Building Your First FiveM Server: A 2024 Complete Guide

A comprehensive step-by-step guide to setting up your first FiveM server in 2024, from initial setup to going live with players.

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Building Your First FiveM Server: A 2024 Complete Guide

Starting your first FiveM server can feel overwhelming with all the options, configurations, and technical requirements involved. This comprehensive guide will walk you through every step of the process, from initial planning to launching your server and welcoming your first players.

Before You Begin: Planning Your Server

Define Your Vision

Before diving into technical setup, it's crucial to have a clear vision for your server:

What type of experience do you want to create?

  • Roleplay Server: Character-driven immersive experiences
  • Racing Server: Competitive racing with custom tracks
  • PvP/Combat Server: Action-focused gameplay
  • Creative/Building Server: Sandbox construction experiences
  • Mini-Game Hub: Multiple game modes and activities

Who is your target audience?

  • Serious roleplayers looking for immersion
  • Casual gamers wanting fun experiences
  • Competitive players seeking challenges
  • Content creators needing interesting scenarios
  • Friends looking for private experiences

What makes your server unique?

  • Custom scripts and features
  • Specific themes or settings
  • Unique gameplay mechanics
  • Community culture and values
  • Professional production quality

Resource Planning

Time Investment

  • Initial setup: 10-20 hours for basic server
  • Ongoing maintenance: 5-10 hours per week
  • Community management: Variable based on player count
  • Content development: Ongoing as needed

Financial Considerations

  • Server hosting: $15-100+ per month
  • Domain name: $10-15 per year
  • Custom scripts/resources: $0-1000+ (optional)
  • Marketing and promotion: Variable

Technical Skills Needed

  • Basic computer literacy
  • File management and FTP usage
  • Basic understanding of server administration
  • Lua scripting (for custom features)
  • Database management (for advanced features)

Step 1: Server Hosting Options

Option A: Self-Hosting (Advanced Users)

Pros:

  • Complete control over hardware
  • No monthly hosting fees
  • Unlimited customization
  • Learning experience

Cons:

  • Requires technical expertise
  • 24/7 internet and power requirements
  • Hardware maintenance costs
  • Security responsibilities

Requirements:

  • Dedicated computer or VPS
  • Static IP address
  • Minimum 8GB RAM, 100GB storage
  • Reliable internet connection (upload speed crucial)

Officially Supported FiveM Hosting Providers:

  1. ZAP-Hosting

    • Price: €15-50/month
    • Pros: Easy setup, good support, FiveM-optimized, official partner
    • Cons: Limited customization compared to VPS

  2. Nodecraft

    • Price: $10-40/month
    • Pros: User-friendly interface, good performance, official support
    • Cons: Limited advanced configuration options

  3. xREALM

    • Price: $15-45/month
    • Pros: FiveM-specialized, reliable uptime, official partner
    • Cons: Higher pricing for premium features

  4. GPORTAL

    • Price: $12-35/month
    • Pros: Global server locations, easy management, official support
    • Cons: Interface can be complex for beginners

  5. Shockbyte

    • Price: $5-8/month
    • Pros: Affordable pricing, good support, official partner
    • Cons: Performance varies by location

  6. Nitrado

    • Price: $13-40/month
    • Pros: Professional service, good uptime, official support
    • Cons: Higher cost for advanced features

Alternative Options:

  1. OVH/Hetzner (VPS)
    • Price: $10-30/month
    • Pros: More control, better value for advanced users
    • Cons: Requires server administration knowledge, not officially partnered

Option C: txAdmin Integration

Many hosting providers now offer txAdmin pre-installed, which significantly simplifies server management. txAdmin provides:

  • Web-based server management
  • Resource management interface
  • Player management tools
  • Server monitoring and logs
  • Backup and restore functionality

