Unturned Server Setup: A Configuration Guide

Setting up a private server in Unturned is an exciting venture for players eager to customize their gameplay experience. Server configuration is essential for tailoring the game environment to specific preferences, allowing adjustments to rules, maps, and player settings. Understanding port forwarding is crucial, because it ensures external connections can reach the server, making it accessible to invited players. The role of the SteamCMD tool is also significant, because it facilitates the downloading and updating of the necessary server files. Properly managing server files is equally important, because it ensures smooth operation and the ability to implement custom modifications and configurations.

Embark on Your Unturned Odyssey: Crafting Your Own Private Server

Ever get that feeling in Unturned – that the hordes just aren’t hordey enough? Or maybe you’re dreaming of a world where the wildlife is a tad more… persistent? That’s where the magic of hosting your own private Unturned server comes in! You get to be the puppet master, the architect of your apocalypse. And trust me, it’s as fun as it sounds (maybe even more!).

But why go private? Because you get to curate the chaos! No more random griefers, no more dealing with server lag, just pure, unadulterated Unturned bliss with your friends (or maybe even a few carefully chosen strangers). You set the rules, you control the environment, and you become the legend!

Now, about that “Closeness Rating”… Picture this: it’s the dial that controls how obsessed the undead (and the furry!) are with getting… well, close to you. We’re talking about cranking it up to 7-10, the sweet spot where things get intense, but you’re not quite overwhelmed (unless, of course, that’s your thing!). Why? Because at that level, you’re trading easy for epic. Every scavenge run becomes a heart-pounding thrill, every base defense a desperate last stand. It’s the kind of challenge that forges legends, and frankly, that’s what we’re here for!

So, how do we get you from Unturned newbie to server-controlling demi-god? Don’t worry! I’ll be with you on your quest by diving headfirst into all things server setup and tweak. We’ll cover:

• Getting the right software and tools (no shady downloads, I promise!).
• Configuring your server to your exact specifications (zombie hordes, loot spawns, and everything in between).
• Finding the right hardware and hosting solution to power your world.
• Mastering server management and maintenance, keeping your apocalypse running smooth.
• And of course, the pièce de résistance: fine-tuning that Closeness Rating to create the perfect level of undead (and animal) aggression!

Buckle up, survivor! Your Unturned adventure starts now!

Gearing Up: Essential Software and Tools for Server Domination

Alright, aspiring server overlords! Before you can unleash hordes of amped-up zombies with a Closeness Rating that will make your players scream (with laughter and terror, hopefully), you’ll need the right tools. Think of this as gathering your Avengers – each piece of software plays a crucial role in bringing your Unturned vision to life. Let’s dive in!

First, let’s talk about the big cheese: Unturned itself. This is the game that you want to host so it can’t be replaced.

SteamCMD: Your Server Download Portal

Okay, now we get into the nitty-gritty, and trust me, it’s not as scary as it sounds. Forget fancy graphical interfaces, we’re going old-school with SteamCMD, a command-line tool. Think of it as the super-efficient, no-nonsense post office for all your Steam goodies. It’s how you’ll snag the dedicated server files for Unturned, and it’s surprisingly straightforward once you get the hang of it.

How to Download and Install SteamCMD (The Easy Way):

1. Head to the Source: Your first mission is to download SteamCMD. Only get it directly from the official Steam documentation. Seriously, folks, this is not the place to cut corners. Here’s the link you will need: https://developer.valvesoftware.com/wiki/SteamCMD.

2. Pick Your Poison (Operating System): SteamCMD is available for Windows, Linux, and macOS. Choose the version that matches your server’s operating system.

3. Extract and Conquer: Once downloaded, you’ll likely have a .zip file (Windows) or a .tar.gz file (Linux/macOS). Extract the contents to a dedicated folder (e.g., C:\SteamCMD on Windows or /home/user/steamcmd on Linux).

Downloading Unturned Server Files: Command-Line Kung Fu

Alright, time to channel your inner coder (don’t worry, it’s just a few lines!). Open your command prompt (Windows) or terminal (Linux/macOS) and navigate to the directory where you extracted SteamCMD. Now, prepare to unleash these commands, one by one:

1. steamcmd: This launches the SteamCMD tool. You should see some text scroll by as it initializes.

