Self-hosting is officially supported
Stunlock documents a V Rising Dedicated Server application in Steam Tools and a separate setup path for running the server executable directly. That makes self-hosting a real option if suitable hardware and network access already exist.
Rent when the world must stay available
For groups that build, farm or progress at different times, an always-on rented server removes one player PC from the critical path and avoids waiting for the host to launch the world.
Private server control has real value
Stunlock notes that private/dedicated server owners control their own rules and administration. That makes a persistent private world useful for groups that want custom settings and predictable access.
Decision rule
- Same schedule + stable host PC → self-host.
- Different schedules → dedicated server.
- No one wants router/admin work → rented hosting.
- Long-running world → value backups and admin access, not just slot count.
Source
Official Stunlock Studios server-hosting guide and server support section. Unofficial guide; no provider paid for this page.