UE4 Server Hosting Guide for Devs

Welcome, Dev! If you’re looking to host a UE4 server for your project, then you’ve come to the right place. In this guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know about UE4 server hosting, from the basics to advanced concepts. Let’s get started!

What is UE4 Server Hosting?

Before we get into the nitty-gritty of UE4 server hosting, let’s first understand what it is. Simply put, hosting a UE4 server means running a server that other players can connect to and play your game. This allows you to create multiplayer games and experiences, which is essential for many game developers.

UE4 server hosting can be done in many ways, including through third-party providers or by hosting your own dedicated server. The method you choose will depend on your specific needs and budget.

Why Host Your Own UE4 Server?

While third-party providers are great for convenience and ease of use, hosting your own UE4 server has many benefits. These include:

  • Full control over the server and its settings
  • Lower costs in the long run
  • No reliance on third-party providers
  • Faster response times and lower pings for players

Now that you know what UE4 server hosting is and why you might want to host your own, let’s get into the details of how to do it.

Choosing a Hosting Provider

There are many hosting providers available that offer UE4 hosting services. Some of the most popular ones include:

Provider
Features
Price
Amazon Web Services (AWS)
Scalable, reliable hosting with global data centers
Varies depending on usage
Google Cloud Platform
Easily scalable, with global data centers and many features
Varies depending on usage
GameServers.com
Specializes in game hosting with pre-configured options
Starts at $9.99/month
Vultr
Offers high-performance servers with many locations to choose from
Starts at $2.50/month

When choosing a hosting provider, it’s important to consider factors such as price, reliability, and features. Do your research and read reviews before making a decision.

How to Host Your Own UE4 Server

If you’d like to host your own UE4 server, there are several steps you’ll need to follow:

Step 1: Download the Dedicated Server Package

The first step is to download the dedicated server package from the UE4 launcher. This can be found under the “Learn” tab, then “Tools.” Once downloaded, extract the package to a location on your computer.

Step 2: Configure Your Server Settings

Next, you’ll need to configure your server settings. This includes things like the game mode, map rotation, and player count. You can do this by editing the “Game.ini” and “Engine.ini” files located in the server package.

Step 3: Set Up Port Forwarding

In order for players to connect to your server, you’ll need to set up port forwarding on your router. This involves opening up certain ports on your router to allow incoming connections to your server. The specific ports you’ll need to forward can be found in the server package documentation.

Step 4: Start Your Server

Once your settings are configured and port forwarding is set up, you can start your server by running the “UE4Server-Win64-Shipping.exe” file located in the server package. Your server should now be up and running, ready for players to connect.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is the Best UE4 Server Hosting Provider?

There is no one-size-fits-all answer to this question, as the best hosting provider will depend on your specific needs and budget. However, some popular options include Amazon Web Services, Google Cloud Platform, GameServers.com, and Vultr.

How Much Does UE4 Server Hosting Cost?

The cost of UE4 server hosting varies depending on the hosting provider and the specific plan you choose. Some providers offer pay-as-you-go pricing, while others have monthly or yearly plans. Expect to pay anywhere from a few dollars to hundreds of dollars per month depending on your needs.

What Are the Minimum Requirements for Hosting a UE4 Server?

The minimum requirements for hosting a UE4 server will depend on the specific game and number of players you plan to host. However, in general, you’ll need a fast internet connection, a dedicated server computer, and enough RAM and CPU power to handle the load.

Can I Host a UE4 Server on a Virtual Private Server (VPS)?

Yes, you can host a UE4 server on a VPS. However, be aware that VPS hosting may not be as reliable or performant as dedicated server hosting, especially for larger games with many players.

Is UE4 Server Hosting Difficult?

Hosting a UE4 server can be challenging, especially if you’re new to networking and server administration. However, with enough research and practice, it’s definitely something you can learn to do on your own.

Conclusion

That’s it for our UE4 server hosting guide, Dev! We hope you found this article informative and helpful in your quest to host your own servers. Remember, whether you choose to use a third-party provider or host your own, the key is to do your research and choose the option that best fits your needs and budget. Good luck!