2. login anonymous: This logs you in anonymously. Since you’re just downloading public server files, you don’t need a Steam account login.

3. force_install_dir ./UnturnedServer: This tells SteamCMD where to download the Unturned server files. In this case, we’re creating a folder named “UnturnedServer” in the same directory as SteamCMD. You can change this to whatever you like.

4. app_update 304930 validate: This is the magic command! 304930 is the App ID for the Unturned dedicated server. validate ensures that all files are downloaded correctly and verified.

5. quit: This closes SteamCMD once the download is complete.

Example:

C:\SteamCMD> steamcmd
Steam> login anonymous
Steam> force_install_dir ./UnturnedServer
Steam> app_update 304930 validate
Steam> quit

• Pro Tip: This process can take a while, depending on your internet speed. Grab a coffee, watch some funny cat videos, and let SteamCMD do its thing.

Important Safety Note: A Word to the Wise

• Seriously, only download SteamCMD from the official Steam source. There are nasty things lurking on the internet, and you don’t want to invite them onto your server. Stick to the official link, and you’ll be golden.

Configuring Your World: Mastering Server Settings

Alright, buckle up, server admins! This is where we transform a blank slate into your vision of the Unturned apocalypse. Think of these configuration files as the DNA of your server – tweak them just right, and you’ll craft an experience players will be raving about (or running screaming from, if that’s your thing!). We’re diving deep into the server’s control panel, so let’s get comfy.

Configuration Files: The Heart of Your Server

Imagine your server as a complex machine. These configuration files are the blueprints, the instructions, the secret sauce that makes it all tick. You’ll primarily be wrestling with a few key players:

• server.cfg: This is the granddaddy of them all, controlling the core global settings of your server. It dictates the name, the password, the rules of engagement, the whole shebang.

• commands.dat: Want to hand out admin powers like candy? Or maybe create a custom command that rains down a horde of zombies on unsuspecting players? This is your playground. Think of it as the server’s command center, giving you god-like abilities (use them wisely!).

• map.cfg (and similar): Some servers, especially those running custom maps, might have additional configuration files specific to the map. These let you tweak things like spawn points, resource distribution, and other map-related settings. Treat these maps as your own custom canvas!

Each file has a specific job, and understanding them is key to server domination. Get ready to get your hands dirty!

server.cfg: Fine-Tuning Global Settings

This is where the magic happens, folks. Open up server.cfg in a text editor (Notepad++ is your friend here – trust me) and prepare to be amazed. You’ll find a whole bunch of settings that control almost every aspect of your server. Let’s highlight some of the VIPs:

• name: This is your server’s public-facing name. Make it catchy, make it memorable, but please, for the love of all that is holy, don’t make it “Official Unturned Server #42069.”

• password: Keep the riff-raff out! Set a strong password to protect your server from unwanted guests. Unless, of course, you want a chaotic free-for-all…

• welcome_message: Greet your players with a warm (or chilling) welcome message. Set the tone right from the start!

• max_players: How many survivors can cram into your apocalypse? Set the maximum player count to optimize performance and keep things manageable.

• port: The gateway to your server. The default is usually 27015, but you can change it if you’re feeling adventurous (or if another server is hogging that port).

• map: Choose your battlefield! PEI, Washington, Yukon, or a custom-made masterpiece – the choice is yours.

• mode: Easy, Normal, Hardcore – pick your poison. This determines the difficulty level and the overall gameplay experience.

• difficulty: Ties into the “mode” setting. Adjusts things like loot spawns, zombie health, and other factors that influence the challenge.

• pvp: Enable or disable player-versus-player combat. Are you running a friendly co-op server or a cutthroat survival arena?

• cheats: Enable or disable cheats. This is usually best left disabled unless you’re actively debugging or running a testing server.

• verify_signatures: A crucial security setting that prevents players from joining with modified game files. Keep this enabled to avoid cheating and maintain a fair playing field.

