Host Dedicated Server Project Zomboid – Everything Dev Needs to Know

Welcome Dev, the gaming world is constantly evolving, and hosting dedicated servers for games is becoming increasingly popular. Project Zomboid is one such game that has a large audience, and hosting a dedicated server can enhance your gaming experience substantially. This article will cover everything you need to know about hosting a dedicated server for Project Zomboid.

How to Choose a Dedicated Server Provider

Choosing a dedicated server provider can be a daunting task, as there are numerous providers available in the market. It is imperative to choose a provider that offers robust hardware specifications and reliable network connectivity. Additionally, the provider should offer prompt customer support. The following factors should be considered while choosing a dedicated server provider:

Hardware Specifications

The hardware specifications of the dedicated server play a significant role in its performance. The processor, RAM, and storage capacity are the primary hardware components that determine the server’s performance. For Project Zomboid, it is recommended to have a dedicated server with a quad-core processor, at least 8GB of RAM, and 500GB of storage capacity.

Network Connectivity

Reliable network connectivity is essential for uninterrupted gameplay. The dedicated server should have a high-speed internet connection with low latency and high bandwidth. It is recommended to choose a provider that offers a dedicated port for game servers. Additionally, the data center should be located near the majority of players to reduce latency.

Customer Support

Customer support is vital when it comes to hosting a dedicated server. Any technical issues should be resolved promptly, as downtime can affect the gameplay experience. The provider should offer round-the-clock customer support through phone, email, or live chat. Additionally, the provider should have a comprehensive knowledge base and a community forum where users can seek help.

Pricing

Pricing is a crucial factor when it comes to choosing a dedicated server provider. The pricing should be reasonable and competitive, and there should be no hidden charges. It is recommended to compare the pricing of different providers before making a decision.

Location

The location of the data center is important, as it determines the latency for users playing the game. It is recommended to choose a provider that has servers located in the region where the majority of players are located. This will result in lower latency and a better gaming experience.

Setting Up a Dedicated Server for Project Zomboid

Once you have chosen a dedicated server provider, the next step is to set up the dedicated server for Project Zomboid. The following steps should be followed:

Step 1: Download the Dedicated Server Files

The first step is to download the dedicated server files from the Steam CMD tool. The tool can be downloaded from the official Steam website. Once the tool is installed, open the command prompt and enter the following command:

Command
Description
login anonymous
Logs in to Steam anonymously
force_install_dir C:\pzserver
Creates a directory named pzserver in the C drive and sets it as the installation directory
app_update 380870 validate
Installs the Project Zomboid dedicated server files
exit
Exits the Steam CMD tool

Step 2: Modify the Server Settings

After downloading the server files, the next step is to modify the server settings. The settings can be modified by editing the server.ini file located in the installation directory. The settings that are commonly modified are:

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Setting
Description
serverName
The name of the server
serverPort
The port number of the server. Default is 16261
maxPlayers
The maximum number of players that can join the server. Default is 64
difficulty
The difficulty level of the game. Can be set to Easy, Normal, or Hard
public
Whether the server is listed for public access. Can be set to true or false

Step 3: Start the Server

After modifying the server settings, the next step is to start the server. The server can be started by running the startserver.bat file located in the installation directory. The server will be started, and players can join the server by entering the IP address and port number in the game’s console.

FAQs

1. Can I host a dedicated server on my home computer?

Yes, you can host a dedicated server on your home computer, but it is not recommended. Hosting a server on your home computer can affect your internet connection and result in high latency. It is recommended to host a dedicated server with a reliable provider.

2. Can I modify the game files on a dedicated server?

Yes, you can modify the game files on a dedicated server, but it is not recommended. Modifying the game files can result in compatibility issues and affect the gameplay experience for players. It is recommended to use the default game files.

3. How many players can join a dedicated server?

The maximum number of players that can join a dedicated server is 64, but it can vary depending on the hardware specifications of the server.

4. Can I change the game settings on a dedicated server?

Yes, you can change the game settings on a dedicated server by modifying the server.ini file located in the installation directory.

5. Is it necessary to have a dedicated port for game servers?

No, it is not necessary to have a dedicated port for game servers, but it is recommended. Having a dedicated port can result in better network connectivity and reduced latency.

In conclusion, hosting a dedicated server for Project Zomboid can enhance your gaming experience substantially. Choosing a reliable provider and following the steps mentioned above can result in a smooth and enjoyable gaming experience for players. We hope this article has been informative and helpful to you, Dev. Happy gaming!