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How to make a Project Zomboid server

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You can survive Knox County with friends in two ways: run a dedicated server on your own computer, or rent one that stays online when you log off. This guide covers both.

Option 1: run it on your own PC

  1. Install the dedicated server. In Steam, open Library, switch the filter to include Tools, and install "Project Zomboid Dedicated Server". It's free if you own the game. Use the same build (branch) as your players.
  2. Start it once. Run StartServer64.bat from the server folder. On the first start it asks you to set an admin password. Let it finish loading, then type quit to stop it.
  3. Set the basics. Edit Zomboid/Server/servertest.ini in your user folder: server name, a join password (Password=), max players, and the public/private setting. Mods and sandbox settings go in the files next to it.
  4. Give it memory. The -Xmx value in StartServer64.bat sets the server's RAM. Raise it for bigger groups or a lot of mods.
  5. Let friends in. Forward UDP ports 16261 and 16262 on your router to your PC. Friends join with your public IP and port 16261, then enter the password.

The catch: your PC has to stay on whenever anyone plays, everyone who joins can see your home IP, your friends need the new IP whenever yours changes, and the backups are up to you.

Option 2: get one that stays online

A Project Zomboid Build 42 server for PC on Steam, password-protected, on the same panel and backups as our Minecraft servers. You get a permanent address with a name and a port, and the exact one is in your order email. No port forwarding. The first start takes 30 to 60 minutes because of the game download.

Start a Project Zomboid server

How much RAM?

We recommend 5 GB for 2–5 players, and that's the size preselected on the order page. On the order page you can pick 4 or 5 GB right now.

Price

$1.50 per GB of RAM per month, with a $5 minimum (up to 3 GB). A 5 GB Project Zomboid server is $7.50 a month.

Beta: 50% off for servers started by 6 December 2026, so 5 GB is $3.75 a month. We'll email you at least 14 days before the price changes. All prices in USD, plus applicable taxes. Money-back on your first payment within 72 hours.

The beta is open to the US & Canada (outside Quebec). Beta slots are limited right now.

FAQ

Why can't my friend connect?

Usually a build mismatch: the server and every player need the same Project Zomboid build. Also check the port and password.

Can console players join?

No. Project Zomboid is PC only.

Which build does Packyard run?

Build 42.

Start a Project Zomboid server

Also see: Project Zomboid hosting. Back to Packyard home.

Project Zomboid belongs to The Indie Stone. Packyard is not affiliated with them.