Best Practice: Before you go all trigger-happy with the settings, make a backup of your server.cfg file! Trust me, you’ll thank me later. Imagine accidentally turning on cheats for everyone and not having the original config file to revert to!!

commands.dat: Controlling Commands and Permissions

Want to give yourself (or your trusted lieutenants) god-like powers? commands.dat is where you do it. This file lets you customize commands and permissions, granting admin rights to specific SteamIDs.

• Granting Admin Rights: Find the section for admin permissions and add the SteamIDs of the players you want to elevate to admin status. Boom! Instant power.

• Custom Commands: Get creative! You can create custom commands that do just about anything you can imagine. Spawn items, teleport players, summon hordes of zombies – the possibilities are endless (within the limits of the game, of course).

Security Warning: Be VERY careful who you give admin permissions to! An admin with malicious intent can wreak havoc on your server. Only give them to trusted players.

Map Selection: Choosing Your Battlefield

Unturned offers a variety of maps, each with its own unique flavor and challenges.

• PEI (Prince Edward Island): The classic starter map. A good balance of urban and rural areas.

• Washington: A larger, more challenging map with a sprawling city and dense forests.

• Yukon: A frigid, unforgiving landscape where survival is a constant struggle.

• Curated Maps: The community is constantly creating new and exciting maps. Explore the Steam Workshop to discover hidden gems!

The map setting in server.cfg determines which map your server will use. Consider the pros and cons of each map when making your choice.

Game Modes and Difficulty: Tailoring the Challenge

Unturned offers a few core game modes, each dramatically altering the gameplay loop.

• Easy: Abundant loot, weak zombies. Great for beginners or a more relaxed experience.

• Normal: A balanced experience with moderate loot and zombie difficulty.

• Hardcore: Scarce loot, tough zombies, and permadeath. For the truly masochistic survivors.

• PvP: Player versus player combat is enabled.

• PvE: Player versus environment only. Players can cooperate against the zombies.

The mode and difficulty settings in server.cfg control these aspects. Experiment to find the perfect balance for your player base.

BattlEye: Keeping Cheaters at Bay

BattlEye is an anti-cheat system that helps keep your server fair and balanced. Enabling BattlEye (BattlEye setting in server.cfg) can help prevent cheating, but it can also have a slight performance impact. Weigh the pros and cons carefully. Some players might experience issues with BattlEye, so it’s something to keep an eye on.

Phew! That was a lot, but now you’re armed with the knowledge to configure your Unturned server like a pro. Get out there and start tweaking!

Powering Up Your Unturned Server: Hardware, Network, and Hosting – Let’s Get This Show on the Road!

So, you’re ready to unleash your own Unturned world onto the masses? Awesome! But before you start dreaming of hordes of zombies with that perfect Closeness Rating, let’s talk about what it really takes to power your server. It’s not just about hitting “start” and hoping for the best; it’s about making informed decisions about hardware, network setup, and hosting to give your players a smooth, lag-free experience. Trust me, a laggy server is a dead server.

Dedicated Server vs. Home Hosting: The Ultimate Showdown

First things first: Are you going to host this thing at home, or are you going to spring for a dedicated server? Think of it like this: Hosting at home is like inviting everyone over for a pizza party – it’s cheap and personal, but you’re responsible for everything. A dedicated server is like renting out a pizzeria – you pay someone else to handle the cooking and cleaning, but it costs more.

Home Hosting Pros:
* Cost-effective (initially).
* Full control over your hardware.
* Bragging rights.

Home Hosting Cons:
* Your internet speed takes a hit.
* Requires technical know-how.
* Security risks (more on that later).
* Uptime depends on your power and internet.

Dedicated Server Pros:
* Reliable uptime and performance.
* Scalable resources.
* Professional support.
* Better security.

Dedicated Server Cons:
* More expensive than home hosting.
* Less direct control over the hardware (though you usually get plenty of software control).

Hardware Specifications: What Do You Need?

Think of your server as a virtual body, and hardware is its vital organs. Skimp on these, and your server will be gasping for air. Minimum requirements aren’t enough – aim for recommended specs to keep things running smoothly.

