Arma 3 Hosting a Local Server: A Comprehensive Guide for Devs

Welcome Devs, today we will be discussing a topic that is of utmost importance for those who are into gaming and server management – hosting a local server for Arma 3. The process of setting up a server can be a bit complicated, but we will walk you through it step by step. So, buckle up and let’s get started!

What is Arma 3?

Before we dive into the nitty-gritty of setting up a local server, let’s take a quick look at what Arma 3 is all about. It is a military simulation game that involves strategy and tactical shooting. The game is set in an open-world environment, which means that players have the freedom to explore and complete missions at their own pace.

Arma 3 was developed and published by Bohemia Interactive and was released in 2013. The game has a huge following and is known for its realistic gameplay and attention to detail.

What are the Benefits of Hosting a Local Server?

Hosting a local server for Arma 3 has numerous benefits, some of which are:

1. You have complete control over the server settings.
2. You can customize the game to your liking.
3. You can play with friends without any lag or interruptions.
4. You can experiment with different mods and addons.

Setting Up a Local Server for Arma 3

Step 1: Downloading the Dedicated Server Files

The first step in setting up a local server for Arma 3 is to download the dedicated server files from Steam. Here’s how:

1. Open Steam and go to the “Tools” section.
2. Scroll down until you find “Arma 3 Dedicated Server” and click on it.
3. Download and install the files.
4. Once the installation is complete, launch the Arma 3 Dedicated Server application.

Step 2: Configuring the Server Settings

After launching the Arma 3 Dedicated Server application, you will need to configure the server settings. Here’s how:

1. Click on the “Configuration” tab.
2. Scroll down until you find the “Server Name” option and enter a name for your server.
3. Set the maximum number of players that can join your server.
4. Configure other settings such as server password, difficulty level, etc.

Step 3: Port Forwarding

Port forwarding is necessary if you want other players to be able to join your server from outside your local network. Here’s how to do it:

1. Open your router’s admin panel.
2. Find the “Port Forwarding” section.
3. Add a new rule and enter the following details:
   • Service Name: Arma 3 Server
   • Port Range: 2302-2305
   • Protocol: UDP
   • Internal IP Address: Your computer’s local IP address
   • Internal Port Range: 2302-2305
4. Save the settings and restart your router.

FAQs

Q: Can I host an Arma 3 server on my own computer?

A: Yes, you can host a local server on your own computer. However, if you want other players to be able to join your server, you will need to port forward.

Q: Can I host an Arma 3 server for free?

A: Yes, you can host a server for free using services like Hamachi or Evolve.

Q: Do I need a powerful computer to host an Arma 3 server?

A: It is recommended to have a powerful computer with at least 8GB of RAM and a dedicated graphics card to host an Arma 3 server.

Conclusion

Hosting a local server for Arma 3 can be a bit complicated, but with the right guidance, it can be done easily. We hope that this guide has helped you in setting up your own server. If you have any questions, feel free to leave them in the comments section below.