Hosting your own server

Hosting a 7 Days to Die Server: Exploring Your Options

For fans of 7 Days to Die, hosting a server can significantly enhance the multiplayer experience. Whether you’re teaming up with friends or opening your world to fellow survivors, the decision of how to host your server can be a bit daunting. Here’s a dive into the world of server hosting for 7 Days to Die, exploring the ins and outs of different options available.

Going the Mini PC Route

Using a mini PC as a dedicated server for 7 Days to Die is an increasingly popular choice. It offers the flexibility of having your own server at home without needing a bulky setup. But, the key question is: what kind of specs do you need for smooth gameplay?

For a 10k map with about 4-5 players, the requirements aren’t as demanding as one might think. From what I’ve gathered in discussions with fellow gamers, a system with around 16GB of RAM should suffice for most needs. Performance is generally stable, and you shouldn’t run into too many issues.

Of course, the more, the merrier – 32GB RAM can provide a buffer for more demanding scenarios or larger player groups. Remember, it’s not just about RAM; processing power is crucial too. A decent CPU will ensure your server can handle the game’s demands without lagging or crashing.

The Old Gaming Laptop or PC

Another economical option is repurposing an old gaming laptop or PC as a server. Many players have found success with this approach, using systems equipped with a decent SSD and about 32GB RAM. If you have an old gaming machine lying around, it could be a perfect fit for your server needs, especially for maps with higher zombie counts or additional server-side mods.

Renting Through a Hosting Company

For those not keen on the technical aspects of setting up and maintaining a server, renting through a hosting company is a viable option. This route offers the convenience of having someone else manage the server infrastructure, including dealing with potential DDOS attacks and other security concerns.

Key Considerations

Regardless of which route you choose, there are a couple of key points to consider:

• Internet Bandwidth: Ensure your internet connection can handle the server traffic. A steady upload speed is crucial for a lag-free experience for all players.
• DDOS Protection: If you’re hosting at home, be aware of security risks like DDOS attacks. Hosting companies often provide DDOS mitigation, which can be a significant advantage.
• Cost vs Convenience: While hosting at home can be more cost-effective in the long run, it requires a bit more technical know-how. On the other hand, renting a server is more straightforward but comes with a recurring cost.

Final Thoughts

Hosting a 7 Days to Die server can be a fulfilling project, especially if you enjoy the technical side of things. Whether you opt for a mini PC, an old gaming rig, or a rented server, each option has its merits. Your choice will ultimately depend on your technical comfort level, budget, and specific gaming needs. Whichever path you choose, prepare for a fun and rewarding experience as you bring together a community of survivors in the post-apocalyptic world of 7 Days to Die.

With these insights, 7 Days to Die enthusiasts can make an informed decision on how to best host their server, ensuring a seamless and enjoyable gaming experience for everyone involved. Happy surviving, and may your server be as resilient as your in-game fortifications!