• CPU: A decent multi-core processor is essential. Aim for at least a quad-core CPU for a modest server. More players = more cores.
• RAM: RAM is key for keeping things running smoothly. 4GB is a bare minimum, but 8GB or more is highly recommended, especially for larger player counts or modded servers.
• Storage: Go for an SSD (Solid State Drive) if you can. HDDs (Hard Disk Drives) are cheaper, but SSDs offer much faster loading times.
• Bandwidth: This is often overlooked! Consider that players will be constantly sending data to and from the server. The better the bandwidth, the less chance of any lag.

Example Scenarios:

• 5-10 Players: Quad-core CPU, 4-8GB RAM, SSD recommended.
• 10-20 Players: Quad-core CPU or better, 8-16GB RAM, SSD essential.
• 20+ Players: Hexa-core CPU or better, 16+ GB RAM, SSD is your best friend.

Choosing a Hosting Provider: Shop Around, My Friend

If you’re going the dedicated server route, you’ll need a hosting provider. There are tons out there, so do your research.

Popular Options:
* OVH: Known for its affordable pricing and global locations.
* DigitalOcean: Good for developers and those comfortable with Linux.
* Dedicated Game Hosting Services: Companies like Nitrous Networks or GTXGaming specialize in game server hosting. They often offer user-friendly control panels and one-click installs.

Factors to Consider:
* Price: Don’t just go for the cheapest option. Consider the value you’re getting.
* Location: Choose a server location that’s geographically close to your player base to minimize latency.
* Hardware Specifications: Make sure the provider offers the hardware you need.
* DDoS Protection: This is crucial for protecting your server from attacks.
* Customer Support: A responsive support team can be a lifesaver.

IP Address and Port: Your Server’s Digital Address

Think of your server’s IP address as its street address and the port as its apartment number. Players need both to find your server. The default port for Unturned is 27015, but you can change it in the server.cfg file.

Firewall Configuration: Opening the Gates

Your firewall is like a bouncer at a club, deciding who gets in. You need to configure it to allow traffic on your server port.

Windows Firewall:
1. Search for “Windows Defender Firewall with Advanced Security.”
2. Click “Inbound Rules” and then “New Rule.”
3. Select “Port” and click “Next.”
4. Enter the port number (27015 by default) and click “Next.”
5. Select “Allow the connection” and click “Next.”
6. Give the rule a name (e.g., “Unturned Server Inbound”) and click “Finish.”
7. Repeat the process for “Outbound Rules.”

Linux Firewalls (iptables, firewalld):

The commands will vary based on which firewall you have, but they’ll look similar to the example below:

# Example for firewalld (CentOS, Fedora)
sudo firewall-cmd --permanent --add-port=27015/udp
sudo firewall-cmd --permanent --add-port=27015/tcp
sudo firewall-cmd --reload

# Example for iptables (Debian, Ubuntu)
sudo iptables -A INPUT -p udp --dport 27015 -j ACCEPT
sudo iptables -A INPUT -p tcp --dport 27015 -j ACCEPT
sudo netfilter-persistent save

Router Configuration: Port Forwarding for Home Hosting

If you’re hosting at home, you need to tell your router to forward traffic on the server port to your server’s local IP address. This process varies depending on your router model, but here’s the general idea:

1. Find Your Router’s Settings: Usually, you can access your router’s settings by typing its IP address into your web browser (often 192.168.1.1 or 192.168.0.1).
2. Find the Port Forwarding Section: Look for a section labeled “Port Forwarding,” “NAT Forwarding,” or something similar.
3. Create a New Rule: Create a new rule with the following settings:
   • Service Name: “Unturned Server” (or whatever you want to call it).
   • Port Range: 27015-27015 (or whatever port range you’re using).
   • Local IP Address: The local IP address of your server (e.g., 192.168.1.100).
   • Protocol: Both TCP and UDP.
4. Save Your Settings: Save your changes and reboot your router.

Troubleshooting Tip: If players can’t connect, double-check your port forwarding settings and firewall configuration. These are the most common culprits.

