How to Host a Server with Mods: A Comprehensive Guide for Devs

Welcome, Devs! If you’re interested in hosting your own server with mods, you’ve come to the right place. We know that the process can be daunting, but with this comprehensive guide, you’ll be up and running in no time. Let’s get started!

Step 1: Choosing a Hosting Provider

The first step in hosting a server with mods is choosing a hosting provider. There are many different providers to choose from, each with their own strengths and weaknesses. Some popular options include:

Hosting Provider	Pros	Cons
Hostinger	Low prices, good customer service	Some plans have limited resources
Bluehost	Good uptime, beginner-friendly	Expensive renewal prices
InMotion Hosting	Good performance, free backups	Expensive plans

Once you’ve chosen a provider, you’ll need to sign up for a plan that meets your needs. Most hosting providers offer a variety of plans with different levels of resources, so make sure to choose one that can handle the number of players and mods you plan to use.

Step 2: Installing and Configuring the Server

After you’ve chosen a hosting provider and signed up for a plan, the next step is to install and configure the server. Here’s a general overview of the process:

1. Download the necessary files for your chosen game and mod(s)
2. Upload the files to your server using FTP (File Transfer Protocol)
3. Configure the server settings (e.g. port number, maximum number of players)
4. Install any necessary server-side mods/plugins
5. Start the server and test that it works

Downloading the Necessary Files

The first step in setting up the server is to download the necessary files. This will usually include the game itself, as well as any mods you plan to use. Make sure to download the appropriate files for your server’s operating system (e.g. Windows, Linux).

Uploading the Files with FTP

Once you’ve downloaded the necessary files, you’ll need to upload them to your server using FTP. This is a method of transferring files over the internet, and it’s typically used for uploading files to web servers. Your hosting provider should provide you with FTP access credentials, which you can use to connect to your server and upload files.

Configuring the Server Settings

After you’ve uploaded the files, you’ll need to configure the server settings. This will usually involve editing a configuration file (e.g. server.properties) to set parameters such as the port number, maximum number of players, and so on.

Installing Server-Side Mods/Plugins

Some mods require server-side installation to work properly. This means that you’ll need to install the mod on the server itself, rather than on each individual client. Make sure to follow the instructions provided by the mod author carefully, as installation methods can vary.

Starting the Server and Testing

Once you’ve completed all of the necessary configuration steps, you can start the server and test that it works. Make sure to test all of the mods you plan to use to ensure that they’re working properly.

Step 3: Managing and Updating the Server

After you’ve set up the server, you’ll need to manage and update it regularly to ensure that it continues to function properly. Here are a few tips:

1. Monitor server performance to ensure that it’s running smoothly
2. Back up the server regularly to prevent data loss
3. Update the server software and mods/plugins as needed
4. Keep an eye on the server logs to identify and address any issues

Frequently Asked Questions

What games can I host with mods?

You can host a variety of games with mods, including Minecraft, ARK: Survival Evolved, Rust, and many others. Make sure to check that the mods you plan to use are compatible with your chosen game.

How many players can I host on my server?

The number of players you can host will depend on the resources available on your hosting plan. Make sure to choose a plan that can handle the number of players you plan to have on your server.

How do I install mods on my server?

The process for installing mods can vary depending on the game and the mod in question. Typically, you’ll need to download the mod files and install them on the server. Make sure to follow the instructions provided by the mod author carefully.

How do I back up my server?

Most hosting providers offer backup services as part of their plans. Make sure to check if this is included in your plan. If not, you can use a tool like FTP to download a copy of the server files to your local machine.

How do I update my server software?

The process for updating your server software will depend on the game and the hosting provider. Typically, you’ll need to download the latest version of the server software and install it on your server. Make sure to follow the instructions provided by the game developer or hosting provider carefully.

How do I update my mods/plugins?

The process for updating mods/plugins can vary depending on the mod and the hosting provider. Typically, you’ll need to download the latest version of the mod/plugin and install it on your server. Make sure to follow the instructions provided by the mod author carefully.

Conclusion

That’s it, Devs! Hosting a server with mods may seem daunting, but with the right tools and knowledge, it can be a rewarding experience. We hope this comprehensive guide has been helpful to you. Good luck, and happy modding!