How to Host a Project Zomboid Server with Hostinger: A Beginner’s Guide

Setting up a Project Zomboid dedicated server using Hostinger empowers you with control and customization options. In this guide, we’ll show you how to do it effortlessly.

Project Zomboid is a popular game that many players enjoy, and hosting your server can enhance your gaming experience by providing more control and customization. This guide will walk you through setting up a Project Zomboid server using two methods: the Hostinger Game Panel and a manual setup. Both methods are effective, but they vary in complexity. The Hostinger Game Panel is recommended for its simplicity and ease of use, especially for beginners.

Why Host a Project Zomboid Server?

Hosting your Project Zomboid server allows you to add mods, manage player commands, and adjust game settings according to your preferences. You can create a unique gaming environment for you and your friends, and it can also help you enhance your server administration skills.

Prerequisites for Hosting a Project Zomboid Server

Before setting up your server, ensure you have the necessary prerequisites:

A VPS hosting plan from Hostinger.
A Linux operating system, preferably Debian 12.
Hardware with a multi-core processor, at least 8 GB of RAM, and a 100 Mbps internet connection.

The Hostinger KVM 2 VPS hosting plan is ideal for a Project Zomboid server, offering features like automatic backup and Kodee, Hostinger‘s AI assistant.

How to Host a Project Zomboid Server Using <a href=”https://hostinger.com?REFERRALCODE=1CRYPTO99″ rel=”sponsored noopener” target=”_blank”>Hostinger</a> Game Panel

The Hostinger Game Panel provides a graphical interface to set up dedicated servers, manage settings, and add mods without using commands. It’s perfect for beginners and ensures a safer setup process.

Purchase a game hosting plan from Hostinger and complete the initial VPS setup.
Open hPanel, navigate to VPS, and click Manage on your game server.
In the VPS Overview menu, click Manage panel, log in as admin, and create a new instance for Project Zomboid.
Double-click the instance and hit Start to run the server.
Copy the Connection info credentials to access the server from your game client.

To customize settings, navigate to the sidebar → Configuration and adjust options like communications, Discord, or gameplay.

How to Set up a Project Zomboid Dedicated Server Manually

For those who prefer a manual setup, follow these steps on a Debian-based distro.

1. Set up Your VPS

Connect to your VPS using an SSH client like PuTTY or Terminal and log in as root. To minimize risks, create a new superuser account:

Create a new account: adduser pzuser
Grant privileges: usermod -a -G sudo pzuser
Switch to the new user: su pzuser

2. Download and Install SteamCMD

Use SteamCMD to download and configure the server files:

Install dependencies: sudo apt install software-properties-common -y
Add repository: sudo apt-add-repository non-free
Install SteamCMD: sudo dpkg --add-architecture i386

3. Set up the Project Zomboid Server

Configure the server settings in the update_zomboid.txt file:

Create and edit the file: cat >$HOME/update_zomboid.txt <<'EOL'
Set up the server: export PATH=$PATH:/usr/games steamcmd +runscript $HOME/update_zomboid.txt
Open necessary ports with UFW: sudo ufw allow 16261/udp and sudo ufw allow 16262/udp

4. Running Your Server

Use a Terminal multiplexer like tmux to run the server in the background:

Install tmux: sudo apt install tmux -y
Create a new instance: tmux
Start the server: bash start-server.sh

5. Enhance the Project Zomboid Server

Edit the servertest.ini file to improve security and gameplay:

Open the file: sudo nano Zomboid/Server/servertest.ini
Adjust settings like Public, MaxPlayers, DefaultPort, and Password.
Add mods by modifying the Mods and WorkshopItems parameters.

Save changes and restart the server.

If you’re ready to host your own Project Zomboid server, consider choosing Hostinger for reliable and efficient hosting solutions. With Hostinger, you can enjoy easy management and excellent performance for your gaming server.

Conclusion

Hosting a Project Zomboid server gives you control and flexibility to customize gameplay. Whether using the Hostinger Game Panel or setting it up manually, you can create a unique gaming experience. With the right VPS and setup, you’re ready to dive into the world of Project Zomboid hosting.