Project Zomboid dedicated server saves and configuration files are stored in the server’s root directory, which is the folder you specified when you installed or launched the dedicated server. On Windows this is typically C:\Users\[YourUsername]\Zomboid\Server, while on Linux it is usually /home/[YourUsername]/Zomboid/Server. This folder contains both the servertest.ini configuration file and the servertest folder with all world saves, but the exact names depend on your server name.
Understanding the Server Folder Structure
When you run a dedicated server, the game creates a folder named after your server (default is servertest). Inside that folder you will find:
- Map – contains the world chunks, including terrain, buildings, and placed items.
- Players – stores each player’s character data and inventory.
- Sandbox – holds the sandbox settings that were active when the world was created.
- Logs – server logs for troubleshooting.
- Replay – stores replay data for admin review.
The Server folder itself also contains the main configuration file (e.g., servertest.ini) and a db folder for the SQLite database that tracks global data like whitelists and bans.
Default Installation Paths by Operating System
The exact location depends on how you installed the server:
- Windows (SteamCMD or dedicated server tool):
C:\Users\[YourUsername]\Zomboid\Server - Linux (SteamCMD):
/home/[YourUsername]/Zomboid/Server - Linux (root user):
/root/Zomboid/Server - macOS:
/Users/[YourUsername]/Zomboid/Server
If you used a hosting provider, the files are typically accessible via FTP or a file manager in their control panel, often under a path like /home/container/Zomboid/Server.
How to Find Your Server Folder
If you cannot locate the folder, the easiest way is to check the server console output. When the server starts, it prints the full path to the Server directory. Alternatively, you can search your system for a file named servertest.ini (or your server name followed by .ini). On Windows, use dir /s servertest.ini from a command prompt; on Linux, use find / -name "servertest.ini" 2>/dev/null.
Editing Configuration Files Safely
The main configuration file is servertest.ini. You can edit it with any text editor, but always stop the server first to avoid overwriting changes. Common settings include:
- Port – default 16261 for UDP, plus 16262 for Steam query.
- MaxPlayers – maximum concurrent players.
- PauseEmpty – whether the server pauses when no players are online.
- ServerName – the public name shown in the server list.
After editing, restart the server. If you make a syntax error, the server may fail to start; keep a backup of the original file.
Backing Up Your World and Configuration
To back up your server, copy the entire Server folder (or at least the folder named after your server) to a safe location. For a full backup, include the db folder and the .ini file. It is recommended to back up while the server is offline to avoid file corruption. You can automate backups with a simple script that copies the folder to a different drive or cloud storage.
Common Problems and Solutions
Problem: Server doesn’t appear in the server list. Check that the port is open and the ServerName is set correctly. Also verify that Public is set to true in the .ini file.
Problem: Lost player data after update. Updates rarely touch the Server folder, but if you reinstalled the server, make sure you copied the correct folder back. Always back up before updating.
Problem: Can’t find the folder on a rented server. Use the file manager or FTP credentials provided by your host. The path is often /home/container/Zomboid/Server.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How do I change my server name?
A: Edit the ServerName line in your servertest.ini file, then restart the server. The new name will appear in the server browser.
Q: Can I move my server to another machine?
A: Yes. Copy the entire Server folder to the new machine, install the same version of Project Zomboid dedicated server, and place the folder in the same relative path (e.g., Zomboid/Server).
Q: Why is my save file so large?
A: World chunks and player data accumulate over time. The map folder contains all explored areas, so the larger the world, the bigger the save. You can reduce size by deleting old logs or replay files, but be careful not to delete essential data.
Q: What is the difference between the servertest.ini and sandbox files?
A: servertest.ini contains server-specific settings like ports and player limits. The sandbox folder contains the game world settings (zombie population, loot rarity, etc.) that were chosen when the world was created. Changing sandbox settings after world creation requires editing the sandbox files, not the .ini.
Q: How do I reset my server world?
A: Delete the folder named after your server (e.g., servertest) inside the Server directory, but keep the .ini file. The next time you start the server, it will generate a fresh world with the same settings.
Related
Method: the standard formula for this calculation, rounded as each result states. See how the calculators work or report an error.
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