Unturned, a popular zombie survival game, offers a more immersive experience when players have control over their own dedicated servers. Setting up a dedicated server for Unturned allows for greater customization, stability, and security, enhancing the overall gameplay experience. This article will guide you through the process of installing, launching, configuring, and securing your Unturned dedicated server.
Key Takeaways
- Installing the Unturned Dedicated Server using SteamCMD is recommended for better management and updates.
- Proper server configuration, including basic and advanced settings, is crucial for a stable and enjoyable gameplay experience.
- Implementing security measures such as port forwarding, login tokens, and fake IPs ensures a safer server environment.
Installing Unturned Dedicated Server
Using SteamCMD
To install the Unturned Dedicated Server using SteamCMD, follow these steps:
- Download and install SteamCMD: You can find the installer on the official Steam website. Extract the contents to a directory of your choice.
- Run SteamCMD: Open a command prompt, navigate to the SteamCMD directory, and run
steamcmd.exe. - Login anonymously: In the SteamCMD prompt, type
login anonymousand press Enter. - Download the server: Use the command
app_update 1110390to download the Unturned Dedicated Server files. - Exit SteamCMD: Type
quitto close the SteamCMD prompt.
The server files will be located in the steamapps/common/U3DS directory. You can now proceed to configure and launch your server.
Without SteamCMD
If you prefer not to use SteamCMD, you can install the Unturned Dedicated Server directly from your Steam Library:
- Open Steam: Navigate to your Steam Library.
- Enable Tools filter: Ensure that the Tools filter is enabled so you can see the Unturned Dedicated Server tool.
- Install the server: Search for "Unturned Dedicated Server" and click the Install button.
- Locate server files: Right-click on the Unturned Dedicated Server in your library, select Properties, then Local Files, and click Browse.
Note: Installing without SteamCMD has some limitations, such as not being able to run multiple servers simultaneously.
With the server files in place, you’re ready to move on to launching and configuring your Unturned Dedicated Server.
Launching the Server
Launching your Unturned dedicated server is a crucial step to get your game up and running. Here’s how you can do it on both Windows and Linux systems.
Server Configuration
Configuring your Unturned dedicated server is a crucial step to ensure it runs smoothly and meets your needs. A dedicated server offers extensive customization options through various configuration files like Commands.dat, Config.json, and the server console.
Managing Server Security
Port Forwarding
Port forwarding is essential for making your Unturned server accessible to players over the internet. You’ll need to log into your router’s settings and forward the necessary ports to your server’s local IP address. Typically, Unturned uses port 27015 for game traffic and 27016 for server queries. Ensure these ports are open and correctly forwarded to avoid connectivity issues.
Using Login Tokens
Login tokens are a security feature provided by Steam to help manage and secure your server. By generating a login token, you can ensure that only authenticated users can access your server. This is particularly useful for preventing unauthorized access and maintaining a secure gaming environment. To generate a login token, visit the Steam Game Server Account Management page and follow the instructions.
Enabling Fake IP
Enabling Fake IP is a great way to protect your server from Denial of Service (DoS) attacks. This feature routes traffic through Steam’s relay network, effectively hiding your server’s real IP address. Not only does this shield your server from potential attacks, but it can also improve network latency for players. To enable Fake IP, you’ll need to modify your server’s configuration files accordingly.
Ensuring your server’s security is crucial for providing a safe and enjoyable gaming experience for your players. Taking the time to set up these security measures can save you a lot of headaches down the line.
Conclusion
Understanding and setting up a dedicated server in Unturned can significantly enhance your gaming experience by providing a stable and customizable environment for you and your friends. While using SteamCMD is recommended for its numerous benefits, the option to install the server tool via the Steam Library is also available, albeit with some limitations. By following the detailed steps and guidelines provided, you can successfully host and manage your own Unturned server, ensuring a seamless and enjoyable multiplayer experience. Whether you are a novice or an experienced server host, the information in this article equips you with the knowledge needed to make informed decisions and optimize your server setup.