Network Connection: Are You Up to the Task?

A stable and fast network connection is paramount. Upload speed is especially crucial.

Recommended Upload Speeds:
* 5-10 Players: At least 5 Mbps upload.
* 10-20 Players: At least 10 Mbps upload.
* 20+ Players: At least 20 Mbps upload (or more).

Troubleshooting Common Network Issues:

• Packet Loss: Packets of data going missing during transmission. Can be caused by faulty hardware, congested networks, or bad cables.
• High Latency: A delay in data transmission. Can be caused by distance, network congestion, or poor routing.
• Solutions: Check your cables, restart your modem and router, contact your ISP.

Latency/Ping: Keeping Things Speedy

Latency, or ping, is the time it takes for data to travel between your server and a player’s computer. Lower latency means a more responsive gaming experience.

Tips for Reducing Latency:
* Choose a server location close to your players.
* Optimize network settings (e.g., use a wired connection instead of Wi-Fi).
* Avoid running other bandwidth-intensive applications on the server.

Server Management and Maintenance: The Never-Ending Story (But in a Good Way!)

So, you’ve got your Unturned server up and running – awesome! But think of it like a tamagotchi, you can’t just leave it and hope for the best. Server Management is the ongoing commitment to ensure your digital apocalypse is fun, fair, and, you know, doesn’t crash every five minutes. Let’s dive into the nitty-gritty of keeping your server healthy and your players happy.

The All-Seeing Administrator: More Like a Benevolent Dictator (But Nicer!)

As the server admin, you’re basically the governor of your Unturned wasteland. Your responsibilities? Keeping the peace, resolving disputes (Did someone build a base directly on top of another player’s?), and generally ensuring everyone plays nice. Think of yourself as a moderator, a rules enforcer, and a shoulder to cry on (when those pesky zombies keep stealing their loot). Be responsive, communicate clearly, and, most importantly, listen to your community. A happy community is a thriving community! Regular polls and feedback requests can go a long way.

RCON: Remote Control at Your Fingertips (Feel Like a Hacker!)

RCON, or Remote Console, is your magic portal into the heart of your server. It allows you to execute commands, monitor activity, and generally boss things around without actually being in the game. Popular RCON clients include tools like UAdmin, which provide a user-friendly interface. To set it up, you’ll need to configure RCON in your server.cfg file, specifically the rcon_password setting. And remember the Security Best Practice: Use a strong and unique password. We don’t want any digital ne’er-do-wells hijacking your apocalypse!

Logs: Uncovering Hidden Issues (Become a Digital Detective!)

Server logs are your best friend when things go wrong. They’re like a detailed diary of everything that’s happening on your server, from errors and warnings to suspicious activity. The location of these logs will depend on your server setup, but they’re usually found in a logs folder within your server directory. Analyzing these logs is like becoming a digital detective – you can identify issues, track down cheaters, and generally keep a pulse on your server’s health.

Backups: Protecting Your Progress (Because Losing Everything Sucks!)

Imagine spending weeks building the ultimate base, only to have it all wiped out by a server crash or rogue admin (hopefully not you!). That’s where backups come in. Regular backups are absolutely crucial for protecting your progress and ensuring you can recover from the inevitable disasters. Aim for a daily or weekly backup schedule, depending on how active your server is.

To create backups, simply copy the entire server directory, including the server.cfg and worlds folder. Store these backups securely – on a separate hard drive or in the cloud. Trust us, you’ll thank yourself later.

Scheduled Maintenance: Keeping the Gears Turning (Like a Well-Oiled Zombie-Slaying Machine!)

Think of scheduled maintenance as your server’s regular check-up. It involves performing routine tasks to keep things running smoothly. Examples include restarting the server (clears memory leaks), clearing temporary files (frees up disk space), and updating plugins (if applicable). Regular maintenance prevents problems and keeps players happy.

Planning for Server Downtime: Keeping Players Informed (Don’t Be That Guy!)

