💀 Setup 7 Days to Die Server — Zombie Survival Multiplayer
Deploy a dedicated 7 Days to Die server for open-world zombie survival, base building, and crafting with friends in a persistent horde-night world.
📦 Resources & Setup Scripts
Grab the automated bash script from GitHub to follow along with the video.
Quick Install:
wget https://raw.githubusercontent.com/mhmdali94/Docker/main/gaming/7-days-to-die/7dtd-ubuntu.sh
chmod +x 7dtd-ubuntu.sh
sudo bash 7dtd-ubuntu.shTutorial Steps
1 Download the Script
Download the automated install script that handles Docker setup, pulls the 7 Days to Die server image, and configures the container with sensible defaults.
wget https://raw.githubusercontent.com/mhmdali94/Docker/main/gaming/7-days-to-die/7dtd-ubuntu.sh2 Make it Executable
Grant the script execution permissions before running it.
chmod +x 7dtd-ubuntu.sh3 Run the Installer
The script installs Docker if needed, then sets up the 7 Days to Die dedicated server automatically. Initial world generation may take several minutes.
sudo bash 7dtd-ubuntu.sh4 Configure the Server
Edit serverconfig.xml to customize your server name, password, and zombie settings:
# Edit server configuration
nano /opt/7dtd/serverconfig.xml
# Key settings to customize:
# ServerName — your server's display name
# ServerPassword — leave empty for public, or set a password
# MaxUncheckedZombies — controls zombie density5 Connect to Your Server
Open 7 Days to Die, go to Join a Game, then Connect to IP and enter your server address:
<your-server-ip>:26900Ports Used
| Port | Purpose |
|---|---|
| 26900 TCP/UDP | Game connection port |
| 26901 UDP | Steam networking |
| 26902 UDP | Steam networking |
| 26903 UDP | Steam networking |
Overview
7 Days to Die is an open-world survival horror and crafting game combining FPS, RPG, and tower defense. Players gather resources, craft weapons and tools, build fortified bases, and survive increasingly difficult zombie hordes every 7th day. A dedicated server allows persistent multiplayer for a group.
Why Use It
Self-hosting 7 Days to Die gives your group a persistent world with your own horde night schedule, loot respawn settings, and difficulty. You can run a heavily cooperative or PvP-enabled server, control the day cycle speed, and ensure the world persists even when no one is online.
When You Need It
Who Should Use It
Real Use Cases
Main Features
How to Use After Installation
Security Best Practices
Ports and Firewall Notes
7 Days to Die uses TCP and UDP ports 26900, 26901, and 26902 for game connections and Steam browser. Open all three on both TCP and UDP. Telnet management uses port 8081 — keep this firewalled from public access.
Backup and Maintenance
Common Mistakes
Troubleshooting
Alternatives
Alternatives include peer-to-peer hosting via the game (host stays online), commercial game server hosts, and single-player with self-found mods. Self-hosting gives persistence and full control over settings and mods.
When Not to Use It
Avoid self-hosting 7DtD if you have less than 8 GB RAM — the server is memory-intensive especially with larger map sizes. Also avoid if you cannot maintain the server through frequent patches from The Fun Pimps.
PrismaTechWork Professional Help
PrismaTechWork provides end-to-end infrastructure services — from initial deployment and security hardening to ongoing monitoring, automated backups, and dedicated support. Whether you need a single-server setup or a multi-site network, our team ensures your infrastructure is built right, secured properly, and maintained reliably.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I configure horde night difficulty?
In serverconfig.xml, adjust BloodMoonEnemyCount (how many zombies spawn per player on horde night), GameDifficulty (0 to 5 scale), and EnemySpawnMode. For a challenging horde, increase BloodMoonEnemyCount and set GameDifficulty to 4 or 5. Reduce it for casual play.
Can I run mods like Darkness Falls on a dedicated server?
Yes. Overhaul mods like Darkness Falls, Ravenhearst, and Undead Legacy work on dedicated servers. Copy the mod files to the server's Mods directory and restart. All connecting players must have the same mod installed. Mod instructions usually include specific server installation steps.
What is Alloc's Server Manager?
Alloc's Server Fixes and Server Manager is a popular mod that adds a web-based admin panel for 7 Days to Die servers. It shows a live map of the world, player positions, player statistics, and provides admin tools for kicks, bans, and region control — all accessible from a browser without using telnet.
How many players can a 7DtD server support?
7 Days to Die supports up to 8 players in a standard configuration, configurable up to higher limits in serverconfig.xml. However, performance degrades with more players, especially on horde night when many zombies spawn. For 8 players, plan for 8 GB RAM and a 4-core CPU with a fast clock speed.
Can I set loot to respawn on my server?
Yes. Set LootRespawnDays in serverconfig.xml to control how often loot respawns in containers. Setting it to 7 respawns loot every in-game week. You can also adjust LootAbundance (percentage modifier) and AirDropFrequency for supply drops. These settings allow casual servers to remain well-stocked.