Set Up a Dedicated Server on a Separate PC (with Mods)

Tags: setup, mods, dedicated-server, hosting

Running the server on a second PC keeps game performance smooth on your main rig. This checklist covers a clean install plus mod deployment.

Install the server files

• Create a non-admin user for the service.
• Use SteamCMD: app_update 294420 validate into a dedicated folder (e.g., C:/7d2d-server or /opt/7d2d-server).
• Copy serverconfig.xml to a custom name and point your start script at it.

Core configuration

• Set a strong telnet password and unique ports (26900–26902 by default).
• Point SaveGameFolder to a path with plenty of SSD space.
• Whitelist your SteamID in serveradmin.xml and keep only trusted admins.

Adding mods

• Drop server-side mods into Mods/ (create it if missing). Keep versions aligned with the client pack.
• Prefab packs go into Data/Prefabs. Validate them before launch to avoid chunk errors.
• After adding mods, clear the GeneratedWorlds/<world>/Region cache only if the mod changes POIs; otherwise keep existing regions.

Starting and updating

• Use a wrapper (batch, PowerShell, or systemd) that restarts the server if it exits.
• Schedule SteamCMD updates during off-hours; announce restarts in-game with a 5-minute countdown.

Moving saves between PCs

• Copy the entire Saves/<world> folder and the Mods directory to keep consistency.
• If ports change, update any firewall/NAT rules and restart.