DriversRecommendedOutdated drivers can make a good PC feel brokenScan driver issues before chasing fixes manually.Scan NowHalloween DealsAmazon USHalloween week deals: useful picks before month-endAmazon US: current deals, useful picks and tech finds.Check DealsPC HealthRecommendedCrashes, freezes, slowdowns? Check your PC nowSpot repairable issues before they interrupt work.Check PC×
VGSOURCES
Get listed

dedicated serversPATCH 2026.10.15

Palworld Server Password Not Working: How to Fix It

By VGSources Team 11 min read

Special offer. See more information about Outbyte and uninstall instructions. Please review EULA and Privacy policy.

If a Palworld dedicated server rejects a password, says no password has been entered, or reports that the password does not match, fix the server configuration first: stop the server, edit the live platform-specific PalWorldSettings.ini, change ServerPassword, save the file, and fully restart the server. Do not edit DefaultPalWorldSettings.ini; it is a template, not the configuration the running server reads.

There is also a Palworld connection bug in which a correctly configured password is not presented or retained by direct connect. After confirming the server settings, use the Community Servers prompt workaround, then connect with the server’s IP address and port.

As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.

Special offer. See more information about Outbyte and uninstall instructions. Please review EULA and Privacy policy.

What the password errors actually mean

Palworld has two different credentials that are easy to confuse. ServerPassword is the password players enter to join. AdminPassword is an administrative credential used for server management. Changing the admin value will not repair a player join attempt.

The error text is not always a reliable diagnosis. A message such as “no password has been entered” can appear when the client failed to open or retain the password field during direct connection, even though the server has a password. “Password is not match” can likewise result from a stale server configuration, a client connection-flow problem, or an incorrect endpoint rather than a typo alone.

#1 Best Overall
Sale
Gaoye Blue Light Blocking Glasses | Anti UV Ray, For Computers & Gaming, Square Frame, Eyewear for Men and Women
  • BLUE LIGHT BLOCKING GLASSES: Our blue light glasses for women boast UV400 protection, blocking harmful blue rays from computer screens. With these bluelight glasses women, you can enjoy gaming, reading, or watching TV with no worries of eye strain.
  • EYE RELIEF: Our blue light glasses are engineered to reduce blurry vision or strain caused by prolonged screen time. These womens blue light glasses aid in better sleep by preventing blue light from disrupting your natural sleep cycle, helping you fall asleep faster and enjoy a more restful night's sleep, making them the perfect christmas present.
  • COMFORTABLE: Crafted from durable material, our trendy blue light glasses for woman or blue light glasses men ensure long-lasting comfort. The high-transmittance lenses accessories, gamer gifts for men, help keep your eyes relaxed. Perfect stocking stuffers, gifts for gamers men, christmas gifts for men, halloween costumes.
  • LIGHTWEIGHT: These clear blue light glasses feature a lightweight frame, meaning they’ll stay comfy for long-term wear. Perfect as blue blockers glasses for women or mens blue light glasses, these non-prescription fake glasses for men can be worn throughout the day. The blue light blocking glasses women feature polycarbonate HD lenses, which are anti-reflective and restore true color.
  • WORRY-FREE PURCHASE: If you experience any issues, our support team is ready to assist you quickly. These are the perfect costume glasses for cosplay dressing up.

Palworld’s password handling is known to be inconsistent. PC Gamer described server passwords as not consistently working, and hosting documentation updated in June 2026 records cases where a locked server works from the community listing but direct connect or the recent-servers screen times out or shows an empty-password error.

First identify how the server is published

This procedure is for a dedicated server, whether you run it yourself or through a hosting panel. Palworld uses different join flows:

Special offer. See more information about Outbyte and uninstall instructions. Please review EULA and Privacy policy.
Server type How players find it What to verify
Dedicated server Enter the server IP address and port in the direct-connect field. Both the reachable IP and the listening port must be correct.
Community server Select the server from the Community Servers list. The listing must be visible and, for a locked server, the client must receive a password prompt.

