How to Install Terraria Mods to Your Game Server

Terraria is a popular sandbox adventure game that allows players to explore, build, and battle in a procedurally generated 2D world. You might have been playing the game for a while, but trying out Terraria mods will spice up your experience with new content and gameplay mechanics. Terraria mods can add new items, enemies, bosses, and even entire biomes, providing endless variety and challenges.

The Best Game Server Hosts for Terraria: Our Top 3 Picks

User Rating	Recommended For
4.8	Performance	Visit Kamatera
4.6	Affordable Price	Visit Hostinger
4.9	Reliability	Visit Ultahost

From mods like Ark of Light, which adds new items and mechanics, to Tremor, introducing fresh challenges with a variety of new content. In this article, we are going to examine everything you need to find and install Terraria mods to help you optimize and elevate your gameplay.

Note

Learn how to set up and manage your Terraria server to create a customized gaming environment.
Understand the crucial steps for preparing your system requirements, configuring your server, and choosing the right hosting provider.
Discover advanced modding tips to customize and combine multiple mods.
Create a unique gameplay experience by carefully selecting and combining multiple mods.

What to Check and Prepare

Before installing Terraria Mods on your game server, you need to take care of the following prerequisites:

Stable Internet connection: A download speed of at least 5-10 Mbps is recommended to ensure smooth downloading and updates.
Check System Requirement: Verify that your computer system meets or exceeds the recommended specs for running Terraria and its mods.
Compatibility with Game Version: Confirm that the mods are compatible with your current version of Terraria to avoid any conflicts or issues.
Backup Game Files: Make a backup of your game files to prevent any data loss during the mod installation process.

Terraria Modded Server Requirements

Here are the server requirements for running a Terraria Modded Server.

Hard disk Space: A minimum of 500 MB of storage space should be set aside for running Terraria mods. However, having up to 2000 MB of available space will accommodate additional mods and future updates. An SSD is preferred for faster read/write speeds, which can reduce load times and improve the performance of your game server.
Operating Systems: Terraria modded servers support Windows, Linux, and macOS. A minimum of Windows 7 is required, with Windows 10 and 11 recommended. Your Linux system should run on at least Ubuntu 16.04 LTS or higher, while macOS 12 Monterey or higher is needed.
RAM requirements: Please note that the requirements for running your own Terraria server include needing at least 512 MB of RAM for a small game world with few players and no mods. For larger worlds, 2 GB RAM (10 players or more) is required. If more than 20 players are expected, then 4 GB or more RAM is recommended.
CPU and GPU Processor: The CPU handles the game’s logic, including player interactions. You need at least an Intel Core 2 Duo or AMD Athlon X2, while a dual-core 3.0 GHz is recommended.
GPU Processor: The GPU is responsible for rendering graphics and visual effects. For GPU, get NVIDIA GeForce 9800GTX or Radeon HD 2400 XT or better.

Modern integrated graphics from Intel and AMD can handle Terraria without any issues. The game isn’t very demanding graphically since it focuses on 2D gameplay rather than high-end visuals. If your computer meets the basic requirements, you should have a smooth and enjoyable experience playing Terraria.

Here are other necessary software and tools to consider:

.NET Framework: Install the latest version of the .NET framework, as tModLoader relies on .NET 8 runtime.
DirectX: Version 11 of DirectX or use the latest version available.
tModLoader: Essential for managing and loading mods in Terraria.
Text Editors: Use Notepad++ to edit configuration files.
Backup Software: Regular backups can be managed with software like BackupPC or cloud services.

Choosing a Server Hosting Provider or Self-hosting

If you want to play Terraria online with others, you have two options. The Host & Play feature lets you host a game on your device, but the server ends when you quit.

Alternatively, you can run Terraria’s dedicated server software, which remains active as long as the application runs and allows players to join via IP.

While you can host a dedicated server on your home PC, it requires 24/7 operation, increasing electricity costs and requiring maintenance and a stable internet connection.

