
- Limit server to 4 players until performance patch
- Keep server software updated to latest version
- Monitor server resources closely for degradation
- Keep regular backups due to increased crash risk
Essential Server Settings
- Difficulty: Normal or Hard (affects resource gathering)
- PvP: Usually disabled for co-op play
- Building Decay: Often disabled for persistent worlds
- Day/Night Cycle: 30-60 minute cycles typical
- Backup Frequency: Every 15-30 minutes recommended
Server Management Best Practices
- Regular world backups: Every 15-30 minutes
- Active administration: Monitor for griefers and issues
- Clear server rules: Establish building and PvP guidelines
- Community building: Use Discord for coordination
Frequently Asked Questions
Will upgrading my server fix the performance issues?
No. The current performance problems are due to the game's code, not server hardware. Even the most powerful servers experience these issues with 3+ players.
Should I wait to rent a server until the issues are fixed?
If you plan to play with more than 3 people regularly, you might want to wait for Keen Games to patch the performance problems. For smaller groups, the issues are manageable with regular restarts.
How often should I restart my server?
Daily restarts are recommended to maintain optimal performance. Some hosts offer automated restart scheduling.
Can I transfer my world between hosts?
Yes, most providers support world transfers. Backup your world folder and upload it to the new host.
What's the maximum stable player count currently?
While Enshrouded supports 16 players, current performance issues make 4 players the practical limit for smooth gameplay.
Conclusion
Choosing an Enshrouded server host in 2025 requires understanding both the game's potential and its current limitations. While the performance issues since November 2024 are frustrating, the game remains enjoyable with the right expectations and server management.
Current Recommendations:
- For small groups (2-4 players): Any provider listed will work adequately
- For larger groups (5+ players): Expect performance issues regardless of hosting provider
- For maximum players (9-16): Not recommended until performance patches are released
The providers listed above all offer solid infrastructure and support for Enshrouded. Focus on those with:
- Automated restart capabilities
- Responsive customer support
- Flexible billing (in case you need to pause until fixes arrive)
- Good backup systems
Remember, current performance issues are temporary. Keen Games has acknowledged the problems and is working on solutions. When choosing a host, consider their long-term reputation and features beyond just handling the current issues.
For the latest updates on Enshrouded server performance, join the official Discord or check the Steam community forums.
Helpful Resources: