How to Make a 7 Days to Die Server
A complete walkthrough for running your own 7 Days to Die dedicated server — install the free server tool with SteamCMD, edit the settings that matter in serverconfig.xml, open the right ports and add mods. Plus the one-click hosted route if you'd rather skip the setup.
There are two ways to run a 7 Days to Die server: self-host the free dedicated server tool on your own machine, or use a managed host. Self-hosting is free but ties up a PC, exposes your home IP and needs port-forwarding; a managed host gives you a 24/7 server with a panel, DDoS protection and a clean IP for a few euros a month.
This guide covers the self-hosted route with SteamCMD step by step, and points out where a host saves you the hassle.
What you'll need
A quick checklist before you begin — have these ready and the rest is easy.
- A machine to run the server — a spare PC for testing, or a host for 24/7 uptime.
- SteamCMD, to download the free dedicated server tool (app 294420).
- At least 6–8 GB of free RAM and a modern multi-core CPU.
- Open ports: TCP 26900 and UDP 26900-26903.
- A way for friends to connect — port-forwarding at home, or a clean IP from a host.
Set up a 7 Days to Die dedicated server, step by step
Choose self-host or a managed host
The dedicated server is free, but self-hosting needs a PC left on 24/7, port-forwarding and enough RAM. A managed host gives you an always-online server and a panel in minutes. If you want zero hassle, pick a host and skip to step 5.
Install SteamCMD and the server tool
7 Days to Die has a separate free dedicated server tool (Steam app 294420) — you do not need to own the game on the server machine. Install it anonymously with SteamCMD.
steamcmd +login anonymous +app_update 294420 validate +quit
Edit serverconfig.xml
Open serverconfig.xml in the install folder and set the options that matter — server name, password, player count, world seed and size. The defaults work, but set at least these.
Open the ports
Forward TCP 26900 (game connection) and UDP 26900-26903 (game data) to the server. Optionally open TCP 8080 for the web-based control panel. On a managed host this is handled for you.
Start the server
Launch the server (startdedicated.bat on Windows, or the Linux startserver script) pointing at your config. It generates the world on first start, which can take a few minutes.
./startserver.sh -configfile=serverconfig.xml
Add mods (optional)
Drop mods into the /Mods folder. Note most 7DTD mods must be installed on both the server and every player. Restart the server to load them. On a host this is a file-manager upload.
Keep your server smooth and safe
Give it enough RAM
7 Days to Die is heavy — 6–8 GB for a small server, more for big maps or many players. Too little causes stutter and rollbacks.
Watch your world size
A bigger WorldGenSize means more RAM and CPU. 6144 is a good balance; only go larger if your hardware can take it.
Enable backups
The world save is everything. Schedule backups so a corruption or a bad mod never wipes your base.
Protect your IP
Self-hosting exposes your home IP to attacks on horde night. A managed host puts a clean, DDoS-protected IP in front.
Common problems & fixes
Hit a snag? These are the issues people run into most — and how to solve them.
The server never appears in the list
Ports aren't open. Make sure TCP 26900 and UDP 26900-26903 are forwarded and reachable, then restart.
Server crashes or lags on horde night
Not enough RAM or CPU. Raise the RAM, lower ServerMaxPlayerCount or reduce WorldGenSize.
"Version mismatch" when joining
Your client and server are on different game versions. Update both to the same version (re-run the SteamCMD app_update).
World won't generate / stuck on start
First-time world generation can take several minutes on large sizes. If it hangs, check disk space and lower WorldGenSize.
Skip the setup — host it with ESAGAMES
Want it online 24/7 without port-forwarding or leaving a PC on? Our 7 Days to Die hosting runs on high-clock CPUs and NVMe behind a multi-Tbps Frankfurt network — protected and instant.
Frequently asked questions
Do I need to own 7 Days to Die to host a server?
No. The dedicated server (Steam app 294420) is a free, separate download from the game. You only need the game on the machines that play.
How much RAM does a 7 Days to Die server need?
Around 6–8 GB for a small server on the default map size, and more for larger worlds or higher player counts. It is one of the more demanding survival games.
What ports does a 7 Days to Die server use?
TCP 26900 for the connection and UDP 26900-26903 for game data. TCP 8080 is optional for the web control panel. Forward these at home, or let a host handle it.
Where do I change the server settings?
In serverconfig.xml in the server install folder. Set ServerName, ServerPassword, ServerMaxPlayerCount, WorldGenSeed and WorldGenSize at minimum.
Can I add mods?
Yes — place them in the /Mods folder. Note most 7DTD mods must be installed on both the server and every player. A managed host makes uploading them easy.
Why can't my friends connect?
Almost always a port issue — TCP 26900 and UDP 26900-26903 must be reachable. Forward them on your router and share your public IP, or use a host with a clean public IP.
Keep reading
7 Days to Die is a trademark of The Fun Pimps Entertainment LLC. ESAGAMES is an independent hosting provider and is not affiliated with or endorsed by The Fun Pimps. You must own a legitimate copy of the game to play.
