How to Host Your Own Private Server for Project Zomboid

Hello Dev! Are you tired of playing Project Zomboid on overcrowded and unreliable servers? Fear not, because in this article, we will guide you on how to host your very own private server for Project Zomboid. By the end of this guide, you will have complete control over your server, allowing you to customize the game to your liking and play with your friends in a safe and secure environment.

What is Project Zomboid?

Project Zomboid is a popular survival game developed by The Indie Stone. The game is set in a post-apocalyptic world, where the player must scavenge for food, water, and supplies while fending off hordes of zombies. Project Zomboid features both singleplayer and multiplayer modes, making it possible to play with friends and other players around the world.

Why Host Your Own Private Server?

Hosting your own private server for Project Zomboid has many benefits. Firstly, you have complete control over the server, allowing you to customize the game settings to your liking. You can also choose who you want to play with, ensuring that only trusted players are allowed on the server. Additionally, hosting your own server ensures that you have a stable and reliable connection, reducing the chances of lag and other connectivity issues.

Getting Started

Before we get started, make sure that your computer meets the minimum requirements for hosting a server. You will need a computer with at least 4GB of RAM, a stable internet connection, and a copy of Project Zomboid installed. You will also need to download and install the dedicated server software from the Project Zomboid website.

Once you have installed the dedicated server software, open the command prompt and navigate to the directory where the server files are located. Type “projectzomboid-dedicated.bat” to start the server. By default, the server will start on port 16261.

Configuring Your Server

Before you can start playing on your server, you will need to configure the game settings. Open the “servertest_sandboxVars.lua” file located in the “PZServerSettings” folder. This file contains all the game settings that you can customize.

Make sure to save any changes you make to the “servertest_sandboxVars.lua” file before starting the server.

Connecting to Your Server

Now that your server is up and running, you can connect to it by opening Project Zomboid and selecting “Join Server”. Enter your server’s IP address and port number (e.g. 192.168.1.100:16261) and click “Connect”. If everything has been set up correctly, you should be able to connect to your server and start playing.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: How many players can join my server?

A: The number of players that can join your server depends on your internet connection and computer specifications. We recommend a maximum of 10 players for a stable and reliable connection.

Q: Can I change the server settings while the server is running?

A: Yes, you can change the server settings while the server is running by editing the “servertest_sandboxVars.lua” file and saving the changes. The changes will take effect the next time the server restarts.

Q: Can I customize the game world?

A: Yes, you can customize the game world by editing the “servertest_map.lua” file located in the “PZServerSettings” folder. This file contains all the information related to the game world, including the terrain, buildings, and items.

Q: How do I back up my server?

A: To back up your server, simply copy the “PZServer” folder to a safe location. This folder contains all the server files and settings.

Q: Can I use mods on my server?

A: Yes, you can use mods on your server by adding them to the “mods” folder located in the main Project Zomboid directory. Be sure to check the compatibility of the mods with the version of Project Zomboid you are using.

Conclusion

Hosting your own private server for Project Zomboid is a great way to enjoy the game with your friends in a safe and secure environment. By following the steps outlined in this guide, you can set up your very own server in no time. Don’t hesitate to experiment with the game settings and customize the game to your liking. Have fun!