How to host a 7 Days to Die server on Windows
This guide covers running your own 7 Days to Die dedicated server on a Windows PC by hand: what you need, which ports to open, where the config lives, and how to keep it updated and modded. At the end there's the shortcut: doing the same thing in Rackd.
Requirements
- Windows 10/11 64-bit, 8 GB RAM or more (larger and random-gen maps use more).
- SteamCMD. The 7 Days to Die Dedicated Server is Steam app
294420and downloads anonymously. - A wired connection and a router you can log in to for port forwarding.
Default ports
| What | Port | Protocol |
|---|---|---|
| Game port | 26900 | TCP + UDP |
| Additional game ports | 26901–26903 | UDP |
Manual setup, step by step
1. Install with SteamCMD
steamcmd +force_install_dir C:\7DTDServer +login anonymous +app_update 294420 validate +quit
2. Configure
Edit serverconfig.xml: ServerName, ServerPassword, ServerPort (26900), ServerMaxPlayerCount, GameWorld, WorldGenSeed, GameDifficulty. Keep a copy, because a validate can overwrite it.
3. Start it
Run startdedicated.bat, or launch 7DaysToDieServer.exe -quit -batchmode -nographics -dedicated -configfile=serverconfig.xml. Admins go in serveradmin.xml in the saves folder.
4. Firewall and port forwarding
Forward TCP/UDP 26900 and UDP 26901–26903 to the host and allow the server exe in Windows Firewall.
5. Updates
Re-run SteamCMD. Major versions usually need a fresh world, so back up saves first and check the patch notes.
6. Mods
Put mod folders (each with a ModInfo.xml) in the server's Mods folder. Server-side-only XML mods work for everyone; mods with custom assets or code must also be installed by each player, with Easy Anti-Cheat turned off.
Port forwarding tips
- Give the host PC a fixed local IP (a DHCP reservation in your router) before you create forwarding rules.
- If your router's WAN IP doesn't match what whatismyip shows, your ISP is using CGNAT and port forwarding won't work. Ask for a public IP or use a tunnel/VPN.
- Test from outside your network (a phone on mobile data), since many routers don't support loopback connections to your own public IP.
Or do it in a few clicks with Rackd
Rackd is a Windows 10/11 desktop app that does the steps above for you:
- One-click install: pick 7 Days to Die, name the server, and Rackd downloads the files through SteamCMD and starts it headless with serverconfig.xml.
- Rackd Connect: asks your router to forward the server's port over UPnP and shows you the address to share, so you don't have to dig through router menus. (If your router has UPnP off or you're behind CGNAT, you'll still need the manual steps.)
- Scheduled updates that never kick players: pick an update window. If anyone is online, Rackd waits and retries instead of shutting the server on them.
- Backups: zip the server folder in one click and restore it when something goes wrong.
- Live console so you can watch the log and send commands.
Download Rackd for Windows 7-day free trial, no card required.
See all games Rackd supports or browse more server hosting guides.