Step 2: Initial Server Setup

Getting Your Server Files

  1. Download the FiveM Server

    # Windows
# Download from https://runtime.fivem.net/artifacts/fivem/build_server_windows/master/
 
# Linux
wget https://runtime.fivem.net/artifacts/fivem/build_proot_linux/master/latest/fx.tar.xz
tar xf fx.tar.xz

  2. Create Your Server Directory Structure

    my-fivem-server/
├── server.cfg
├── server-data/
│   ├── resources/
│   │   ├── [essential]/
│   │   ├── [gameplay]/
│   │   └── [custom]/
│   └── cache/
└── logs/

Basic server.cfg Configuration

Create a server.cfg file with essential settings:

# Server Information
sv_hostname "^1My Awesome FiveM Server ^2[NEW PLAYER FRIENDLY]"
sv_projectName "My FiveM Server"
sv_projectDesc "Welcome to our community! Join our Discord: discord.gg/yourserver"
 
# Server Settings
sv_maxclients 48
sv_endpointprivacy true
sv_enforceGameBuild 2944
 
# Licensing and Admin
sv_licenseKey "YOUR_LICENSE_KEY_HERE"
add_ace group.admin command allow
add_ace group.admin command.quit deny
add_principal identifier.fivem:123456 group.admin # Replace with your FiveM ID
 
# Essential Resources
ensure mapmanager
ensure chat
ensure spawnmanager
ensure sessionmanager
ensure basic-gamemode
ensure hardcap
 
# Resource Categories
start [essential]
start [gameplay]
start [custom]
 
# Networking
set mysql_connection_string "server=localhost;database=fivem;userid=root;password=yourpassword"
 
# OneSync (for 32+ players)
set onesync on
 
# Game Type and Map
sets tags "roleplay, custom, community"
sets banner_detail "https://yourserver.com/banner.png"
sets banner_connecting "https://yourserver.com/connecting.png"

Getting a License Key

  1. Visit Cfx.re Keymaster
  2. Log in with your FiveM account
  3. Create a new server key
  4. Add your server's IP address
  5. Copy the license key to your server.cfg

Step 3: Essential Resources Setup

Core Resources

Download and install these essential resources:

  1. spawnmanager - Handles player spawning
  2. sessionmanager - Manages player sessions
  3. chat - Basic chat functionality
  4. mapmanager - Map loading and management
  5. hardcap - Player limit enforcement
# Download these to enhance your server:
 
# Administration
ensure vMenu                # Comprehensive admin menu
ensure EasyAdmin           # Simple admin tools
 
# Quality of Life
ensure pNotify             # Better notifications
ensure mythic_notify       # Alternative notifications
ensure progressBars        # Progress indicators
 
# Economy (Choose one)
ensure es_extended         # ESX Framework
ensure qb-core            # QBCore Framework
 
# Voice Chat
ensure pma-voice          # Proximity voice chat
ensure mumble-voip        # Alternative voice system

Resource Installation Process

  1. Download Resources

    • From GitHub repositories
    • From community forums
    • From resource marketplaces

  2. Extract to Resources Folder

    server-data/resources/[category]/resource-name/

  3. Add to server.cfg

    ensure resource-name

  4. Configure as Needed

    • Edit config files
    • Set up databases
    • Configure permissions

Most modern FiveM servers use databases for player data persistence.

Installing MySQL/MariaDB

Windows (XAMPP):

  1. Download and install XAMPP
  2. Start Apache and MySQL services
  3. Access phpMyAdmin at http://localhost/phpmyadmin

Linux (Ubuntu/Debian):

sudo apt update
sudo apt install mysql-server
sudo mysql_secure_installation

Database Resource Setup

  1. Install oxmysql

    # Add to server.cfg
ensure oxmysql
set mysql_connection_string "mysql://username:password@localhost/database_name?charset=utf8mb4"

  2. Create Database

    CREATE DATABASE fivem_server CHARACTER SET utf8mb4 COLLATE utf8mb4_unicode_ci;
CREATE USER 'fivem_user'@'localhost' IDENTIFIED BY 'secure_password';
GRANT ALL PRIVILEGES ON fivem_server.* TO 'fivem_user'@'localhost';
FLUSH PRIVILEGES;

  3. Import Framework Schema If using ESX or QBCore, import their database schemas:

    mysql -u fivem_user -p fivem_server < esx_legacy.sql

Step 5: Framework Selection and Setup

ESX Framework

ESX is mature, stable, and has extensive community resources.