Unfortunately, even with the best maintenance schedule, you’ll sometimes need to take your server offline for updates or major repairs. Planning for server downtime is essential for keeping your players informed and preventing mass panic. Communicate downtime to your community in advance – through Discord, forums, or in-game announcements. Nobody likes logging in to find their favorite server suddenly gone!

Now, go forth and manage your Unturned server like a pro! Remember to be responsive, proactive, and always keep those backups handy!

Entity Closeness Rating Customization: The Heart of Your Unique Server (Entities Closeness Rating 7 – 10)

Alright, buckle up, server admins! We’re diving into the nitty-gritty of entity customization. You want zombies that really want a piece of you? Animals that are more than just a walk in the park? Then you’ve come to the right place. We’re talking about tweaking the “Closeness Rating” of your Unturned server’s inhabitants, specifically focusing on the 7-10 range – where things get interesting. This is where you can turn your server from a casual stroll to a white-knuckle survival experience.

---

Understanding Entity Configuration Files

First things first, you’ve gotta know where the magic happens. The entity configuration files are the keys to this kingdom. Now, their exact location can vary a bit depending on whether you’re rocking a vanilla setup or have embraced the wonderful world of mods. Usually, you’ll find them lurking in your server’s directory, often within a folder labeled something like “Entities” or “Config.” Keep your eyes peeled.

Dig around your server files; the specific folders will depend on whether you are using a stock Unturned server, a curated map, or custom mods. For modded servers, consult the documentation provided by the mod creators. Don’t be afraid to explore! If you’re using mods, the mod’s documentation is your best friend here. Read it. Embrace it. Love it. It will save you headaches.

---

Modifying Closeness Rating

Okay, now for the fun part. You’ve found the files (usually in .JSON or .DAT format), now it’s time to get your hands dirty. Open up the file for the entity you want to tweak (let’s say, a zombie). Search for a property called something like “Closeness,” “Aggression,” or “DetectionRange.” This is where you’ll adjust the Closeness Rating. Remember, we’re focusing on the 7-10 range.

What does this do, exactly? Think of it this way: a higher closeness rating (closer to 10) means the entity is more aggressive, has a larger detection range, and is generally more eager to make you its next meal. A rating of 7 might make zombies slightly more persistent in their pursuit, and they might spot you from a bit further away. Experiment! Here’s a sample of potential effects:

• 7: Noticeably more aggressive, increased detection range.
• 8: Actively patrols and seeks out players, heightened senses.
• 9: Relentless hunter, almost impossible to evade.
• 10: Apex predator, fear incarnate.

---

Balancing Gameplay

Here’s a pro tip: don’t go overboard. Crank up the Closeness Rating to 10 across the board, and you’ll have a server where everyone dies within five minutes. Fun? Maybe for some. Fair? Probably not.

The key is balance. Think about how the Closeness Rating interacts with other entity settings. A zombie with a high Closeness Rating and high health is going to be a real problem. Consider adjusting health, damage, speed, and spawn rates alongside the Closeness Rating to create a challenging but ultimately fair experience. Experiment to find the sweet spot.

---

Testing and Iteration

This isn’t a “set it and forget it” kind of deal. You’ll need to test your changes. Fire up your server, spawn some entities, and see how they behave. Does the Closeness Rating feel right? Is the gameplay balanced? If not, tweak the settings and try again. It’s all about iteration.

Gather feedback from your players. Are they enjoying the increased challenge? Are the zombies too OP? Their feedback is invaluable in finding the perfect balance.

---

Safety Note

And finally, the most important tip of all: BACK UP YOUR FILES BEFORE MAKING ANY CHANGES! Seriously. I can’t stress this enough. Incorrectly modifying these files can break your server, leading to frustration and potentially lost progress. Create a backup, store it somewhere safe, and only then start tinkering. You’ll thank yourself later. Now go forth and create some truly terrifying zombies (or cunning animals, if that’s your thing)!

Alright, that’s pretty much it! Setting up your own Unturned server might seem a little daunting at first, but once you get the hang of it, you’ll be customizing your gameplay in no time. So gather your friends, tweak those settings, and get ready for some awesome, personalized zombie survival! Have fun!