Understanding and Configuring serverconfig.xml in 7 Days to Die

Introduction The serverconfig.xml file is the cornerstone of server customization in 7 Days to Die. It allows administrators to define server behavior, gameplay settings, and player interactions. A thorough understanding of this file is essential for effective server management.

Locating serverconfig.xml

The serverconfig.xml file resides in the root directory of your 7 Days to Die server installation. Accessing and editing this file requires a text editor such as Notepad++ or VS Code. Ensure the server is stopped before making any changes to prevent conflicts.

Structure and Format

As an XML file, serverconfig.xml uses a hierarchical structure with nested elements and attributes. Each setting is encapsulated within a <property> tag, featuring name and value attributes that define the setting’s identifier and assigned value, respectively. Comments, denoted by <!-- -->, offer descriptions and acceptable value ranges for each setting.

Example:

<property name="ServerName" value="My 7D2D Server"/> <!-- The name displayed in the server browser -->

Key Configuration Sections

1. Server Identification These settings determine how your server appears in the server browser.
   • ServerName: Sets the server’s display name. <property name="ServerName" value="My 7D2D Server"/>
   • ServerDescription: Provides a brief description of your server. <property name="ServerDescription" value="A fun and challenging 7 Days to Die experience!"/>
   • ServerWebsiteURL: A URL to your server’s website, displayed as a clickable link in the server browser. <property name="ServerWebsiteURL" value="https://example.com"/>
2. Networking Controls network-related settings, including server visibility and ports.
   • ServerPort: The primary port for client connections. <property name="ServerPort" value="26900"/>
   • ServerVisibility: Determines server visibility in the server browser.
     • 0: Not listed
     • 1: Listed
     • 2: Listed with password
     <property name="ServerVisibility" value="1"/>
3. Slots Manages player capacity and reserved slots.
   • ServerMaxPlayerCount: Maximum number of concurrent players. <property name="ServerMaxPlayerCount" value="8"/>
   • ServerReservedSlots: Number of slots reserved for specific players. <property name="ServerReservedSlots" value="0"/>
4. Gameplay Settings Adjusts game difficulty, world parameters, and player settings.
   • GameDifficulty: Sets the game’s difficulty level.
     • 0: Scavenger
     • 1: Adventurer
     • 2: Nomad
     • 3: Warrior
     • 4: Survivalist
     • 5: Insane
     <property name="GameDifficulty" value="2"/>
   • DayNightLength: Total minutes for a 24-hour cycle. <property name="DayNightLength" value="60"/>
   • BloodMoonFrequency: Days between blood moons. <property name="BloodMoonFrequency" value="7"/>
5. Multiplayer Settings Configures player versus player (PvP) interactions and party settings.
   • PlayerKillingMode: Sets PvP behavior.
     • 0: No killing
     • 1: Kill allies only
     • 2: Kill strangers only
     • 3: Kill everyone
     <property name="PlayerKillingMode" value="3"/>
   • PartySharedKillRange: Distance in meters for sharing kill XP. <property name="PartySharedKillRange" value="100"/>
6. Land Claim Options Manages land claim settings to protect player-built structures.
   • LandClaimSize: Diameter of the land claim area. <property name="LandClaimSize" value="41"/>
   • LandClaimDeadZone: Distance between land claims. <property name="LandClaimDeadZone" value="30"/>
   • LandClaimExpiryTime: Time in days before an unused land claim expires. <property name="LandClaimExpiryTime" value="7"/>

Version-Specific Changes

The serverconfig.xml file evolves with game updates, introducing new properties and deprecating old ones. For instance, in Alpha 21, the SaveData tag was removed, consolidating data management under the UserData directory. It’s crucial to review the default serverconfig.xml file after each update to identify changes and adjust your configurations accordingly.

Best Practices

• Backup Configurations: Always back up your serverconfig.xml file before making changes or applying game updates.
• Use Descriptive Comments: Add comments to document custom settings for future reference. <!-- Increased difficulty for experienced players --> <property name="GameDifficulty" value="3"/>
• Validate XML Syntax: Use an XML validator to ensure your configuration file is error-free.

This post provides a comprehensive guide to configuring serverconfig.xml for 7 Days to Die. By understanding its structure and settings, administrators can create tailored gaming experiences and maintain robust server operations.