The official connection instructions describe IP-plus-port entry for dedicated servers and list selection for community servers. A password workaround may use the community list temporarily, but it does not change the server’s actual address or credential.

Fix the live configuration file

1. Stop the server completely

Use the hosting panel’s Stop control, close the server process, or stop the service you use to launch it. Do not edit the file while PalServer.exe or PalServer.sh is still running. A live process can continue using the old values and may overwrite an edit when it shuts down.

2. Open the platform-specific saved file

Find the PalWorldSettings.ini file under the server’s saved configuration directory:

Platform Live file path Typical launcher documented by Palworld
Windows Pal/Saved/Config/WindowsServer/PalWorldSettings.ini PalServer.exe
Linux Pal/Saved/Config/LinuxServer/PalWorldSettings.ini PalServer.sh

The path is relative to the dedicated-server installation directory. A managed host may expose the same file through a file manager instead of a normal desktop path. If you see both a saved platform folder and a default settings file, use the saved platform folder.

Special offer. See more information about Outbyte and uninstall instructions. Please review EULA and Privacy policy.

Do not change DefaultPalWorldSettings.ini. A marked-answer Steam discussion specifically warns that editing that default file does not alter the running server.

Rank #2
Windex Gaming Cleaning Wipes, Pre-Moistened Wipes to Instantly Clean all Gaming Gear and Electronics, Resealable Packaging for a Freshness Lock, 25 count (Pack of 1)
  • WINDEX GAMING WIPES: effortlessly clean all your gaming gear and gaming electronics in one easy step with our new Windex Gaming Wipes
  • AMMONIA FREE: our ammonia-free formula is safe to use on all of your favorite gaming equipment like consoles, headsets, controllers, screens, keyboards, and more
  • PRE-MOISTENED WIPES: each wipe instantly removes dust, dirt, and stubborn smudges and fingerprints leaving a streak-free shine
  • ANTI-STATIC: great for cleaning and wiping down your gaming gear and electronics leaving behind no visible residue
  • COMPACT RESEALABLE PACKAGE: store your pack of Windex Gaming Wipes anywhere in your home for whenever a quick and easy wipedown is needed

3. Change ServerPassword, not AdminPassword

Inside the active settings entry, set the player password in this form:

ServerPassword="your-password"

Use the exact value you intend players to type. Keep AdminPassword as a separate setting for administration. If you are changing both credentials, verify each name before saving so the player password is not accidentally placed in the admin field.

4. Preserve the complete OptionSettings syntax

Palworld commonly stores the settings as one long OptionSettings=(...) line. NoBull Networks’ August 15, 2026 configuration guidance advises keeping that complete line intact when editing by hand. Do not remove commas, quotation marks, parentheses, or unrelated options while changing the password. A malformed line can prevent settings from loading even when the password text itself is correct.

Special offer. See more information about Outbyte and uninstall instructions. Please review EULA and Privacy policy.

Make a backup copy before editing. If the server later fails to start, restore the backup and reapply only the password change carefully.

5. Save, then restart and wait for loading

Save the file while the server is still stopped. Start it again with your normal Windows executable or Linux shell script, then wait until the server has finished loading before attempting to join. A quick stop-and-start followed by an immediate connection attempt can test the old process or a server that is not yet listening.

Use the direct-connect password workaround

If the server starts normally but direct connect says that no password has been entered, use this client-side sequence. It is a workaround for the connection flow; it does not replace correcting the server file.

  1. In Palworld, choose Join Multiplayer Game.
  2. Open Community Servers.
  3. Find a locked server. Your own server may appear there; if it does not, select any locked listing that produces a password prompt.
  4. Enter your own server password in the prompt.
  5. Choose OK.
  6. When Palworld asks whether to connect, choose NO rather than proceeding to that listing.
  7. Return to the direct-connect field.
  8. Enter your server endpoint as IP:port, using the reachable address and listening port supplied by your host or network setup.
  9. Submit the connection and enter the same player password if Palworld asks again.

