The Tool Desk
Outbyte Driver Updater FREEFix the driver behind crashes, sound loss and screen glitchesFind Drivers →Outbyte PC Repair FREEClear out junk files and repair common Windows errorsFree Scan →iTechGuides is reader-supported. When you buy through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. Learn more
Playing with friends? Godlike.Host runs hosted DayZ servers from 10 data-center locations, with free DDoS protection.
You can run a DayZ dedicated server on a Linux home machine, VPS, or dedicated server. Install the Linux server files with SteamCMD (DayZ app ID 223350), run the process under an unprivileged account, configure serverDZ.cfg and launch parameters, then allow the selected UDP ports through every firewall and router in the path. Start vanilla first; add Workshop mods only after the base server is stable.
Choose where to host the server
The software procedure is the same on most Linux distributions, but the hosting environment changes your network work, maintenance burden, and available headroom.
| Host | Strengths | Trade-offs and checks |
|---|---|---|
| Home machine | Full control of files, hardware and backups; no recurring server rental | Requires reliable upload bandwidth, a reachable public address or port forwarding, and uninterrupted power. Your router and ISP may use carrier-grade NAT, which can prevent inbound connections. |
| Self-managed VPS | Usually has a public IP, data-center connectivity and predictable uptime | You must manage Linux updates, the provider firewall/security group, storage and backups. Check CPU single-thread performance and RAM allocation rather than choosing on disk space alone. |
| Dedicated host | Entire CPU, RAM and SSD allocation; useful when several services or a heavily modded instance need isolation | Higher cost and full responsibility for patching, firewall rules, monitoring and recovery. |
Whichever option you select, create a separate normal Linux account (for example, dayz) and make it the owner of the server directory. Bohemia explicitly warns: “Do not run the server as root!” If the game process is compromised, an unprivileged account limits what an attacker can change elsewhere on the operating system.
Check CPU, memory and storage requirements
Bohemia’s published minimum for the dedicated server is an Intel dual-core 2.4 GHz processor or AMD dual-core 2.5 GHz processor, 6 GB of RAM and 2.5 GB of storage. The requirements page highly recommends an SSD for installation and log storage. Those figures are minimums for the server software, not a promise of a particular player count or mod load.
#1 Best Overall
- Read Before You Buy — No Video Output: These adapters support charging and USB 2.0 data transfer, but cannot transmit video signals. Except for standard USB webcams (which use USB data only), they are not compatible with HDMI/DisplayPort cables, video-capable USB-C hubs, or docking stations with video output.
- Convert USB-A Ports to USB-C: Designed to connect USB-C earphones, cables, flash drives, card readers, and other USB-C accessories to standard USB-A ports. Plug-and-play with no drivers or software required.
- Aluminum Alloy Housing: Built with a sturdy aluminum alloy shell that aids in heat dissipation and protects against daily wear and scratches. Designed to maintain a stable and secure connection.
- Compact & Travel-Friendly: The ultra-compact design allows the adapter to stay plugged into your device without blocking adjacent ports or adding bulk, reducing wear and tear on your original USB ports.
- 12-Month Warranty: Backed by a 12-month manufacturer warranty for peace of mind. Designed to meet strict quality control standards for reliable everyday performance.
A community setup guide uses a more conservative planning example: 8 GB RAM minimum and 16 GB recommended, with a 20 GB SSD minimum and 40 GB recommended. Treat these as practical community guidance, especially when you expect persistence data, logs, Workshop downloads or several mods; they are not Bohemia’s official minimums.
- Leave free disk space for updates, temporary downloads, logs and backups rather than filling the device to its nominal capacity.
- Use SSD storage when possible. Log writes and persistence files are less likely to compete with the operating system for slow disk access.
- For a home host, test upload stability at the same time of day your players will connect. A fast download connection does not compensate for poor upload quality.
