Project Zomboid Build 42 is now available on the public Stable branch, making it much easier to set up a long-term multiplayer server without opting into the previous Unstable beta.
If you want to host a Project Zomboid Build 42 server yourself, you will need to install the dedicated server files, configure your server, and make sure your network allows other players to connect.
This guide walks through the entire self-hosting process from the beginning and also explains how dedicated Project Zomboid hosting can remove most of the technical setup.
How To Self-Host A Project Zomboid Build 42 Stable Server
Self-hosting gives you full control over the machine running your Project Zomboid server, but it also means handling the installation, networking, configuration, updates, and backups yourself.
Step 1: Download SteamCMD
SteamCMD is Valve's command-line tool for downloading and updating dedicated game servers.
Create a folder somewhere easy to find, such as:
C:\SteamCMD
Download SteamCMD and extract it into that folder.
Then launch:
steamcmd.exe
SteamCMD may download additional files when it runs for the first time. Wait until the command prompt is ready before continuing.
Step 2: Log In To SteamCMD
Enter:
login anonymous
Project Zomboid Dedicated Server can be installed using anonymous SteamCMD access, so you do not need to sign into your personal Steam account.
Step 3: Choose Your Server Installation Folder
Next, tell SteamCMD where you want your Project Zomboid server installed.
For example:
force_install_dir C:\PZServer
This means all dedicated server files will be installed inside:
C:\PZServer
You can use another location if you prefer, but keeping the server in a clearly named folder makes future updates and troubleshooting easier.
Step 4: Install Build 42 Stable
Project Zomboid Dedicated Server uses Steam App ID:
380870
Because Build 42 Stable is now on the default public Steam branch, you do not need to enter a beta branch name.
Enter:
app_update 380870 validate
SteamCMD will download the current Stable dedicated server files and verify the installation.
Once the installation completes, enter:
quit
Step 5: Start Your Project Zomboid Server
Open the folder you selected earlier:
C:\PZServer
Find:
StartServer64.bat
Double-click it to launch the dedicated server.
The first startup will create the additional save and configuration files needed by Project Zomboid.
You may also be asked to create an administrator password. Make sure you use a secure password because this account provides administrative control over the server.
Step 6: Configure Your Server
Project Zomboid normally stores its server configuration under:
C:\Users\YourUsername\Zomboid\Server\
For a default server called servertest, the main files include:
servertest.ini
servertest_SandboxVars.lua
The .ini file contains standard multiplayer settings such as server visibility, player limits, passwords, PvP, mods, and other server options.
The _SandboxVars.lua file controls gameplay settings such as zombies, loot, XP, vehicles, infection, electricity, water, and world rules.
Stop the server before manually editing these files, save your changes, and then restart the server.
Configure Your Network For Multiplayer
If you are self-hosting from home, installing the server is only part of the process. Other players also need to be able to reach the machine through your network.
Project Zomboid commonly uses:
16261 UDP
16262 UDP
You may need to forward the necessary ports through your router and allow the Project Zomboid dedicated server through your firewall.
The exact port-forwarding process varies depending on your router.
Players outside your local network will generally connect using your public IP address.
If they cannot connect, check that the server is running, the required ports are open, your firewall allows the connection, and everyone is running the same Project Zomboid version.
How To Host Build 42 With Dedicated Project Zomboid Hosting
Using dedicated Build 42 Project Zomboid hosting makes the setup considerably easier because the server is already installed when you purchase it.
With Pine Hosting, your Project Zomboid server is installed and ready to manage through the hosting panel, saving you most of the manual setup, so you can simply start configuring your server settings and sandbox settings to begin playing.
If you ever want to run another Project Zomboid version, you can also change the server's Steam branch through the panel rather than manually changing SteamCMD commands.
From the server panel, you can manage settings, sandbox options, Workshop mods, backups, updates, restarts, and other server features without directly managing the underlying installation.
This makes Project Zomboid server hosting particularly useful for beginners who want a dedicated multiplayer server without learning command-line administration or home networking first.
Host Your Build 42 Stable Server With Pine Hosting
Self-hosting a Build 42 Stable server gives you full control, but it also means managing SteamCMD, server files, networking, updates, and the machine itself.
With Pine Hosting's Project Zomboid hosting, your server is already installed and ready to configure through an easy-to-use control panel.
You can manage your server settings, change branches, install mods, create backups, schedule updates, and keep your multiplayer world online without leaving your personal computer running.
Whether you are starting a private Build 42 world with friends or building a larger modded community, dedicated Project Zomboid hosting gives you a much simpler way to get started.
Start your Project Zomboid Build 42 Stable server with Pine Hosting and get your multiplayer world online today.