PC Gamer documented this sequence as a way to prime the password field before using IP-and-port direct connect. The prompt-seeding step is especially useful when the direct-connect screen opens without a usable password box or immediately reports an empty password.

Special offer. See more information about Outbyte and uninstall instructions. Please review EULA and Privacy policy.
Rank #3
Sale
LISEN Cell Phone Stand Phone Holder for Desk, Office Decor Gadgets for Men | Office Gifts for Women, iPhone Stand, Gadgets for Men, Office Decor, Gaming Desk Accessories for Samsung Fold 8, Switch, iPad
  • Ergonomic & Adjustable Design: Fight "text neck" and improve your posture. Designed for comfort, it offers an adjustable height (7.1in-8.5in) (1.4in adjustable range) and angle (5°-85°) Please note: cell phone stand is only 9 inches tall—the length of a standard pencil
  • Without blocking subtitles Perfect for office desk Tiktok Face Time Zoom video—this is the ultimate kitchen desk essential for phones! Perfect viewing experience while reducing neck back strain, A must-have for gamers streamers desk, and anyone who values both style and support!
  • Sleek & Stable Design fits Otterbox Case: Say goodbye to bent cables, tangles, and tip-overs! LISEN’s stylish adjustable desk phone holder features a built-in charging hole and smart cable management, keeping your phone secure and your workspace clutter-free cool gadgets for men
  • ANTI-SLIP DESIGN free hands: The under 10.00 items easy gadgets back and the bottom of this kitchen essentials for women are fully covered by anti-skid silicone, which LISEN stand up desk decor can provide maximum protection device from any scratches and slides
  • Your Perfect Viewing Companion:If your product arrives damaged or breaks within 365 days, reach out to LISEN for a quick and hassle-free solution. Struggling with assembly, like tightening the screw? We’ve got your back! Your experience matters to us. (Product including: phone Holder stand*1, screw*1, hexagon screwdriver*1, specification*1)

Check the endpoint before changing anything else

A valid password cannot compensate for an incorrect address. Confirm all of the following with the server operator or hosting panel:

  • The IP address is the server’s current reachable address, not a local address that only works from the host machine.
  • The port is the dedicated server’s actual listening port and is entered alongside the IP.
  • You are not copying a web-panel port, query port, or another game instance’s port.
  • The server has finished starting and is still running when you attempt the join.
  • If the server is behind a router, the required game port is forwarded to the machine running Palworld.

The official connection flow requires both an IP address and a port for a dedicated server. If either value is wrong, the resulting timeout can look like a password failure because the client never reaches the authentication step.

Troubleshoot by the exact symptom

Symptom Most likely cause Action
Password change has no effect The default template or the wrong platform directory was edited, or the server was not fully restarted. Stop the server, edit the saved WindowsServer or LinuxServer file, save, and restart.
“No password has been entered” during direct connect Palworld did not retain or display the password field. Run the Community Servers prompt workaround, then retry IP:port direct connect.
“Password is not match” The player is using a different value, or the server loaded an older setting. Copy the exact ServerPassword value, verify the active file, and restart before trying again.
Admin login works but players cannot join AdminPassword was changed instead of ServerPassword. Set the player credential in ServerPassword; leave the admin credential separate.
Server disappears or will not start after editing The OptionSettings=(...) syntax was damaged. Restore the backup or original complete line, then re-edit only the quoted password value.
Connection times out after entering a password Wrong IP or port, server still loading, or direct-connect limitation. Confirm the endpoint and server status, then try the community-list flow before direct connect.

Windows and Linux editing details

Windows dedicated server

After stopping the Windows server process, navigate from the dedicated-server installation directory to Pal/Saved/Config/WindowsServer/. Open PalWorldSettings.ini in a plain-text editor, locate ServerPassword within the existing OptionSettings entry, and change only its quoted value. Save, close the editor, and launch PalServer.exe using your normal startup method.