Create the Linux account and install 32-bit libraries
Log in with an administrative account, create the service user, and give it a home directory. The exact commands vary by distribution; the following example is for a Debian-based system:
sudo adduser --disabled-password --gecos "" dayz
sudo mkdir -p /home/dayz/servers
sudo chown -R dayz:dayz /home/dayz/servers
sudo -iu dayzSteamCMD and some server components require architecture-specific 32-bit libraries. Bohemia’s Linux guide gives these examples:
- Debian/Ubuntu:
sudo apt-get install lib32gcc-s1 - RHEL-family systems:
sudo yum install glibc.i686 libstdc++.i686 - Arch:
sudo pacman -Syy glibc lib32-glibc nano
Package names change between releases. Confirm the equivalent package names for your distribution and release before installing. If SteamCMD reports a missing shared library, use your distribution’s package manager to identify the package that supplies that library instead of copying random binaries into the server directory.
Install SteamCMD and the DayZ server files
SteamCMD is Valve’s command-line tool for downloading and updating Steam dedicated-server files. Bohemia’s Linux flow creates a SteamCMD directory, downloads steamcmd_linux.tar.gz, and extracts it.
mkdir -p ~/servers/steamcmd ~/servers/dayz-server
cd ~/servers/steamcmd
curl -O https://steamcdn-a.akamaihd.net/client/installer/steamcmd_linux.tar.gz
tar -xzf steamcmd_linux.tar.gzRun the installation with DayZ’s dedicated-server app ID, 223350:
PC Slower Than It Used to Be?
A free scan shows the junk files, broken settings and background clutter dragging Windows down - then fixes them in one click.Free scan · Windows 10 & 11Outdated Drivers Are Slowing You Down
One free scan finds every outdated or missing driver and matches the right update for your exact hardware.Free scan · exact hardware matchRank #2
- 5-in-1 USB-C Hub: Experience comprehensive connectivity featuring a Power Delivery input, two USB-A 2.0 ports, a USB-A 3.0 port, and an HDMI port. (Note: The USB-C power delivery input port is only for connecting an external wall charger to power your laptop and cannot power peripheral devices.)
- 90W Pass-Through Charging: Achieve optimal charging with 90W pass-through power to your laptop, supported by a total input of 100W, with the hub reserving 10W for operational efficiency. (Note: Wall charger not included.)
- Quick Data Transfers: Accelerate your productivity with rapid data transfers using a high-speed 5Gbps USB 3.0 port and two 480Mbps USB 2.0 ports.
- 4K HDMI Display: Enhance your visual experience with a hub capable of delivering 4K resolution at 30Hz in both mirror and extend modes. Please note that this hub is compatible with MacBook (macOS 12 and newer), Windows 10 and 11, ChromeOS, and laptops equipped with DP Alt Mode and Power Delivery. Note: This device is not compatible with Linux.
- What You Get: Anker USB-C Hub (5-in-1, 4K HDMI), welcome guide, 18-month warranty, and our friendly customer service.
~/servers/steamcmd/steamcmd.sh
+force_install_dir ~/servers/dayz-server/
+login YOUR_STEAM_LOGIN
+app_update 223350
+quitReplace YOUR_STEAM_LOGIN with the Steam account used for the installation. SteamCMD may request the account password and, where enabled, a Steam Guard code. Keep credentials out of shell history and shared scripts; use a protected credentials mechanism if you automate updates.
Some community procedures show an anonymous-login variant with validate. Authentication requirements can differ between downloading the base server files and downloading Workshop content, so use the login method accepted by the current SteamCMD and DayZ documentation. After completion, inspect ~/servers/dayz-server and identify the actual server executable and mission directories installed by that build; filenames can change between packages and versions.
Create serverDZ.cfg and select a mission
The server configuration file controls gameplay and administrative settings. Launch parameters control where the server listens and where it stores profiles, logs, missions, mods and persistence data. Keep the configuration and custom mission files in a backup location before making major changes.
Create serverDZ.cfg in the server directory. A minimal configuration must contain the settings required by the DayZ configuration reference, such as server name, password policy, time acceleration and player limits. The exact available keys depend on the server version, so begin with the current example configuration shipped with the installation and change only values you understand.
