How to Start Your Own Arma 3 Server

Introduction

Arma 3 is a popular military simulation game that offers extensive customization and multiplayer capabilities. Setting up your own Arma 3 server allows you to control the game environment and create unique scenarios for you and your friends. This guide will walk you through the steps to start your own Arma 3 server.

Why Start Your Own Arma 3 Server?

• Customization: Adjust game settings, install mods, and create unique missions.
• Community: Play with friends or open your server to a broader audience.
• Control: Manage server rules, player permissions, and other configurations.

Requirements

• A computer with a Windows or Linux operating system.
• At least 4 GB of RAM (8 GB recommended).
• Stable internet connection.
• Basic knowledge of command-line interface (CLI).

Step-by-Step Guide to Start Your Own Arma 3 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 Arma 3.

• 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 Arma 3 Dedicated Server

• Open SteamCMD and log in anonymously by typing: login anonymous
• Set the install directory: force_install_dir C:\arma3server\
• Install the Arma 3 server: app_update 233780 validate

3. Configure Your Arma 3 Server

• Create a configuration file named server.cfg in the server directory.
• Edit the configuration file to customize server settings such as server name, password, mission cycle, and more.
• Example of a basic server.cfg file:
// Basic Server Config hostname = "My Arma 3 Server"; // Name of your server password = "password"; // Server password passwordAdmin = "adminpassword"; // Admin password maxPlayers = 50; // Maximum number of players logFile = "server.log"; // Server log file // Mission Rotation class Missions { class Mission1 { template = "MyMission.Stratis"; difficulty = "Regular"; }; };
• Save the configuration file.

4. Start Your Arma 3 Server

• Create a batch file (Windows) or shell script (Linux) to start the server with your desired parameters. Example for Windows:
cd C:\arma3server arma3server.exe -config=server.cfg -port=2302 -profiles=profile -cfg=basic.cfg -world=empty
• Run the batch file to start your server.

How to Add Mods to Your Arma 3 Server

1. Find and Download Mods

There are various websites where you can find mods for Arma 3, such as the Steam Workshop.

• Subscribe to the mods on Steam Workshop and let them download in your Steam client.
• Locate the mod files in your Steam directory (typically under Steam\steamapps\workshop\content\107410).

2. Install Mods on Your Server

• Copy the mod folders to the @modname format in your Arma 3 server directory.
• Edit your server startup parameters to include the mods. Example for Windows:

cd C:\arma3server
arma3server.exe -config=server.cfg -port=2302 -profiles=profile -cfg=basic.cfg -world=empty -mod=@mod1;@mod2

• Run the batch file to start your server with the mods enabled.

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 Arma 3.
• Performance Issues: Ensure your server hardware meets the recommended specifications and that there are no conflicting mods.

Resources

• Arma 3 Dedicated Server Documentation
• Bohemia Interactive Forums
• Arma Subreddit