A simpler alternative is using a hosting provider to manage availability, maintenance, and performance. With a hosting provider, you rent server space on their infrastructure, and they handle maintenance and provide technical support. Your choice of hosting provider and the type of hosting will determine the quality of your server performance.

There are several types of hosting you can use to host a game server:

Dedicated Server Hosting: Offers exclusive server resources, high performance, and full control. It is recommended for large player bases or resource-intensive Terraria mods.
Managed VPS Hosting: Provides a virtual private server with maintenance and support handled by the provider. This setup also provides dedicated resources and greater control than shared hosting can provide.
Unmanaged VPS Hosting: Offers a virtual private server where you handle all maintenance and configurations. This option also provides full root access to customize your server hardware and software to meet your needs.
Cloud Server Hosting: Utilizes cloud infrastructure for scalable resources and flexibility. It provides high performance with low latency due to optimized infrastructure.

Furthermore, hosting on your PC can be cost-effective and offers full control, but it requires a stable internet connection, proper hardware, and the ability to manage technical issues.

Users who prefer to self-host need to have technical knowledge in server management, networking, and troubleshooting. This includes setting up and configuring the server, ensuring security, and maintaining optimal performance.

Without these skills, managing a game server on your own can be challenging and may affect the gameplay experience.

Installing Server Software

This step can be done in two ways: you can install the server software through your hosting provider or directly on your PC. To make the process straightforward, we will use Kamatera’s cloud server to explain the steps if you plan to use a provider. However, you can also check our best gaming server hosting providers at the end of this guide to make another choice.

Using Kamatera’s cloud server setup

Sign up for a Kamatera hosting account.
Create a server that meets Terraria’s requirements by selecting and customizing your server.
Go to My Cloud → Create New Desktop
Select your required specs
Deploy a server instance with the desired operating system.
Access the server via SSH.
On your control panel, select tmodloader from the server type dropdown
Press start to boot your server and ensure the correct files are generated

Setting Up on PC:

Download and install tModLoader on your computer
Install the latest .NET Framework.
Create a new folder for the server files.
Extract tModLoader files into the folder.
Run the tModLoaderServer executable to start the server
Once tModLoader is installed, open Terraria through tModLoader to play modded Terraria.

Configuring Server Settings for Mods

Locate Configuration Files: Find the serverconfig.txt file in the server directory.
Edit Basic Settings: Adjust settings like server port, world size, and difficulty.
Enable Mods: Add desired mod names to the mod list section.
Save and Restart: Save the changes and restart the server to apply the new settings.
Testing: Connect to the server to ensure mods are functioning correctly.

By following these steps, you can set up a Terraria modded server efficiently, whether using a hosting provider or self-hosting on your PC.

For those who still don’t know how to set up a Terraria server, follow our guide to set up a dedicated server for multiplayer.

How to Install Terraria Mods

Now, how do you install Terraria Mods? There is only one way to do this, depending on your preferred OS: via tmodloader. But don’t worry. We will guide you through how to install it on Windows, Linux, or MacOS.

How to Install Terraria Mods on Windows

Launch tmodloader from your steam library
Click on Workshop in the main menu and select Download mods
Browse through the mods or use the search bar in the top right to look for search for your preferred Terraria mods
Select the Download with dependencies option to allow the mod to download necessary files
Enable the mods and restart the game

How to Install Terraria Mods on Linux and macOS

Visit the tModLoader website
Download the Linux or macOS version.
Extract the files to the appropriate Terraria installation directory:
On Linux: ~/.local/share/Steam/steamapps/common/Terraria
OnmacOS:/Users/yourusername/Library/Application Support/Steam/steamapps/common/Terraria
On Linux, open a terminal, navigate to the Terraria directory, and run ./tModLoader.
On macOS, open Terminal, navigate to the Terraria directory, and run ./tModLoader.Launch Terraria.
Go to the Mods menu.
Browse, download, and enable mods.

