Palworld Linux vs Proton and UE4SS Servers
Learn the difference between standard Palworld Linux hosting and GuavaHost's Proton and UE4SS modded server service.
3 min read · Updated Sep 23, 2026 · By GuavaHost Team
GuavaHost offers standard Palworld servers and an optional Proton and UE4SS installation service.
The correct option depends on whether you plan to use server-side mods.
Standard Palworld Server
Standard Palworld servers run the native Linux dedicated server.
This is recommended for:
- Normal unmodded gameplay
- Crossplay servers
- Existing Palworld worlds
- Better compatibility with standard server updates
- Customers who do not require UE4SS mods
The main configuration folder is:
Pal/Saved/Config/LinuxServer
Proton and UE4SS Server
The Proton setup runs the Windows Palworld dedicated server through Proton and includes the UE4SS mod framework.
This is intended for:
- UE4SS Lua mods
- Windows-only server-side mods
- Some
.pakand LogicMods - Mods that specifically require UE4SS
- Advanced modded Palworld servers
The main configuration folder is:
Pal/Saved/Config/WindowsServer
Important: Current Palworld server-side mod support is intended for the Windows dedicated server. A normal Linux server may not load Windows or UE4SS server mods.
Requesting the Proton and UE4SS Installation
The Proton and UE4SS installation is a separate GuavaHost service.
To request it:
- Purchase the Palworld Proton and UE4SS add-on.
- Open a support ticket.
- Provide the server you want the service installed on.
- Wait for support to confirm that the installation is complete.
Important Installation Conditions
A fresh server is required.
Existing server files may need to be removed or replaced during installation.
Customers should download any important worlds before requesting the service.
Download your world folder from Pal/Saved/SaveGames through the Files tab or SFTP, and keep a separate backup on your computer.
Existing Worlds and Characters
Existing worlds may not transfer cleanly between standard Linux and Proton servers.
Possible issues include:
- The world not loading
- Players being asked to create new characters
- Guild or character ownership changing
- Mods affecting save compatibility
- Different player IDs being assigned
Customers are responsible for transferring or converting their own world and character files.
GuavaHost support cannot perform character-save conversions or guarantee that an existing world will work after changing server types.
Community Server Listing
A Proton server may not always appear correctly in Palworld's Community Servers list.
This means Xbox and PlayStation players may be unable to find it, even if Steam players can connect.
Community-list visibility is not guaranteed when using the Proton and UE4SS service.
Do not switch to Proton if console access is essential unless you accept this limitation.
Mod Support
GuavaHost installs the Proton and UE4SS framework, but does not create or maintain third-party mods.
We cannot guarantee that:
- A particular mod will work
- Two mods will be compatible
- A mod will continue working after an update
- A mod will not damage a save
- Client-side players will meet the mod's requirements
Always create a backup before installing, updating or removing mods.
Which Option Should I Use?
| Requirement | Recommended Server |
|---|---|
| Normal Palworld gameplay | Standard Linux |
| Crossplay is the priority | Standard Linux |
| Existing unmodded world | Standard Linux |
| UE4SS or Windows-only mods | Proton and UE4SS |
| Heavily modded server | Proton and UE4SS |
| Console community listing is essential | Standard Linux |
Related Guides
- How to Install .pak Mods on a Palworld Server
- How to Upload an Existing World to a Palworld Server
- Backups: creating, restoring and scheduling
- palworld
- proton
- ue4ss
- linux
- mods
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