If Windows shows multiple Palworld installations, identify the folder from the shortcut, SteamCMD deployment location, or hosting panel that actually launches the server. Editing a second copy leaves the running instance unchanged.

Special offer. See more information about Outbyte and uninstall instructions. Please review EULA and Privacy policy.

Linux dedicated server

Stop the Linux process first, then open Pal/Saved/Config/LinuxServer/PalWorldSettings.ini. NoBull Networks’ guidance, updated August 15, 2026, emphasizes making hand edits with the server stopped and preserving the complete OptionSettings=(...) line. Save the file and start the server with PalServer.sh through your established service or shell workflow.

Linux file names and directories are case-sensitive. A path that differs in capitalization from LinuxServer or PalWorldSettings.ini may be a different file entirely.

When a hosting panel manages the file

A managed host may hide the installation path behind a configuration editor. The underlying checks remain the same:

Rank #4
Ledagic IC+RGBW USB Powered Led Light Bar with App & Remote Control, 2 Pack
  • Easy Installation: Our gaming lights have been designed to enhance your entertainment experience. Simply position the led light bar next to your TV or game console to create a game room environment with ease. They come with USB power and a 60 inch cord for direct mounting and mobility
  • Audio Syncing & Extensive Mode: The built-in high-sensitivity music sensor allows you to sync the TV led lights to your favorite music. Lights react and move to the beat of music, film and game audio, creating an incredible immersive sound and light experience – and all without the need for an additional hub. You can choose from 64+ patterns, including strobe, illusion, jump, energy, gradient, running, chasing, fluttering mode etc. Each mode can be applied to different scenes
  • 64+ Chasing IC+RGB & W Effect: The independent control design of IC+RGB and white all-in-one multifunctional rgbw led bar lights monitor backlight allows you to easily switch the led lights for desk between IC+RGB and white to enjoy a variety of lighting effects, you can choose white lighting mode with high brightness for better illumination when working, etc. Choose IC+RGB lighting mode when you need to create an entertaining atmosphere for the light show, 16 million colours of Color changing rgb light bar let you dance to the beat and create a dynamic party atmosphere
  • Dynamic and Dimmable Lights: 1%-full brightness free brightness adjustment gives you the flexibility to adjust dimmable led light bar for room decorations or a variety of occasions
  • USB Powered: USB light bars for room can be powered by powernank, usb charger, TV, Monitor, laptop PC mainframe, making behind TV led lighting bar easy to install in any location.TV led lights are powered by the TV usb interface / PC mainframe, can be turned on/off synchronously with TV / PC
  1. Use the panel’s stop action and wait for the process to report stopped.
  2. Open the file identified as the live Palworld settings file, not a default or template file.
  3. Set the player field to ServerPassword.
  4. Keep the full OptionSettings=(...) structure and save.
  5. Start the server and wait for it to become ready.
  6. Use the panel’s displayed game IP and port for direct connect.

If a panel offers separate boxes for “server password” and “admin password,” choose the server-password field for player access. If a panel regenerates the file on every restart, make the change in the panel’s persistent settings rather than editing a temporary copy.

Special offer. See more information about Outbyte and uninstall instructions. Please review EULA and Privacy policy.

Choose the right remedy for the failure

Remedy Best use Limitation
Correct the saved configuration The password is wrong, unchanged, or loaded from the wrong file. Requires stopping the process, preserving syntax, and restarting.
Community-list prompt workaround Direct connect has no password field or reports an empty password. It works around the client flow; it does not repair a bad server setting.
Endpoint verification The connection times out or never reaches authentication. It cannot fix a genuinely incorrect password.
Managed hosting controls You want a persistent editor, restart controls, and displayed address and port. You still must verify the host’s current Palworld support and settings behavior.

Self-hosting through SteamCMD or the official dedicated-server deployment gives you control over the Windows executable or Linux shell script, configuration, updates, restarts, and network exposure. It also means you are responsible for every one of those tasks. A managed host can put those operations behind a panel, but a panel may regenerate configuration files or expose separate server and admin password fields, so always confirm which setting is persistent.