Verifying Mod Installation

Launch Terraria: Open the game using the tModLoader executable.
Check the Mods Menu: Go to the “Mods” menu in the main menu.
Confirm Enabled Mods: Ensure that the mods you installed are listed and enabled.
Load a World: Start or load a world to see if the mods are functioning as expected.
Verify Mod Functionality: Look for new content, items, or changes introduced by the mods to confirm they are working correctly.

This process ensures that your Terraria mods are properly installed and functioning.

Managing and Updating Mods

Open tModLoader: Launch the tModLoader executable.
Access Manage Mods: From the main menu, select “Mods” and then “Manage Mods”.
Update Mods: Look for any available updates for your mods and install them to ensure you have the latest versions.
Enable or Disable Mods: Toggle the mods you want to use on or off as needed.
Remove Mods: Uninstall mods that you no longer need by selecting them and choosing the remove option.

Where to Find Terraria Mods

The best place to find Terraria mods is through tModLoader. Here’s how you can use it:

Open tModLoader: Launch the tModLoader executable.
Access the Mod Browser: From the main menu, select “Mods” and then “Mod Browser”.
Browse Mods: Search and browse through a vast collection of mods available for download.
Install Mods: Select the mods you want and click the “Download” button to install them directly into your game.

Important

Using tModLoader ensures compatibility and provides an easy way to manage and update your mods. However, you can also search for more Terraria mods on curseforge.

The Best Terraria Mods to Try

Thorium: Adds new content, including over 2,000 items, 11 bosses, and various biomes to enhance the Terraria experience.
Terraria Overhaul: Revamps the game’s mechanics, adding features like seasons, weather, and enhanced combat systems.
Calamity: Introduces a vast amount of content with new bosses, enemies, biomes, and items for more challenging gameplay.
Extensible Inventory: Expands the player’s inventory space, making item management easier and more efficient.
Enchanted Nebula: Adds new magical items, spells, and equipment to enhance the magical aspect of the game.
Ark of Light: Brings new items, mechanics, and challenges to the game, focusing on enhancing overall gameplay.
OP Weapons and Tools: Introduces powerful weapons and tools to the game, making progression faster and easier.
Minecraft Music: Replaces Terraria’s music with tracks from Minecraft for a nostalgic audio experience.
Wing Slot: Adds a dedicated slot for wings, allowing players to equip wings without using accessory slots.
Boss Checklist: Provides a checklist of bosses to track which ones have been defeated and which are still to be challenged.

Advanced Modding Tips

Here are some advanced modding tips that you might find interesting.

Customizing Mods: Modify mods to better suit your personal preferences by tweaking configuration files, changing item stats, or altering textures. This allows you to tailor the gameplay experience to your liking.
Combining Multiple Mods: Create a unique gameplay experience by carefully selecting and combining multiple mods. Ensure compatibility and balance by testing them together and making adjustments as needed.

Final Word

Now, Terraria’s land is yours to shape, defend, and enjoy. Installing Terraria mods via tModLoader is straightforward, as these community creations add new content and challenges, extending your playtime for hundreds of hours.
We’ve covered the essential steps, including the requirements needed to set up a gaming server, how to install mods, and how to manage and update them. Whether you decide to self-host or use a hosting provider, each has its benefits. Self-hosting offers full control but can be demanding, while hosting providers handle maintenance and ensure stability, making them a preferred choice for many.

If you’re looking for the best gaming server hosting provider, our list will help you make informed decisions. Start hosting and customizing your Terraria server today!

Next Steps: What Now?

Understand What Is a Dedicated Server in Gaming
Learn How to Create a Dedicated Server for Terraria
Discover Recommended Hosting Providers for Your Terraria Server
Check out the Top 5 Best Gaming Server Hosting Brands
Get the Latest Game Server Hosting Coupons & Promo Codes