How to Set Up a Garry's Mod Dedicated Server (Full Guide)

Setting up a Garry's Mod dedicated server allows you to run a persistent multiplayer server with full control over addons, gamemodes, and configuration. This guide walks you through setting up and configuring your server using the HostByte Game Panel.

Step 1: Access Your Game Panel

1. Go to game.hostbyte.net
2. Log in using your account details
3. Select your Garry's Mod server
4. Click Manage to open the panel

Step 2: Start the Server for Initial Setup

1. Click Start on the main dashboard
2. Wait for the server to fully install and boot
3. Open the Console to monitor progress

Note: The first startup may take longer as the server installs required files.

Step 3: Configure Your Server (server.cfg)

1. Go to File Manager
2. Navigate to:

/garrysmod/cfg/server.cfg

3. If the file does not exist, create a new file named server.cfg
4. Add basic configuration:

hostname "My Garry's Mod Server" sv_password "" sv_lan 0 sbox_maxplayers 16

5. Save the file
6. Restart your server

Tip: This file controls your server name, access, and basic settings.

Step 4: Choose and Install a Gamemode

You can install a gamemode using the built-in Mod Manager.

1. Go to Tools → Mod Manager
2. Select a gamemode such as DarkRP, Prop Hunt, or Hide and Seek
3. Click install and wait for completion
4. Restart your server

Note: Some gamemodes may require additional addons or content packs.

Step 5: Set Your Server Map and Gamemode

1. Go to Startup settings
2. Set your map (for example):

gm_flatgrass

3. Set your gamemode (for example):

darkrp

4. Save changes
5. Restart your server

Tip: Make sure the gamemode matches what you installed.

Step 6: Install Admin Tools (ULX & ULIB)

Admin tools allow you to manage players, permissions, and moderation.

1. Go to Tools → Mod Manager
2. Install ULX & ULIB
3. Restart your server

Once installed, you can assign admin roles in-game or through configuration.

Step 7: Join Your Server

1. Go to Server Details in your panel
2. Copy your IP Address and Port
3. Open Garry's Mod
4. Press The ~ (tilde) key to open the console
5. Type the following command: connect 123.45.67.89:27015
6. Press Enter to connect

Troubleshooting

Server Not Starting

• Check console for errors
• Ensure installation completed fully
• Restart the server

Gamemode Not Loading

• Verify gamemode name is correct
• Ensure it is installed
• Restart after changes

Players Missing Content

• Install required addons
• Use Workshop collections
• Ensure all dependencies are installed

Next Steps

• Install additional addons and workshop content
• Configure advanced server settings
• Set up FastDL for faster downloads
• Optimize performance for more players

Getting Help

• Knowledge Base: Explore more guides for configuration, setup, and troubleshooting.
• Support Ticket: Open a ticket from your HostByte account if you need assistance.
• Discord: Join our community below.

• Status Page: Check live updates at status.hostbyte.net.