Installation:

  1. Download ESX Legacy from GitHub
  2. Import database schema
  3. Configure in server.cfg: 
    ensure es_extended
ensure esx_menu_default
ensure esx_menu_dialog
ensure esx_menu_list

Pros:

  • Large community and resource library
  • Stable and well-documented
  • Professional roleplay features

Cons:

  • Can be complex for beginners
  • Performance overhead
  • Less flexible than newer frameworks

QBCore Framework

QBCore is modern, flexible, and gaining popularity.

Installation:

  1. Download QBCore from GitHub
  2. Follow their setup guide
  3. Configure in server.cfg: 
    ensure qb-core
ensure qb-multicharacter
ensure qb-spawn

Pros:

  • Modern codebase
  • Better performance
  • More flexible architecture

Cons:

  • Smaller resource library
  • Less documentation
  • Newer, potentially less stable

Standalone Approach

For simpler servers or learning purposes, you can start without a framework.

Benefits:

  • Complete control
  • Better performance
  • Learning experience
  • No unnecessary features

Drawbacks:

  • More development required
  • Fewer ready-made resources
  • Need to build everything from scratch

Step 6: Customization and Branding

Server Identity

  1. Server Name and Description Make your server stand out with clear, appealing branding.

  2. Loading Screen Create a custom loading screen with:

    • Server information
    • Rules and guidelines
    • Discord links
    • Custom graphics

  3. Spawn Points Configure where players spawn:

    -- In a spawn resource
AddEventHandler('playerSpawned', function()
    local ped = PlayerPedId()
    SetEntityCoords(ped, -269.4, -955.3, 31.2, false, false, false, true)
end)

Custom Content

  1. Vehicles

    • Download custom car packs
    • Configure handling and performance
    • Set up dealership systems

  2. Maps and MLOs

    • Custom buildings and interiors
    • Modified game world elements
    • Additional locations and areas

  3. Clothing and Accessories

    • Custom clothing options
    • Character customization items
    • Branded server merchandise

User Interface

  1. HUD Elements

    • Health and armor displays
    • Minimap customization
    • Status indicators

  2. Menus and Interactions

    • Custom interaction menus
    • Job-specific interfaces
    • Admin tools and panels

Step 7: Testing and Optimization

Local Testing

Before going live, thoroughly test your server:

  1. Start the Server

    # Windows
FXServer.exe +exec server.cfg
 
# Linux
./run.sh +exec server.cfg

  2. Connect and Test

    • Join your own server
    • Test all major systems
    • Check for errors in console
    • Verify database connections

  3. Load Testing

    • Use multiple clients if possible
    • Test with friends or community members
    • Monitor resource usage
    • Check for performance issues

Performance Optimization

  1. Resource Management

    # Monitor resource usage
resmon
 
# Profile specific resources
profiler record 500
profiler view

  2. Database Optimization

    • Use proper indexes
    • Optimize queries
    • Implement connection pooling
    • Monitor query performance

  3. Network Optimization

    • Adjust OneSync settings
    • Optimize entity streaming
    • Configure appropriate tick rates

Security Considerations

  1. Access Control

    • Secure admin privileges
    • Use proper ACE permissions
    • Implement anti-cheat measures

  2. Database Security

    • Use strong passwords
    • Limit database access
    • Regular security updates

  3. DDoS Protection

    • Use DDoS protection services
    • Configure fail2ban
    • Monitor suspicious activity

Step 8: Going Live

Pre-Launch Checklist

  • All core systems tested and working
  • Database properly configured and secured
  • Admin tools and moderation systems in place
  • Rules and guidelines documented
  • Discord server set up
  • Backup systems configured
  • Monitoring tools installed

Soft Launch Strategy

  1. Private Beta (1-2 weeks)

    • Invite trusted friends and community members
    • Test all systems under realistic conditions
    • Gather feedback and fix issues
    • Train initial moderation team