Quick wins for a faster PC:
Repair Windows errors before they cause bigger problemsFix Now →Fix the driver behind crashes, sound loss and screen glitchesFind Drivers →Launch the server by explicitly selecting that file and a mission:
cd ~/servers/dayz-server
./DayZServer_x64
-config=serverDZ.cfg
-port=2302
-profiles=/home/dayz/profiles
-mission=./mpmissions/dayzOffline.chernarusplusThe executable name and mission directory above are common examples, not guaranteed filenames. Verify them with ls after installation and substitute the mission you intend to run. Create the profile directory first if it does not exist:
Rank #3
- Sleek 7-in-1 USB-C Hub: Features an HDMI port, two USB-A 3.0 ports, and a USB-C data port, each providing 5Gbps transfer speeds. It also includes a USB-C PD input port for charging up to 100W and dual SD and TF card slots, all in a compact design.
- Flawless 4K@60Hz Video with HDMI: Delivers exceptional clarity and smoothness with its 4K@60Hz HDMI port, making it ideal for high-definition presentations and entertainment. (Note: Only the HDMI port supports video projection; the USB-C port is for data transfer only.)
- Double Up on Efficiency: The two USB-A 3.0 ports and a USB-C port support a fast 5Gbps data rate, significantly boosting your transfer speeds and improving productivity.
- Fast and Reliable 85W Charging: Offers high-capacity, speedy charging for laptops up to 85W, so you spend less time tethered to an outlet and more time being productive.
- What You Get: Anker USB-C Hub (7-in-1), welcome guide, 18-month warranty, and our friendly customer service.
mkdir -p /home/dayz/profilesUseful parameters documented by Bohemia include:
| Parameter | Purpose |
|---|---|
-config=serverDZ.cfg |
Selects the server configuration file. |
-port=2302 |
Sets the game listen port; 2302 is the documented example. |
-mission=... |
Selects the mission directory. |
-profiles=/path |
Places profiles and related output in a chosen directory. |
-doLogs, -adminLog, -netLog |
Enables additional diagnostic, administrative or network logging. |
-mod=... |
Loads mods visible to and required by clients. |
-serverMod=... |
Loads server-only mods. |
-storage=... |
Uses a custom root for persistence storage. |
Use absolute paths for profiles, storage and mods in a service definition. This avoids failures caused by a different working directory when the process starts automatically.
Open the required UDP ports
Common DayZ Linux setup guides forward UDP ports 2302-2305. The game port is commonly 2302; Bohemia’s configuration reference uses steamQueryPort=2305 as a query-port example. Both values are configurable, so the firewall rules must match the values in your configuration and launch command.
When applicable, allow the selected ports in all three places:
- Linux firewall: add UDP rules for the game, query and any additional ports your chosen configuration uses.
- VPS or dedicated-provider firewall: add the same UDP range to the provider security group or network ACL.
- Home router: forward the ports to the Linux host’s fixed private IP. Reserve that address with a DHCP reservation or configure a static address.
For a UFW-based host using the commonly documented range:
sudo ufw allow 2302:2305/udp
sudo ufw statusDo not assume that an open port proves the server is usable. Confirm that the process is listening, your public address is correct, and the router is not applying carrier-grade NAT. If the server is running but does not appear in the browser, check the query port and every firewall layer before changing gameplay settings.
Run a first launch without mods
Start with the vanilla mission so that port, permission, library and configuration problems are isolated from mod problems. From the dayz account:
Rank #4
- Dual Converters, Infinite Potential：Includes 2× USB C male to USB A female adapters and 2× USB A male to USB C female adapters. Perfect for a wide range of uses—tablets with Bluetooth keyboards, expand USB ports on macbook, and more. Two different converters for all your daily needs
- Next-Level 10Gbps & 3A Charging: No more slow 480Mbps, this usb to usb c adapter has a transfer speed of up to 10Gbps, allowing you to do more transferring in less time. This usb adapter fits both USB A and USB C charger, supporting up to 3A fast charging
- Upgraded Exquisite Craftsmanship: With an aluminum alloy housing and metal connector, the usbc to usb adapter is extremely durable and sturdy. Rigorously tested to withstand more than 10,000 times of plugging and unplugging, ensuring long-lasting performance
- Broad Compatible: The usb c to usb adapter widely supports all USB C/ USB A devices like laptops, tablets, cellphones, car chargers, and phone chargers. Such as compatible with MacBook Pro/Air 2023/2022, Thunderbolt 4/3 Devices,Apple MagSafe Watch 9/8/7/SE/Ultra, iPad Pro 2022/2021, Samsung Galaxy S23/S20/S10, and iPhone 17/16/15 Pro. Plug and play
- Please Note: To reach 10Gbps speed, keep the cable under 3.3 ft. For USB A Male to USB C adapters, try flipping the USB C connector. USB C Male to USB A adapters support bidirectional 10Gbps transfer within 3.3 ft
cd ~/servers/dayz-server
./DayZServer_x64
-config=serverDZ.cfg
-port=2302
-profiles=/home/dayz/profiles
-mission=./mpmissions/dayzOffline.chernarusplus
-doLogs -adminLog -netLogOn the first start, verify all of the following:
- The process remains running instead of exiting immediately.
