Palworld Dedicated Server vs Community Server: What Is the Difference?
A Palworld community server is simply a dedicated server that is also listed in the in-game server browser. They run the same software and work the same way. The only difference is whether players can find the server in that list, or need its address and port.
This guide explains the two, who needs which, and how to switch between them on ChicagoServers. It was checked on 2026-11-15 against Pocketpair's official server documentation for version 1.0.4. For crossplay details and join errors, see the crossplay and community server guide.
- A dedicated server is joined with an IP address and port. A community server is a dedicated server that is also in the in-game list.
- Pocketpair's documentation says players on Xbox or PS5 need a community server to join.
- On ChicagoServers, turn on List in community servers on the Startup tab to make yours a community server.
- A dedicated server does not need the host's game client open. It supports a large number of players.
- Use a join password if you list the server and do not want strangers.
On this page
The two types
| Dedicated server | Community server | |
|---|---|---|
| What it is | A server that runs the world without a game client, so the host does not need to keep a client open. | A dedicated server that is also registered in the in-game server list. |
| How players join | By entering the IP address and port number. | By finding it in the in-game list, or by address and port. |
| Difference in how it runs | None. | None. The only difference is the listing. |
| Console players | Cannot use it on its own. | Xbox and PS5 players need a community server. |
Which one do you need?
- Friends on PC only: a dedicated server is enough. Share the address and port and set a password. You can keep it unlisted.
- Anyone on Xbox or PS5: make it a community server. Pocketpair says console players need one.
- A public community: list it, give it a clear name and description, and consider the load. See the lag and crash guide.
Crossplay is enabled by default for the Steam version, the Xbox Series and Windows PC Microsoft Store version, the macOS version and the PS5 version.
Make your server a community server on ChicagoServers
- Open Startup
Go to panel.chicagoservers.co, choose your Palworld server and open the Startup tab.
- Turn on listing
Set List in community servers to on, and choose a clear Server name.
- Decide on a password
Leave Server password blank for an open server, or set one to keep it private.
- Save and restart
Click Save startup, then Restart.
To go back to a plain dedicated server, turn listing off, save and restart. The public listing arguments behind this are explained in the launch options guide.
How players join each type
- By address: enter the server's IP address and port, which are shown at the top of your server page. This works on a listed or unlisted server where the platform offers direct entry.
- From the list: search the community server list for the exact server name.
- Consoles: use the community list, since that is the route Pocketpair documents.
Frequently asked questions
What is the difference between a Palworld dedicated server and a community server?
A community server is a dedicated server that is also listed in the in-game server list. They run the same, and the only difference is the listing.
Can Xbox and PS5 players join a Palworld dedicated server?
Pocketpair's documentation says Xbox and PS5 players need a community server, so list your server for console players.
How do I make my Palworld server a community server?
On ChicagoServers, turn on List in community servers on the Startup tab, save and restart.
Do I need to keep Palworld open on my PC to host a dedicated server?
No. A dedicated server runs the world without a game client, so the host does not need to keep one open.
Which platforms have crossplay in Palworld?
Pocketpair lists the Steam version, the Xbox Series and Windows PC Microsoft Store version, the macOS version and the PS5 version as enabled by default.