  2. Limited Public Beta (1-2 weeks)

    • Open to limited public with application process
    • Monitor server performance and stability
    • Continue gathering feedback
    • Build initial community

  3. Full Public Launch

    • Remove application requirements
    • Begin marketing and promotion
    • Monitor for issues and respond quickly
    • Celebrate with launch events

Launch Day Preparation

  1. Technical Preparation

    • Full server backup
    • Monitor system resources
    • Have troubleshooting procedures ready
    • Ensure admin team availability

  2. Community Preparation

    • Welcome procedures for new players
    • Moderation team briefing
    • FAQ documentation ready
    • Event planning for opening day

Step 9: Community Building and Growth

Building Your Community

  1. Discord Server Setup

    • Create organized channels
    • Set up role systems
    • Implement verification processes
    • Add useful bots and tools

  2. Welcome Systems

    • New player orientation
    • Mentorship programs
    • Getting started guides
    • Community introductions

  3. Regular Events

    • Weekly community events
    • Seasonal celebrations
    • Competitions and tournaments
    • Special roleplay scenarios

Marketing and Promotion

  1. Social Media Presence

    • Twitter for updates and announcements
    • Instagram for screenshots and videos
    • TikTok for short-form content
    • YouTube for longer-form content

  2. Server Listing Sites

    • FiveM server lists
    • Gaming community forums
    • Reddit communities
    • Discord server directories

  3. Content Creation

    • Encourage player screenshots/videos
    • Create highlight reels
    • Document interesting roleplay moments
    • Showcase unique server features

Monetization (Optional)

Acceptable Practices:

  • Cosmetic items and customization
  • Premium character slots
  • Queue priority
  • Exclusive areas or content

Avoid:

  • Pay-to-win mechanics
  • Essential gameplay features behind paywall
  • Excessive monetization
  • Violations of FiveM ToS

Step 10: Maintenance and Long-term Success

Regular Maintenance Tasks

Daily:

  • Monitor server performance
  • Check for errors and issues
  • Moderate community interactions
  • Respond to player reports

Weekly:

  • Update resources and security patches
  • Review server analytics
  • Plan community events
  • Backup server data

Monthly:

  • Evaluate server performance metrics
  • Review and update rules/policies
  • Plan major updates or changes
  • Analyze community feedback

Scaling and Growth

  1. Performance Scaling

    • Upgrade hardware as needed
    • Optimize resources and databases
    • Implement load balancing if necessary
    • Monitor and plan for growth

  2. Community Scaling

    • Train additional moderators
    • Implement automated systems
    • Create community leadership roles
    • Develop self-moderation tools

  3. Content Scaling

    • Regular content updates
    • Seasonal events and changes
    • Community-driven content
    • Professional development partnerships

Common Pitfalls and How to Avoid Them

  1. Technical Issues

    • Over-complex initial setup
    • Inadequate testing before launch
    • Poor resource management
    • Security vulnerabilities

  2. Community Issues

    • Inconsistent rule enforcement
    • Poor communication with players
    • Neglecting community feedback
    • Toxic behavior tolerance

  3. Management Issues

    • Burnout from over-commitment
    • Inadequate delegation
    • Poor financial planning
    • Feature creep and scope expansion

Conclusion

Building a successful FiveM server requires careful planning, technical knowledge, and community management skills. While the initial setup can be challenging, following this guide will help you create a solid foundation for your server.

Remember that success doesn't happen overnight. The most successful FiveM servers are built through consistent effort, community engagement, and continuous improvement. Focus on creating a positive experience for your players, and your community will grow naturally.

Next Steps

  1. Start Small: Begin with a basic setup and gradually add features
  2. Learn Continuously: Stay updated with FiveM developments and best practices
  3. Engage with Community: Join FiveM development communities and forums
  4. Document Everything: Keep records of configurations and procedures
  5. Have Fun: Remember why you started and enjoy the journey

Additional Resources

Need help with your FiveM server? Join our Discord community where experienced developers and server owners share knowledge and provide support.

Written by

FixFX Team

At

Tue Jun 24 2025