- The profile directory receives an RPT log and other expected output.
- The server binds to the selected port without an “address already in use” error.
- You can connect from the host itself or from another machine using the correct address and port.
- The mission loads and persistence directories are created with ownership belonging to
dayz, notroot.
Use the RPT and profile logs to locate syntax errors, missing files, permission failures and network-binding errors. Stop the process with an orderly signal before editing files or replacing server binaries; abruptly killing it can leave persistence data in an unsafe state.
Keep the server running with systemd
Once a manual vanilla launch works, a systemd service can start it at boot and restart it after an unexpected failure. Create a unit as an administrator:
sudo nano /etc/systemd/system/dayz.serviceUse paths that match your installation:
[Unit]
Description=DayZ Dedicated Server
After=network-online.target
Wants=network-online.target
[Service]
User=dayz
Group=dayz
WorkingDirectory=/home/dayz/servers/dayz-server
ExecStart=/home/dayz/servers/dayz-server/DayZServer_x64 -config=serverDZ.cfg -port=2302 -profiles=/home/dayz/profiles -mission=./mpmissions/dayzOffline.chernarusplus -doLogs -adminLog -netLog
Restart=on-failure
RestartSec=10
[Install]
WantedBy=multi-user.targetReload systemd, enable the service and inspect its status:
sudo systemctl daemon-reload
sudo systemctl enable --now dayz
sudo systemctl status dayz
journalctl -u dayz -fIf the unit fails, first confirm the executable path, working directory, mission path and ownership. Run the same command manually as dayz to distinguish a DayZ error from a systemd-path or permission error.
Add Workshop mods only after vanilla works
DayZ distinguishes between client-visible mods and server-only mods. Put client-required content in -mod and server-only content in -serverMod, following the exact syntax and path conventions in the current configuration reference. Each mod must be checked individually for:
- Whether clients must install it.
- Load order and dependencies.
- Version compatibility with the current server build and mission.
- Presence and placement of key/signature files where required.
- Additional storage, database or configuration files.
Do not assume that one working mod proves that another is compatible. Add one change at a time, restart, and read the RPT log before adding the next. A client that lacks a required mod may be refused at connection; a server-only mod can fail because of a missing dependency even when clients have connected successfully.
Best Value
- 5-in-1 Connectivity: Equipped with a 4K HDMI port, a 5 Gbps USB-C data port, two 5 Gbps USB-A ports, and a USB C 100W PD-IN port. Note: The USB C 100W PD-IN port supports only charging and does not support data transfer devices such as headphones or speakers.
- Powerful Pass-Through Charging: Supports up to 85W pass-through charging so you can power up your laptop while you use the hub. Note: Pass-through charging requires a charger (not included). Note: To achieve full power for iPad, we recommend using a 45W wall charger.
- Transfer Files in Seconds: Move files to and from your laptop at speeds of up to 5 Gbps via the USB-C and USB-A data ports. Note: The USB C 5Gbps Data port does not support video output.
- HD Display: Connect to the HDMI port to stream or mirror content to an external monitor in resolutions of up to 4K@30Hz. Note: The USB-C ports do not support video output.
- What You Get: Anker 332 USB-C Hub (5-in-1), welcome guide, our worry-free 18-month warranty, and friendly customer service.
The DayZ-Linux-server automation project documents scripts that install or update the server and configured mods through a Steam account. Treat it as an automation option rather than a substitute for checking each mod’s own instructions and license. Workshop downloads may require authenticated Steam access even when the base server installation does not.
