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How to Set Up Your First Server (Build 41)

5 min readLast updated: January 25, 2026

Getting Started with Your Project Zomboid Server

Setting up your first Project Zomboid server with Rivix is straightforward. Follow these steps to get your server up and running quickly.

Step 1: Purchase a Server

If you haven't already, select a Project Zomboid server package from our website that meets your needs:

  • Choose the appropriate RAM based on player count and mods
  • Select your preferred server location for optimal ping
  • Complete the checkout process

Step 2: Access Your Control Panel

After purchasing, you'll receive an email with your control panel credentials:

  1. Log in to the Rivix control panel using the provided credentials
  2. Locate your Project Zomboid server in the dashboard
  3. Click on "Manage" to access server controls

Step 3: Configure Basic Settings

Before starting your server, configure these essential settings:

  1. Navigate to the "Configuration Files" section
  2. Open the "server-settings.ini" file
  3. Set the following basic parameters:
    • ServerName - Name that appears in the server browser
    • ServerPassword - Password to protect your server (leave blank for public)
    • MaxPlayers - Maximum number of concurrent players
    • PVP - Set to true for Player vs Player, false for cooperative play
    • PublicServer - Set to true to appear in the public server list
  4. Save your changes

Step 4: Configure Gameplay Settings

Next, customize your gameplay experience:

  1. Open the "servertest.ini" file
  2. Adjust zombie settings:
    • Zombie population
    • Respawn time
    • Migration
    • Memory
  3. Modify loot settings:
    • Loot respawn time
    • Loot abundance
  4. Adjust survival difficulty:
    • Water/electricity shutoff time
    • Starting season
    • Farming speed
  5. Save your changes

Step 5: Start Your Server

Now that you've configured your server:

  1. Return to the main control panel
  2. Click the "Start" button
  3. Wait for the server to initialize (this may take a few minutes)
  4. Once running, the status will change to "Online"

Step 6: Connect to Your Server

To connect to your new server:

  1. Launch Project Zomboid
  2. Click "Join" from the main menu
  3. Add your server to favorites using the IP and port from your control panel
  4. Connect and start playing!

For detailed connection instructions, see our Connecting to Your Server (B41) guide.

Next Steps

Now that your server is running, you might want to:

Need Help?

If you encounter any issues during setup, please contact our support team through the support ticket system or join our Discord server for assistance.