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

Tags: setup, mods, dedicated-server, hosting

This is a community checklist for running the server on a second PC. For the full, up-to-date walkthrough - SteamCMD install on Windows and Linux, every key serverconfig.xml setting, ports, auto-restart, mods, and version branches - see the canonical 7 Days to Die Dedicated Server Setup Guide.

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.