Hello and welcome to our guide on how to host a Gmod server for your friends. Gmod, short for Garry’s Mod, is a popular sandbox game developed by Facepunch Studios. With a Gmod server, you can host your own game with your friends and customize the experience to your liking. In this journal article, we will guide you through the steps you need to take to set up and host your own Gmod server for friends.
Section 1: Preparing to Host a Gmod Server
Before we dive into the details of how to host a Gmod server for friends, there are a few things you need to prepare in advance. Here are the steps you need to take:
Step 1: Check Your Computer Specifications
One of the first things you need to check is if your computer is capable of hosting a Gmod server. Here are the recommended specifications for hosting a Gmod server:
| Specs | Minimum | Recommended |
|---|---|---|
| CPU | 1.5 GHz | 2.4 GHz |
| RAM | 4 GB | 8 GB |
| Storage | 40 GB | 80 GB |
| Operating System | Windows 7 or newer | Windows 10 or newer |
If your computer meets these specifications, then you are good to go. If not, you may need to upgrade some hardware components to ensure a smooth hosting experience.
Step 2: Acquire Gmod Server Files
The next step is to acquire the Gmod server files, which you can download from the official Gmod website. Make sure to download the version that corresponds to your operating system.
Step 3: Set Up Port Forwarding
Port forwarding enables your server to be visible to the internet so that your friends can join it. You will need to forward port 27015 on your router for UDP traffic to your computer’s IP address. The exact steps for port forwarding may vary depending on your router, so make sure to consult your router manual or search for instructions online.
Step 4: Install Firewall and Antivirus Exclusions
Firewalls and antivirus programs can sometimes interfere with the Gmod server’s functionality. To prevent this from happening, you need to add exclusions for the Gmod server files in your security software. Make sure to refer to your security software’s documentation on how to do this.
Step 5: Obtain a Dedicated IP Address
A dedicated IP address makes it easier for your friends to connect to your server, as they won’t have to type in a different IP address every time you restart your computer or router. You can obtain a dedicated IP address from your internet service provider (ISP) or using a dynamic DNS service.
Section 2: Setting Up a Gmod Server
Now that you have prepared your computer and acquired the necessary files, it’s time to set up your Gmod server. Here’s what you need to do:
Step 1: Extract the Gmod Server Files
After downloading the Gmod server files, extract them to a folder on your computer. Make sure to keep the folder in a location that is easy to access.
Step 2: Configure the Server Settings
Next, you need to configure the server settings to your liking. Open the server.cfg file located in the Gmod server files folder using a text editor and modify the settings according to your preferences. Here are some of the most important settings you may want to change:
| Setting | Description |
|---|---|
| hostname | The name of your server |
| rcon_password | The password for remote console access |
| sv_password | The password for joining the server |
| maxplayers | The maximum number of players allowed on the server |
| gamemode | The game mode to be played on the server (e.g. sandbox, darkrp, etc.) |
Save the changes you made to the server.cfg file.
Step 3: Launch the Server
After configuring the server settings, launch the Gmod server by running the srcds.exe file located in the Gmod server files folder. Wait for the server to finish loading, which may take a few minutes.
Section 3: Connecting to a Gmod Server
Now that your Gmod server is up and running, it’s time to invite your friends to play. Here’s how:
Share your dedicated IP address or dynamic DNS address with your friends so that they can connect to your Gmod server. They can do this by typing the IP address or DNS address in the server browser within Gmod. Make sure to also give them any necessary passwords to connect to the server.
Step 2: Have Fun!
With your Gmod server up and running and your friends connected, it’s time to have some fun! Explore the sandbox world and customize the experience to your liking.
FAQs
1. Can I host a Gmod server on a virtual private server (VPS)?
Yes, you can host a Gmod server on a VPS. However, you will need to ensure that the VPS meets the recommended specifications for hosting a Gmod server.
2. Can I use custom addons and mods on my Gmod server?
Yes, you can use custom addons and mods on your Gmod server. Simply download the addons and mods you want and place them in the addons folder within your Gmod server files folder. Make sure to also enable these addons and mods in the server.cfg file.
3. How many players can join my Gmod server?
The maximum number of players allowed on a Gmod server depends on the server’s host computer specifications and the settings configured in the server.cfg file.
4. How do I change the map on my Gmod server?
You can change the map on your Gmod server by typing the map name in the console or by adding the map name to the server.cfg file. Here’s an example command to change the map to gm_flatgrass:
map gm_flatgrass
5. How do I install addons and mods on my Gmod server?
To install addons and mods on your Gmod server, simply download the addons and mods you want and place them in the addons folder within your Gmod server files folder. Make sure to also enable these addons and mods in the server.cfg file.
Conclusion
Congratulations! You now have the knowledge and skills to set up and host your own Gmod server for your friends. Remember to follow the steps outlined in this guide carefully and to consult any necessary documentation before making changes to your server. With your Gmod server up and running, you can explore the sandbox world with your friends and customize the experience to your liking.