Running your own DayZ server means your own rules — your loot, your mods, your community, no random KOS bandits. This guide covers how to make a DayZ (PC) server.
PC only — a quick note
Custom DayZ servers exist on the PC (Steam) version, where the full modding and community-server ecosystem lives. Console (Xbox/PlayStation) private servers are handled separately through Bohemia’s official console partner and can’t be modded the same way — so this guide is for PC.
The two ways to host
1. Managed hosting (the easy way)
The fastest route is a managed DayZ server — it’s deployed in minutes on AMD Ryzen 9 hardware, with mods, maps and configs editable from the panel, plus DDoS protection and backups. You skip the SteamCMD setup entirely. 30% OFF with code XGAMEON.
2. Self-hosting (manual)
- Install the DayZ Server via SteamCMD (app 223350) on Windows or Linux — see our Linux hosting guide.
- Configure serverDZ.cfg — name, password, player count, and gameplay settings (see our serverDZ.cfg guide) or our config generator.
- Pick a map — Chernarus or Livonia ship with the server; custom maps come via mods.
- Add mods (optional) from the Steam Workshop and their keys (see our mods guide).
- Open the ports and launch the server.
After it’s running
Tune your loot economy in types.xml (see our Central Loot Economy guide), set admins (e.g. with VPPAdminTools), and share the server with your group. From here you can build a whole community — vanilla survival or heavily modded.
Frequently asked questions
How do I make a DayZ server?
On PC, either rent a managed DayZ server (fastest) or install the DayZ Server via SteamCMD, configure serverDZ.cfg, pick a map, add mods, and open the ports.
Can I make a DayZ server on Xbox or PS5?
Console private servers are handled through Bohemia’s official console partner, not self-hosted or modded like PC. Our hosting is for the PC (Steam) version.
How much does a DayZ server cost?
Managed DayZ hosting starts around $17.50/mo; cost scales with player slots and how heavily modded your server is.
Ready to play?
Run your own DayZ server with XGamingServer
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