How to Optimize Arma Reforger Server Performance
Tune your Arma Reforger dedicated server for better FPS, lower lag, and smoother gameplay through view distance, AI limits, mod audits, and restart schedules.
Arma Reforger servers can struggle as player counts and scenario complexity increase. Here's how to tune for the best balance of features and performance.
Quick Wins
| Setting | Default | Optimization | Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
serverMaxViewDistance | 1600 | Lower to 1200–1600 | Big — reduces simulation cost |
aiLimit | -1 (unlimited) | Set to 50–80 | Biggest CPU win |
disableAI | false | true for PvP | Eliminates AI cost entirely |
-maxFPS startup param | unset | 60–120 | Critical — prevents runaway CPU |
MaxPlayers | 64 | Match your hardware | More players = exponential load |
Tune via Config Editor
Adjust player slots
Go to the Game tab and lower Max Players to match your hardware:
| Player Count | Performance |
|---|---|
| 1–32 | Smooth |
| 32–64 | Moderate load — needs tuning |
| 64–128 | Heavy load, requires high-end hardware |
Lower view distance
In the Properties tab, reduce serverMaxViewDistance and networkViewDistance. See View Distance for recommendations.
Set an AI limit
In the Optional tab → Operating settings, set aiLimit to a reasonable value (50–80 for most servers). For PvP-only servers, set disableAI to true. See Disable AI.
Audit mods
In the Mods tab, remove mods you're not actively using. Each mod adds processing overhead — keep your list lean.
Save and restart
Click Save Changes and restart from Console.
Set the FPS Cap (Critical)
The -maxFPS startup parameter is the most important performance setting. Without it, the server tries to use all available CPU.
Open Startup
Click Startup in the panel sidebar.
Set max FPS
Find the Max FPS variable and set it to 60 or 120. On XGamingServer, this is usually pre-configured to an optimal value.
Restart
Restart from Console.
Memory Recommendations
| Players | Recommended RAM |
|---|---|
| 1–32 | 4 GB |
| 32–64 | 6 GB |
| 64–128 | 8 GB+ |
Check Activity in the panel sidebar to monitor real-time resource usage.
Schedule Regular Restarts
Long-running servers accumulate memory and entity drift. Use Schedules in the panel to restart every 6–24 hours depending on load. See Automatic Backups for the schedule UI.
Scenario Choice
| Scenario | Performance Cost |
|---|---|
| Game Master | Lowest — no pre-placed AI |
| Combat Ops | Moderate |
| Conflict | Highest — full AI, vehicles, large map |
For lower-end servers, prefer Game Master or Combat Ops over Conflict.
Mod Performance Audit
Baseline test
Run the server with no mods and note the FPS in Console.
Add mods one at a time
Add a single mod, restart, and compare FPS.
Identify culprits
Mods that cause significant FPS drops should be removed or replaced. Some mods add complex simulations that scale poorly.
Tip: Start with lower player limits and gradually increase as you optimize. A smooth 32-player server is better than a laggy 64-player one.
Note: Arma Reforger performance improves with engine updates. Keep your server updated to benefit from Bohemia Interactive's optimizations — see Update Guide.
Related Guides
How is this guide?
How to Add Workshop Mods to Your Arma Reforger Server
Install Steam Workshop mods on your Arma Reforger server using the Config Editor's mod manager or by editing config.json directly.
How to Change Max Players on Your Arma Reforger Server
Set the maximum player count on your Arma Reforger dedicated server with recommendations for each scenario type.