DayZ is a hardcore survival game in an open world full of zombies and other players. On your own server you decide which map runs, how the loot economy works and which mods to use. That is the difference between a bare vanilla experience and a fully customised server.
Requirements
A DayZ server is relatively heavy. Expect at least 4 vCPU cores and 8 GB RAM for a server with up to 30 players. For 60 players or servers with many mods we recommend 16 GB RAM on a KVM VPS. The server files take up around 25 GB of disk space, and mods can increase that significantly.
Installation
- Install SteamCMD.
- Download the DayZ server:
steamcmd +force_install_dir /home/dayz/server +login anonymous +app_update 223350 validate +quit - Copy
serverDZ.cfgfrom the example files and adjust the server name, password and maximum number of players. - Start the server:
./DayZServer -config=serverDZ.cfg -port=2302 -profiles=profiles
Mods via Steam Workshop
DayZ has a very active modding community. Popular mods like Trader, Expansion and Building Fortifications add merchants, vehicles and building systems. Install mods by downloading them with SteamCMD using their workshop ID and add the mod folders to the startup parameter -mod=, separated by semicolons. Players need to have the same mods installed, which DayZ handles automatically when connecting.
Loot economy
The loot economy is one of the most powerful customisation options. In the mpmissions folder you will find XML files such as types.xml, where you configure per item how many can exist on the map at once, how fast they respawn and where they appear. This lets you make weapons rarer or more abundant. Use a tool like DayZ SA Launcher or CF Tools to edit these files conveniently.
Custom maps
Besides the standard Chernarus and Livonia there are community maps such as Deer Isle, Namalsk and Esseker. Install a map as a mod and reference it in the startup parameters. Each map has its own mpmissions folder with loot and spawn configuration files.
Frequently asked questions
How do I update mods automatically?
Create a SteamCMD script containing all your mod IDs and run it before starting the server. This way SteamCMD automatically downloads the latest versions. Many administrators run this as a cronjob combined with a server restart.
What is BattlEye and how do I configure it?
BattlEye is DayZ's anti-cheat system. It is included by default. Make sure the battleye folder is present in the server files and that you are not using the -noBE startup parameter, otherwise the server runs without anti-cheat and cheaters will not be blocked.
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