Common pitfalls that look like password failures

  • Editing DefaultPalWorldSettings.ini instead of the saved platform folder.
  • Changing AdminPassword because its name appears near the player setting.
  • Leaving the server process running while saving the file.
  • Starting a different Palworld installation than the one whose file was edited.
  • Breaking a comma, quote, parenthesis, or other part of the single OptionSettings=(...) line.
  • Testing before the restart has completed and the server is listening.
  • Using a local or stale IP address, a web-panel port, or a query port instead of the game endpoint.
  • On Linux, changing capitalization in the directory or file name.
  • Editing a temporary panel copy when the host rewrites settings from persistent panel values.
  • Repeating password changes when the actual problem is the direct-connect prompt or network endpoint.

Security and operational checks

Use a password that is not reused for your Steam account, hosting panel, or administrator login. Avoid publishing the player password in a public server name or chat message. Share the endpoint and password through a private channel, and change the value if it becomes public.

Keep a backup of the working settings file before updates or major configuration changes. Palworld dedicated servers installed through SteamCMD or another self-managed deployment require you to maintain the executable, updates, restarts, configuration, and network exposure yourself. A managed service can move those tasks into a control panel, but you still need to verify that its current Palworld version and password controls match your server.

Special offer. See more information about Outbyte and uninstall instructions. Please review EULA and Privacy policy.
Independent reader supportYour contribution helps us test, update, and keep practical guides available for everyone.Support on Ko-Fi

A clean test sequence

Once the file has been corrected, test in an order that separates configuration problems from client-flow problems:

  1. Confirm the server is stopped while the file is edited.
  2. Confirm the active platform path and the ServerPassword field.
  3. Save without altering the rest of the OptionSettings line.
  4. Restart and wait for the server to finish loading.
  5. From a client outside the host machine’s local network, try direct connect with the correct IP:port.
  6. If the password field is missing or an empty-password message appears, perform the Community Servers prompt workaround.
  7. If the attempt still times out, recheck the endpoint and port rather than repeatedly changing the password.

This order avoids the most common false fixes: editing a template, testing before a restart completes, entering the admin credential, or diagnosing a network timeout as a bad password.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why is my Palworld server password not working after I changed it?

The running server may still be using the old value. Stop the server, edit the saved platform-specific PalWorldSettings.ini, change ServerPassword, save without damaging the OptionSettings=(...) line, and fully restart before testing.

Best Value
Sale
HUANUO FlowLift™ Dual Monitor Stand, Fully Adjustable Gaming Monitor Desk Mount for 13–32″ Computer Screens, Full Motion VESA 75x75/100x100 with C-Clamp & Grommet Base, Each Arm Holds 4.4 to 19.8 lbs
  • Compatible with Wide Screens - To ensure compatibility with the dual monitor mount, your each monitor must meet three conditions at the same time: First, computer screens size range: 13 to 32 inches. Second, screen weight range: 4.4 to 19.8 lbs. Third, the back of the monitor screen must have VESA mounting holes with a pitch of 75x75mm or 100x100mm.
  • Regarding the compatibility with desks - Your desk must meet three conditions at the same time: First, desk material: Only wooden desks are recommended, plastic or glass desks cannot be used. Second, desk thickness range: 0.59" - 3.54". Third, the bottom of the desk should not have any cross beams or panels, as this will interfere with installation. We recommend carefully checking that your desk and monitors meets all above conditions before purchasing.
  • Dual C-Clamp Hold - Worried your dual monitors might wobble or slip? Our upgraded base uses a larger platform plus a dual C-clamp structure to lock the dual monitor arm firmly to your desk. Each arm safely keeps your screens steady while you type, click and game—no shaking, no sliding, just a clean and secure setup you can trust every day. It also provides Grommet Mounting installation choice, both options ensure stable and secure fixation for your 0.59" - 3.54" desk.
  • Full-Motion Adjustment For Comfortable View - Pull the screen closer when you’re deep in a spreadsheet, push it back to watch videos, or rotate to portrait for coding — moving everything smoothly with just one hand. The monitor stand offers +85°/-50° tilt, ±90° swivel and 360° rotation. Raise your monitor up to 15.75″ to support a healthy sitting posture. Whether you’re working from home, gaming through the night, or switching between video calls and documents, getting the screens to your natural line of sight helps relieve neck, shoulder and back strain so you can stay focused longer with less fatigue.
  • Keep Your Desk Organized: By lifting both screens off the desktop, this dual monitor stand opens up valuable space for your keyboard, notebook, docking station or a simple, clutter-free work area. Built-in cable management guides wires along the arms, keeping cords out of sight and out of the way. Enjoy a tidy, modern workstation that looks as good as it feels to use.

