How to Set Up a FiveM Server
A clear walkthrough for launching your own FiveM roleplay server — get your Cfx.re server key, install the server artifacts, configure server.cfg and add a framework. Plus the managed route if you'd rather skip the Linux work.
FiveM is the multiplayer framework for Grand Theft Auto V, run by Cfx.re (a Rockstar Games company). To host a server you need a legitimate copy of GTA V, a free Cfx.re account, and a server key. ESAGAMES provides the protected server hardware; you bring the game and your content.
You can run the server yourself on a VDS/dedicated box, or use managed FiveM hosting with a panel that handles the artifacts and updates for you.
What you'll need
A quick checklist before you begin — have these ready and the rest is easy.
- A legitimate copy of Grand Theft Auto V (you and your players each need one).
- A free Cfx.re account and a server key from the keymaster.
- A Linux or Windows server with a strong CPU (FiveM is CPU-bound).
- The latest FXServer artifacts, and (for RP) a framework like ESX or QBCore plus a MySQL database.
- Port 30120 (TCP & UDP) open and reachable.
Launch a FiveM server, step by step
Get a Cfx.re server key
Create a free account at the Cfx.re portal and generate a server key (license key) from the keymaster. You'll put it in your server.cfg. Each key is tied to your account — keep it private.
Install the FXServer artifacts
Download the latest recommended FXServer build (the "artifacts") for Linux or Windows from the official Cfx.re source, and extract them on your server. On managed hosting this is handled for you.
Configure server.cfg
Set your endpoints, server name, max clients, your license key and the resources to start. Never share your sv_licenseKey publicly.
endpoint_add_tcp "0.0.0.0:30120" endpoint_add_udp "0.0.0.0:30120" sv_maxclients 48 sv_hostname "My ESAGAMES RP Server" sv_licenseKey "your_cfx_key_here"
Add a framework (optional)
Most roleplay servers run a framework like ESX or QBCore plus a database (MySQL via oxmysql). Add the framework resources and ensure them in server.cfg, then import its SQL.
ensure oxmysql ensure es_extended
Start the server
Launch FXServer pointing at your server.cfg. It connects to Cfx.re, validates your key and registers your server.
./run.sh +exec server.cfg
Connect and go live
Open the FiveM client, press F8 and use connect your-ip:30120, or find your server in the list. Share your connect address with your community.
connect your-server-ip:30120
FiveM best practices
CPU is everything
FiveM is heavily single-thread bound. High CPU clock keeps a busy ESX/QBCore city smooth.
Anti-DDoS
RP communities are heavily attacked. Always-on filtering keeps your city online during raids.
Stay compliant
Use only legitimate GTA V copies and follow the FiveM & Rockstar terms — don't sell the game or use leaked paid resources.
Common problems & fixes
Hit a snag? These are the issues people run into most — and how to solve them.
Server doesn't appear in the list
Your sv_licenseKey is missing, invalid, or already in use elsewhere. Generate a fresh key in the keymaster and make sure only one server uses it.
Players can't connect
Check that port 30120 is open on both TCP and UDP and that your endpoints in server.cfg are correct.
Resources fail to start
A resource is missing a dependency or has the wrong name. Read the console — it names the failing resource and reason.
Database errors on a framework
oxmysql isn't configured or the MySQL connection string is wrong. Set your connection string and ensure oxmysql before the framework.
Skip the setup — host it with ESAGAMES
Skip the artifacts and Linux work. Our FiveM hosting gives you txAdmin, high-clock CPUs and MySQL behind a multi-Tbps Frankfurt network — your city online in minutes.
Frequently asked questions
Do I need to own GTA V to host a FiveM server?
You need a legitimate copy of Grand Theft Auto V to play on FiveM, and so do your players. You also need a free Cfx.re account and a server key.
Where do I get a FiveM server key?
From the official Cfx.re keymaster portal after creating a free account. Put the key in your server.cfg as sv_licenseKey and keep it private.
What port does FiveM use?
FiveM uses port 30120 by default (TCP and UDP). Make sure it's open and reachable.
How much CPU/RAM does a FiveM server need?
FiveM is CPU-bound, so high single-core clock matters most. A small server runs on 4–6 GB RAM; a busy ESX/QBCore city wants 8 GB+ and a strong CPU.
ESX or QBCore — which framework?
Both are popular. QBCore is modern and modular; ESX is mature with a huge resource ecosystem. Pick the one your developers know best.
Is FiveM legal?
Yes — FiveM is operated by Cfx.re, a Rockstar Games company, and is legitimate to use with a legal copy of GTA V. Always follow the FiveM and Rockstar terms of service.
Keep reading
FiveM is a Cfx.re / Rockstar Games platform. ESAGAMES is an independent hosting provider and is not affiliated with, endorsed by or sponsored by Rockstar Games, Take-Two Interactive or Cfx.re. You must own a legitimate copy of Grand Theft Auto V and comply with the FiveM and Rockstar Games terms of service. ESAGAMES provides server hardware only and does not supply the game.
