Getting Started with Your Project Zomboid Server
This guide walks you through setting up your Project Zomboid dedicated server and connecting with friends to survive the zombie apocalypse.
Prerequisites
- An active Project Zomboid server from SpillHosting
- Project Zomboid installed on your PC via Steam
- Your server IP and port from the control panel
Step 1: Access the Control Panel
- Go to panel.spillhosting.no
- Log in with your credentials
- Select your Project Zomboid server
Step 2: Configure Your Server
- Navigate to the Startup tab
- Set your Server Name
- Set an Admin Password - you'll need this to manage the server in-game
- Configure Max Players
- Click Save
Step 3: Start the Server
- Go to the Console tab
- Click Start
- Wait for the server to fully initialize
The first start takes longer as the server generates the world map and sets up configuration files.
Step 4: Connect to Your Server
- Launch Project Zomboid
- Click Join from the main menu
- Enter your server IP and port in the fields
- Enter your desired Username
- Enter the Server Password (if one is set)
- Click Connect
First-Time Account Creation
- On your first connection, you'll create a server account
- Choose a username and password
- Remember these - you'll need them each time you connect
Step 5: Set Yourself as Admin
Via Server Console
- Open the console in the control panel
- Type:
setaccesslevel [username] admin - Your account now has full admin access
Via In-Game
- Press T to open chat
- Type
/setaccesslevel [username] admin - This requires the admin password from the startup configuration
Admin Access Levels
| Level | Description |
|---|---|
admin |
Full access to all commands and settings |
moderator |
Can kick, ban, and manage players |
overseer |
Can teleport and view player info |
gm |
Game Master - can spawn items |
observer |
Can watch but not interact |
Essential Admin Commands
| Command | Description |
|---|---|
/kick [user] |
Kick a player |
/ban [user] |
Ban a player |
/unban [user] |
Unban a player |
/teleport [user] |
Teleport to a player |
/additem [user] [item] [count] |
Give items to a player |
/godmod [user] |
Toggle invincibility |
/invisible [user] |
Toggle invisibility |
/save |
Force a world save |
/quit |
Save and stop the server |
/players |
List connected players |
Server Configuration
After the first start, you can fine-tune settings by editing the server config:
- Connect via SFTP
- Navigate to
/Server/ - Edit
[servername].inifor general settings - Edit
[servername]_SandboxVars.luafor gameplay settings (zombie count, loot rates, etc.) - Restart the server after changes
Troubleshooting
Can't Connect
- Ensure the server has fully started (check console)
- Verify the IP and port are correct
- Make sure your game version matches the server version
- Check for any server password requirements
Mods Not Working
- Ensure Workshop mods are configured in the server settings
- All players need the same mods installed
- Check the console for mod loading errors
Server Crashes
- Check console logs for error messages
- Verify enough RAM is allocated
- Too many zombies or players in one area can cause crashes
Need help surviving? Contact our 24/7 support team.