Free Guide to Game Dedicated Servers: Setup, Hosting, and Performance Tips

A Game dedicated server / Bare metal server is a powerful solution for gamers who want full control over their multiplayer experience. Unlike public servers, dedicated servers offer better performance, stability, and customization. Whether you’re hosting a survival game like Valheim or a fast-paced shooter like DayZ, having a private server ensures lower latency, fewer crashes, and tailored gameplay settings.

In this guide, we’ll walk you through setting up dedicated servers for various games, including Abiotic Factor, Enshrouded, Valheim, 7 Days to Die, Palworld, ARK: Survival Evolved, Project Zomboid, and DayZ. We’ll cover system requirements, step-by-step setup, troubleshooting, and hosting recommendations.

Abiotic Factor Dedicated Server

What is an Abiotic Factor Dedicated Server?

An Abiotic Factor dedicated server allows you to host multiplayer sessions with better performance and lower latency.

System Requirements

How to Set Up

1. Download the Dedicated Server Files via SteamCMD.
2. Configure server settings in server.cfg.
3. Open necessary ports (27015-27016 for Steam).
4. Launch the server and test connectivity.

Enshrouded Dedicated Server

Why Use a Dedicated Server?

Enshrouded is a multiplayer RPG that benefits from a dedicated server to reduce lag and improve world persistence.

Setup Guide

• Install SteamCMD.
• Download server files using app_update 123456 validate.
• Configure config.json with server name, slots, and password.
• Forward UDP ports 7777-7780 for connectivity.

Valheim Dedicated Server

How to Set Up a Valheim Server

• Install Valheim Dedicated Server via Steam.
• Edit start_server.sh with custom settings.
• Run the script to start hosting.

Common Issues & Fixes

• Port Forwarding Errors? Ensure ports 2456-2458 are open.
• Server Not Showing Up? Add -public 1 in the startup command.

7 Days to Die Dedicated Server

Hosting a 7DTD Server

1. Download 7DTD Dedicated Server via SteamCMD.
2. Configure serverconfig.xml (change map, difficulty, and slots).
3. Open ports 26900-26902.
4. Launch and test the connection.

Best Hosting Options

• Self-hosted on a VPS
• Game server providers like Nitrado or GTXGaming

Palworld Dedicated Server

Setup Process

• Install the Palworld Dedicated Server via SteamCMD.
• Configure serverconfig.json with your custom settings.
• Open port 8211 for multiplayer connectivity.

Optimization Tips

• Use a dedicated VPS for stability.
• Adjust tick rate for performance balance.

ARK: Survival Evolved Dedicated Server

Key Benefits

• Full admin control
• Mod support
• Higher tick rate for smoother gameplay

Setup Steps

1. Install ARK Server Manager.
2. Configure GameUserSettings.ini.
3. Open ports 7777, 27015.
4. Run the server and connect via Direct IP.

Project Zomboid Dedicated Server

Why Run a Private Server?

A dedicated Project Zomboid server allows for custom mods, whitelists, and better persistence.

How to Set Up

• Install the PZ Dedicated Server package.
• Edit servertest.ini with settings.
• Open ports 16261-16262.
• Run the server and test connectivity.

7DTD Dedicated Server

This section is similar to 7 Days to Die Dedicated Server, but ensure you include variations for search intent (e.g., faster setup, mods, or console commands).

DayZ Dedicated Server Hosting

Choosing a Hosting Provider

• Self-hosted VPS: More control, but requires maintenance.
• Managed Providers: Easier setup but costs more.

Setup Guide

• Download DayZ Server Files.
• Edit serverDZ.cfg for custom rules.
• Open UDP 2302-2305 for connectivity.
• Test by connecting via Direct IP.

Conclusion

Setting up a dedicated game server enhances multiplayer experiences by reducing lag, improving reliability, and allowing full customization. Whether you’re hosting Abiotic Factor, Enshrouded, Valheim, 7 Days to Die, Palworld, ARK: Survival Evolved, Project Zomboid, or DayZ, following the proper setup guide ensures a smooth gaming experience.

If you need better performance and uptime, consider using a VPS or managed hosting service for hassle-free maintenance.

FAQs

Q1: Can I run a game server on a VPS?

Yes! A VPS with at least 4 vCPUs and 8GB RAM is recommended for smooth gameplay.

Q2: Do I need port forwarding?

Yes, most games require specific ports to be open to allow player connections.

Q3: Which is the best hosting provider for game servers?

It depends on the game, but popular options include OVH, Linode, and GTXGaming.