How to Start Your Own 7 Days to Die Server and Add Mods

Introduction

7 Days to Die is a popular survival horror game that offers extensive customization through server settings and mods. Setting up your own server allows you to create a unique gaming experience. This guide will walk you through the process of starting your own 7 Days to Die server and adding mods.

Why Start Your Own 7 Days to Die Server?

• Customization: Adjust the game settings to your liking.
• Community: Create a private server for friends or a public server for the community.
• Control: Manage server rules, mods, and other configurations.

Requirements

• A computer with a Windows or Linux operating system.
• At least 8 GB of RAM (16 GB recommended).
• 10 GB of free storage space.
• Stable internet connection.
• Basic knowledge of command-line interface (CLI).

Step-by-Step Guide to Start Your Own 7 Days to Die Server

1. Download and Install SteamCMD

SteamCMD is a command-line version of the Steam client, used to install and update dedicated servers for various games including 7 Days to Die.

• Visit the SteamCMD page to download the tool.
• Extract the contents to a folder of your choice.
• Run SteamCMD and let it update.

2. Install 7 Days to Die Dedicated Server

• Open SteamCMD and log in anonymously by typing: login anonymous
• Set the install directory: force_install_dir C:\7dtdserver\
• Install the 7 Days to Die server: app_update 294420 validate

3. Configure and Run Your 7 Days to Die Server

• Navigate to the server install directory and open serverconfig.xml in a text editor.
• Edit the settings according to your preferences, such as server name, password, and game world.
• Save the configuration file and create a batch file to start the server. Example for Windows:
cd C:\7dtdserver start 7DaysToDieServer.exe -configfile=serverconfig.xml
• Run the batch file to start your server.

How to Add Mods to Your 7 Days to Die Server

1. Find and Download Mods

There are various websites where you can find mods for 7 Days to Die, such as 7 Days to Die Mods and the official forums.

• Download the mod files, usually provided in a ZIP or RAR format.
• Extract the contents to a temporary folder.

2. Install Mods

• Copy the mod folders (typically named after the mod) into the Mods folder in your 7 Days to Die server directory. If the Mods folder does not exist, create it.
• Ensure each mod has its own subfolder within the Mods folder.

3. Start Your Server with Mods

• Start your server using the batch file or command you created earlier.
• The server will automatically detect and load the installed mods.

Troubleshooting

Common Issues

• Server Not Starting: Check the server logs for errors and ensure all paths are correct.
• Mods Not Loading: Verify that the mods are compatible with your version of 7 Days to Die.
• Performance Issues: Ensure your server hardware meets the recommended specifications and that there are no conflicting mods.

Resources

• SteamCMD Documentation
• 7 Days to Die Modding Community
• 7 Days to Die Subreddit