Do these 3 things before closing this tab:
1Fix the driver behind crashes, sound loss and screen glitches2Repair Windows errors before they cause bigger problems3Scan for outdated or missing drivers - takes under a minuteA practical mod rollout is:
- Stop the service and back up the configuration, mission/custom files and persistence data.
- Install or update one mod.
- Place its files and signatures according to the mod’s documentation.
- Add its path to
-modor-serverMod. - Start the server, watch the RPT log, and connect with a matching client.
- Record the working version and load order so you can reproduce or roll back the installation.
Update the server without losing persistence
Bohemia states that updates use the same SteamCMD commands as installation. Stop the running service before replacing files:
sudo systemctl stop dayz
sudo -iu dayz ~/servers/steamcmd/steamcmd.sh
+force_install_dir /home/dayz/servers/dayz-server/
+login YOUR_STEAM_LOGIN
+app_update 223350
+quit
sudo systemctl start dayzBefore a planned update, back up at least:
serverDZ.cfg- Custom mission files and scripts
- The profiles and RPT logs you need for troubleshooting
- Persistence/storage data selected by your server and
-storagesetting - Mod directories, configuration and key/signature files
Keep a dated rollback copy when a major game or mod update is planned. After restarting, check the RPT log, verify the mission loads, and test a connection before allowing players back in. If the new build fails, stop the service, restore the known-good files and configuration, and investigate the first error in the log rather than repeatedly restarting.
Troubleshoot the failures that matter most
The process exits immediately
- Run the command manually as
dayzso the error is visible. - Check that the executable and mission paths exist and are executable.
- Confirm the required 32-bit libraries are installed.
- Check the RPT log for malformed configuration entries or missing dependencies.
The server runs but is not visible
- Confirm the process is listening on the configured UDP game port.
- Open the same port in the Linux firewall, provider security group and router.
- Verify the public IP and query-port setting, commonly
2305. - Check for carrier-grade NAT or another device already using the forwarded port.
Players are rejected after mods are added
- Compare client and server mod versions and load order.
- Check whether the mod belongs in
-modor-serverMod. - Install missing keys/signatures and review dependency errors in the RPT log.
- Remove the newest mod and retest; adding changes one at a time identifies the conflict.
Updates appear to erase settings
Keep serverDZ.cfg, mission/custom files and persistence outside any disposable staging directory, and back them up before every update. Confirm the service’s WorkingDirectory, -profiles and -storage paths so it is reading the files you edited.
Vanilla or modded: decide before you size and maintain the host
| Consideration | Vanilla | Modded |
|---|---|---|
| Authentication | Usually simpler for the base server installation. | Workshop downloads may require an authenticated Steam account. |
| Storage | Closer to the installed server and mission footprint. | Needs space for mod archives, extracted files, keys, logs and backups. |
| Updates | Primarily the SteamCMD server update cycle. | Game and mod versions must remain compatible; update order matters. |
| Troubleshooting | Fewer variables when diagnosing ports and missions. | Dependencies, signatures, load order and client installation add failure points. |
| Player setup | Players can connect without additional Workshop downloads. | Every required client mod must be installed at a matching version. |
If your priority is a reliable first server, stay vanilla until connections, logs, backups and restart behavior are proven. Add mod content only when you are prepared to maintain its compatibility and storage requirements.
What’s actually slowing this PC down?
Pick the symptom - the matching free tool is one click away.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I run a DayZ dedicated server on Ubuntu?
Yes. Linux hosting is supported. Install the distribution’s required 32-bit libraries, SteamCMD and the DayZ server files, then run the service under a normal account rather than root.
What SteamCMD app ID installs the DayZ server?
The dedicated-server app ID is 223350. Use it with +app_update 223350 for both installation and updates.
Which ports should I forward?
A commonly documented setup forwards UDP 2302-2305. The game port is commonly 2302, while 2305 is a documented Steam query-port example. Match your firewall and router rules to the ports in your own configuration.
Why should the server not run as root?
Bohemia warns not to run it as root. A dedicated unprivileged account limits the operating-system access available if the game process or a mod is compromised.
Recommended Free Tools
Quick Recap
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.
