Project Zomboid Build 42 brought a massive overhaul to crafting, animals and world generation. Running your own dedicated server lets you survive the zombie apocalypse together with friends on your own terms. A VPS from HostValues gives you full control over the installation.
Requirements
A Build 42 server needs at least 4 GB of RAM for a small group. For 8 or more players with mods, 8 GB is recommended. The map generates new chunks on the fly, so a fast disk helps with exploration.
Installation with SteamCMD
- Install SteamCMD on your VPS:
apt install steamcmd -y - Create a dedicated user:
useradd -m -s /bin/bash zomboid - Switch to that user and run:
steamcmd +force_install_dir /home/zomboid/server +login anonymous +app_update 380870 validate +quit - Start the server once with
./start-server.shto generate the configuration files, then stop it. - Edit
/home/zomboid/Zomboid/Server/servertest.inito set the server name, password, max players and sandbox options. - Start the server again. Players connect through the Multiplayer menu using your VPS IP and port 16261.
Sandbox settings and mods
The sandbox preset controls zombie population, loot rarity, erosion speed and day length. You can fine-tune every setting in servertest_SandboxVars.lua. Steam Workshop mods are added by placing the Workshop ID in the WorkshopItems line of the server config, separated by semicolons. Players download matching mods automatically when they connect.
Keeping the server updated
Run the same app_update 380870 command in SteamCMD to pull the latest Build 42 patches. Always back up your save folder before updating, because world saves are not always backwards compatible.
Firewall and automatic restarts
Open TCP and UDP port 16261 (game) and UDP port 16262 (Steam query) in your firewall. For unattended operation, run the server inside a screen or tmux session, or create a systemd service so it starts automatically after a reboot. A cron job that restarts the server daily during off-peak hours helps with memory leaks on long-running sessions.
Can I run a Project Zomboid server on a game panel?
Yes. If your hosting provider offers a Zomboid egg for the game panel, configuration is simpler. On a VPS you have more flexibility, including the ability to run custom scripts and automatic restart tools.
How many players can a Zomboid server handle?
Build 42 servers support up to 100 players in theory, but performance depends heavily on the map size and zombie population. Most communities run comfortably with 10 to 32 players on 8 GB of RAM.
Do mods cause problems after updates?
Sometimes. After a major Build 42 patch, workshop mods may need updating by their authors. Keep a list of your active mods and check their Workshop pages for compatibility notes before updating the server.