Disable Anti-Cheat on a Project Zomboid Server

Project Zomboid’s built-in anti-cheat (often called “PZ Anti-Cheat”) checks for modified game files, debug mode, and other client-side tampering when players connect to a server. If you run a private server with trusted friends or want to allow mods that the anti-cheat flags, you can turn it off. This guide shows you exactly how to disable it, what settings to change, and what to watch out for.

What You’ll Need

• Access to the server’s console or command line (if it’s a dedicated server).
• File access to the server’s installation folder (if it’s hosted on your own machine or a file manager from a hosting provider).
• Admin rights on the server (to edit files or run commands).

Step-by-Step

1. Locate the server settings file. The main configuration file is named servertest.ini (or servertest.ini if you named your server differently). It’s usually in the Server folder inside the game’s installation directory. For Steam dedicated servers, the path is typically steamapps/common/Project Zomboid Dedicated Server/Server/.
2. Open the file with a text editor. Use Notepad++, Visual Studio Code, or even Notepad on Windows. On Linux, use nano or vim.
3. Find the anti-cheat setting. Look for a line that contains AntiCheatProtection. If it doesn’t exist, you can add it under the [ServerOptions] section (or create that section if needed).
4. Set it to false. Change the line to AntiCheatProtection=false. If the line already exists, make sure there are no leading spaces before the key. Save the file.
5. Restart the server. Fully shut down the server process, then start it again. The setting is read at server startup, so a restart is required.
6. Verify it worked. When the server starts, look for a line in the console that says something like “Anti-cheat protection disabled” or check the server log. You can also join the server and try to use a mod that was previously blocked.

Common Mistakes

• Editing the wrong file. Make sure you’re editing the server’s .ini file, not the client’s options.ini in your local game folder. The server file is in the Server folder.
• Using the wrong key name. Some older guides mention UseAntiCheat or AntiCheat. The correct key for current versions is AntiCheatProtection.
• Not restarting the server. The setting only takes effect on a fresh server start. A simple map reload won’t apply it.
• Forgetting to save the file. If you close the editor without saving, the change won’t apply. Double-check the file after saving.

Tips

• Back up the file. Before making changes, copy servertest.ini to a backup location. If something goes wrong, you can restore it.
• Use a hosting panel. If you rent a server, many panels (like those from popular hosting providers) have a toggle for anti-cheat in the control panel. Look under “Settings” or “Server Configuration”.
• Consider the risks. Disabling anti-cheat means players can use debug mode or modified clients. Only do this if you trust everyone on the server.
• Check for mods. Some mods require anti-cheat to be off. If a mod fails to work, this is often the reason.

Troubleshooting

• Setting not working after restart. Make sure the line is exactly AntiCheatProtection=false with no trailing spaces. Also, check if the server has a separate config file per save (e.g., servertest_Sandbox.ini) – the anti-cheat setting is usually in the main file, but some hosts use a different file.
• Server won’t start after editing. If the server crashes on startup, you may have introduced a syntax error. Restore the backup file and try again, or check the server log for the exact line that caused the issue.
• Players still get kicked for anti-cheat. This can happen if the server is still running the old config. Ensure the server process is completely stopped (not just paused) and restart it.
• Can’t find the AntiCheatProtection line. If the line is missing, add it under [ServerOptions]. If that section doesn’t exist, create it at the end of the file.

Frequently Asked Questions

Will disabling anti-cheat affect my server’s performance?

No. The anti-cheat runs client-side checks; disabling it may slightly reduce server load, but the difference is negligible.

Can I re-enable anti-cheat later?

Yes. Simply change the setting back to true and restart the server.

Does this work for both Windows and Linux servers?

Yes. The configuration file is the same regardless of the operating system.

Is there a way to disable anti-cheat without editing files?

If you’re using a dedicated server, you can also pass the argument -antigrief or -noantiCheat when starting the server, but the file method is more reliable and persistent.

Will this allow cheats like spawning items?

No. Disabling anti-cheat only prevents the client integrity checks. Admin commands are still governed by your server’s admin permissions.

My server is hosted by a company; can I still do this?

Yes, if you have file access or a control panel. If not, contact your host’s support to ask them to change the setting for you.

Related

• Secure Alternatives to Email for Sharing Sensitive Research Files
• Undo Accidental Deleted Files: 7 Ways
• Track 0 Bad Repair & Data Recovery Guide