How to Host a Project Zomboid Server – Step-by-Step Guide for Survivors
If you want full control over your apocalypse, hosting your own Project Zomboid server is the best way to do it. A dedicated server lets you customize sandbox settings, manage mods, and survive with friends in a persistent world that’s always online.
This guide explains how to host your own Project Zomboid server and why Citadel Servers is a great partner for your setup.
Step 1: Pick a Reliable Hosting Provider
Project Zomboid is a deep survival simulation that relies on server stability, especially with multiple players and large mod lists.
When choosing a hosting provider, focus on:
Performance: Strong single-core CPU performance and fast SSD or NVMe storage help keep simulation and zombie AI running smoothly.
Network Quality: Low latency and reliable uptime are crucial for combat, driving, and co-op survival.
Ease of Management: A simple control panel makes it easy to manage sandbox settings and mods.
Support Availability: 24/7 technical support ensures help is available whenever something goes wrong.
Citadel Servers provides all of the above, offering hardware and infrastructure optimized for survival games like Project Zomboid.
Step 2: Order Your Hosting Plan
Once you’ve decided to host with Citadel Servers, getting started is simple:
1. Go to the Project Zomboid hosting page.
2. Choose how many player slots you want.
3. Pick your server location closest to your player base for the best ping.
4. Select any extras, like process priority, premium support, etc.
5. Proceed to checkout, once payment is confirmed, your server deploys automatically.
You’ll receive an email with your control panel login details and connection info within minutes.
Step 3: Configure Your Server
After deployment, it’s time to personalize your world:
- Follow our Quick Start Guide
Set your server name, password, and admin account.
Adjust sandbox settings such as zombie population, loot rarity, infection rules, and time progression.
Install and manage mods easily using the built-in Mod Manager or by uploading files via FTP/SFTP.
Configure map options and mod load order for stable gameplay.
All settings are managed through the Citadel Control Panel, designed for both beginners and experienced server admins.
Step 4: Launch and Play
When your settings are ready, start your server from the panel and invite your friends.
Players can connect via the in-game server browser or by entering the server’s IP and port.
You can monitor activity, manage users, and restart your world at any time, all through the same web interface.
Why Host with Citadel Servers
Hosting Project Zomboid with Citadel Servers gives you the performance, flexibility, and reliability needed to survive the long haul. Our servers are built to handle large worlds, heavy modding, and persistent multiplayer gameplay
What Makes Us Stand Out
Instant Setup: Your server is deployed automatically after payment, so you can start surviving within minutes.
High-Performance Hardware: Dedicated CPU resources and ultra-fast NVMe SSD storage ensure smooth simulation and minimal lag.
Global Data Centers: Multiple worldwide locations help provide the best possible connection for your group.
Full Access & Mod Freedom: Complete file access lets you customize, upload, and fine-tune every aspect of your server.
One-Click Mod Manager: Easily browse, install, update, and manage mods without dealing with complicated tools.
Automated Backups & Easy Restarts: Keep your save safe with regular backups and manage restarts directly from the control panel.
24/7 Expert Support: Our technical team is available around the clock to help resolve issues and keep your server running.
Your Project Zomboid world deserves a strong, stable foundation and that’s exactly what Citadel Servers delivers: performance, control, and reliability built for serious survivors.
Order your Project Zomboid Server now
