How to Configure Your Project Zomboid Server (server.ini)
Complete Project Zomboid server.ini reference — server name, players, PvP, mods, whitelist, and key settings.
PZ uses [servername].ini in the Zomboid/Server/ directory. Gameplay settings are separate in [servername]_SandboxVars.lua.
Key Settings
Server Identity
| Setting | Default | Description |
|---|---|---|
PublicName | My Server | Server browser name |
PublicDescription | "" | Browser description |
Public | true | Show in public browser |
Password | "" | Join password (empty = public) |
MaxPlayers | 32 | Max concurrent players |
DefaultPort | 16261 | Main UDP port |
UDPPort | 16262 | Secondary UDP port |
Gameplay
| Setting | Default | Description |
|---|---|---|
PVP | true | Enable PvP |
SafetySystem | true | Opt-in PvP (players toggle their own PvP flag) |
PauseEmpty | true | Pause world when empty |
SleepAllowed | false | Allow sleeping |
Open | true | false = whitelist only |
Mods
WorkshopItems=498441420;2297098490
Mods=Hydrocraft;Arsenal(26)GunFighterSemicolon-separated (not commas). WorkshopItems = Workshop IDs, Mods = mod folder names. Both needed.
RCON
| Setting | Default | Description |
|---|---|---|
RCONPort | 27015 | RCON TCP port |
RCONPassword | "" | Set to enable RCON |
Ports
| Port | Protocol | Purpose |
|---|---|---|
| 16261 | UDP | Primary game |
| 16262 | UDP | Direct UDP |
| 27015 | TCP | RCON (optional) |
Important Note
If sandbox changes don't apply, delete map_sand.bin from the save folder and restart.
Related Guides
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