Where is PalWorldSettings.ini on Windows?

For a Windows dedicated server, the live file is Pal/Saved/Config/WindowsServer/PalWorldSettings.ini, relative to the dedicated-server installation directory. Do not edit DefaultPalWorldSettings.ini.

Free tools Windows power users keep installed

One-click scans. No signup required.

Special offer. See more information about Outbyte and uninstall instructions. Please review EULA and Privacy policy.

Where is PalWorldSettings.ini on Linux?

Use Pal/Saved/Config/LinuxServer/PalWorldSettings.ini. Linux paths are case-sensitive, so capitalization must match exactly. Stop the server before making a hand edit.

What is the difference between ServerPassword and AdminPassword?

ServerPassword controls player access to the server. AdminPassword is a separate administrative credential; changing it will not let ordinary players join.

Why does Palworld say no password has been entered?

This can be a direct-connect problem rather than an empty server setting. Open Join Multiplayer Game, choose Community Servers, select a locked listing, enter your server password, choose OK, then choose NO when asked to connect. Return to direct connect and enter the server’s IP:port.

Why does Palworld say the password is not match?

Verify that the player is entering the exact current ServerPassword, not the admin credential or an older value. Confirm the active file and restart the server before trying again.

What’s actually slowing this PC down?

Pick the symptom - the matching free tool is one click away.

Special offer. See more information about Outbyte and uninstall instructions. Please review EULA and Privacy policy.

How do I join a password-protected dedicated server by IP?

Use the direct-connect field with the server’s reachable IP address and listening port in IP:port format. If the password field is missing or an empty-password error appears, seed it through the Community Servers prompt workaround first.

What should I do if the server times out after I enter the password?

Check that the server has finished loading, the IP is reachable, and the port is the game server’s listening port rather than a web or query port. If those values are correct, try the community-list flow before changing the password again.

Can I edit PalWorldSettings.ini while the server is running?

Do not. Stop the process or use the hosting panel’s Stop control first, then edit and save the file. Restart only after the change is complete so the server loads the new value.

My server will not start after I changed the password. What now?

The long OptionSettings=(...) entry may have been damaged. Restore your backup or the original complete line, then change only the quoted ServerPassword value and restart.

Special offer. See more information about Outbyte and uninstall instructions. Please review EULA and Privacy policy.

The Bottom Line

For a real password change, edit the live platform-specific PalWorldSettings.ini, use ServerPassword, preserve the complete OptionSettings=(...) line, and restart fully. If direct connect still says no password was entered, prime the field through a locked Community Servers listing, then connect with the correct server IP:port.

Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.

dedicated serversmultiplayerPalworldPalWorldSettings.iniserver troubleshooting

Leave a reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Special offer. See more information about Outbyte and uninstall instructions. Please review EULA and Privacy policy.

Recommended PC Tool
Recommended PC Tool
Crashes, No Sound, or Screen Glitches?Free driver scan
Windows Errors? Fix Them Before They SpreadFree repair scan

Two free Windows tools

One Free Minute Could Fix That PC

Before you go - each of these free tools takes about a minute and tackles what quietly slows a Windows PC down.

Special offer. View Outbyte info, uninstall instructions, EULA, and Privacy Policy.