Hello Dev, are you interested in hosting your own Unturned server for you and your friends to enjoy? Look no further! In this article, we will guide you through the process of hosting a Unturned server in 2021. Whether you are a beginner or an experienced server host, this article will provide you with all the necessary information you need to get started. Let’s dive in!
1. Understand the Basics of Unturned Server Hosting
Before we get started, let’s take a look at some of the basics of Unturned server hosting. First and foremost, Unturned is a popular survival sandbox game that has been around for several years. The game is available on various platforms, including PC, Mac, and Linux. When it comes to hosting a server, you have two options: hosting a dedicated server or hosting a server on your own computer.
If you choose to host a dedicated server, you will need to rent a server from a hosting provider. This can be a great option if you want to have a stable, reliable server that is available 24/7. On the other hand, if you choose to host a server on your own computer, you will need to have a powerful computer with a stable internet connection. This option is best for those who want to have more control over their server and are willing to put in the time and effort to maintain it.
No matter which option you choose, you will need to have some technical knowledge to get started. You will need to be familiar with port forwarding, server configurations, and basic networking concepts. If you are a beginner, don’t worry! We will guide you through the process step-by-step.
2. Choose a Hosting Provider
If you choose to host a dedicated server, the first step is to choose a hosting provider. There are many hosting providers that offer Unturned server hosting, so it can be difficult to choose the right one. Here are some factors to consider when choosing a hosting provider:
Factor |
Description |
|---|---|
Price |
Choose a provider that fits within your budget. |
Location |
Choose a provider that has servers located in the region where you and your players are located for optimal latency. |
Server Specs |
Choose a provider that offers servers with high-quality hardware and the latest software. |
Support |
Choose a provider that offers fast and helpful customer support. |
Once you have chosen a hosting provider, follow their instructions to set up your dedicated server. This will typically involve selecting the game (Unturned), choosing a server location, and configuring the server settings.
3. Set Up Port Forwarding
If you choose to host a server on your own computer, the first step is to set up port forwarding. Port forwarding is the process of allowing external connections to access your computer through a specific port. In this case, we will need to allow external connections to access your Unturned server through port 27015.
To set up port forwarding, you will need to access your router’s settings. This can typically be done by entering your router’s IP address into your web browser. Once you have accessed your router’s settings, look for the port forwarding section and create a new port forwarding rule for port 27015.
3.1 Testing Your Port Forwarding
Once you have set up port forwarding, it’s a good idea to test it to make sure it’s working correctly. To do this, you can use an online port forwarding tester or ask a friend to connect to your server. If everything is working correctly, your friend should be able to connect to your server using your external IP address and port 27015.
4. Download the Unturned Server Software
Now that you have set up port forwarding, it’s time to download the Unturned server software. You can download the server software for free from the Steam Store or by using SteamCMD.
To download the server software from the Steam Store, simply search for “Unturned Dedicated Server” in the Steam Store and download it. To download the server software using SteamCMD, follow these steps:
- Download and install SteamCMD from the official website.
- Open SteamCMD and type the following command:
login anonymous - Next, type the following command:
app_update 304930 validate - Wait for the download to complete.
5. Configure Your Server Settings
Now that you have downloaded the server software, it’s time to configure your server settings. You can do this by editing the commands.dat file located in the server folder.
Here are some of the most important server settings that you should consider:
Setting |
Description |
|---|---|
ServerName |
Sets the name of your server. |
MaxPlayers |
Sets the maximum number of players allowed on your server. |
Password |
Sets a password for your server. |
Mode |
Sets the game mode for your server. |
Map |
Sets the map for your server. |
Difficulty |
Sets the difficulty level for your server. |
Once you have configured your server settings, save the commands.dat file and start your server using the start.bat file located in the server folder.
5.1 Advanced Server Settings
If you want to further customize your server settings, you can use the ServerConfig.json file located in the server folder. This file contains advanced server settings that allow you to tweak various aspects of your server, such as loot spawn rates, zombie aggression, and more.
6. Spread the Word
Now that your server is up and running, it’s time to spread the word! You can advertise your server on social media platforms, gaming forums, and Unturned server lists. Make sure to provide all the necessary information, such as your server name, IP address, and port number.
6.1 Frequently Asked Questions
Why can’t my friends connect to my server?
If your friends are having trouble connecting to your server, it’s likely due to one of the following reasons:
- Port forwarding is not set up correctly.
- The firewall is blocking external connections.
- The server is not running.
Make sure to double-check your port forwarding settings and firewall rules. Also, make sure that your server is up and running.
How do I update my server?
To update your Unturned server, simply download the latest server software from the Steam Store or using SteamCMD. Then, replace the existing server files with the new ones. Make sure to back up your server files before updating.
How do I manage my server?
You can manage your Unturned server using the in-game console or by using a server management tool such as RocketMod or Uconomy. These tools allow you to perform various actions, such as banning players, kicking players, and changing server settings.
How do I make my server popular?
To make your server popular, you need to provide a great playing experience for your players. This includes having a stable and lag-free server, helpful and friendly staff, and fun and engaging gameplay. You can also advertise your server on social media platforms and gaming forums to attract more players.
How do I monetize my server?
Monetizing your Unturned server is a controversial topic, as it goes against the spirit of the game. However, if you choose to monetize your server, you can do so by offering VIP or donor perks, selling in-game items, or accepting donations. Make sure to provide value to your players and be transparent about your monetization methods.
Conclusion
Hosting a Unturned server can be a fun and rewarding experience. Whether you choose to host a dedicated server or a server on your own computer, make sure to follow the steps outlined in this article to ensure a stable and enjoyable playing experience for you and your players. If you have any further questions, feel free to leave a comment below. Good luck and happy hosting!