How to Host an Arma Reforger Server: Complete Guide (2025)

Arma Reforger is Bohemia Interactive’s latest military simulation game, built on the new Enfusion engine as a stepping stone to Arma 4. Hosting your own server gives you full control over scenarios, mods, and the gameplay experience for your community.

What you’ll learn:

• Hardware requirements for Arma Reforger servers
• Complete installation guide (Windows & Linux)
• Server configuration and optimization
• Admin commands and management tools
• Mod installation via Workshop
• Troubleshooting common issues

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Table of Contents

1. What is Arma Reforger?
2. Why Host Your Own Server?
3. Hardware Requirements
4. Hosting Options
5. Installing on Windows
6. Installing on Linux
7. Server Configuration
8. Scenarios and Game Modes
9. Admin Tools and Commands
10. Installing Mods
11. Performance Optimization
12. Troubleshooting

---

What is Arma Reforger?

Arma Reforger is a military simulation game set in the 1980s Cold War era on the fictional island of Everon. It’s the first Arma game built on Bohemia’s new Enfusion engine.

Key Features:

• 64-player multiplayer battles
• Combined arms warfare - Infantry, vehicles, helicopters
• Large open-world map - 51 km² Everon island
• Game Master mode - Dynamic mission creation
• Workshop support - Extensive modding
• Cross-platform - PC and Xbox (separate servers)
• Realistic simulation - Ballistics, stamina, medical system

Server Types:

• Conflict - Persistent territory control (most popular)
• Combat Ops - Generated PvE missions
• Capture and Hold - Objective-based PvP
• Game Master - Live mission editing
• Custom scenarios - Community-created

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Why Host Your Own Server?

Benefits of Your Own Arma Reforger Server:

🎮 Complete Control

• Choose scenarios and mods
• Set custom rules and settings
• Whitelist for clan/community
• Create unique gameplay experiences

👥 Community Building

• Private space for your group
• Host training sessions
• Competitive matches
• Persistent progress (Conflict mode)

⚙️ Customization

• Adjust respawn times
• Modify vehicle counts
• Change weather and time
• Enable/disable features

🎯 Specialized Gameplay

• Milsim operations
• Training servers
• PvE-only or PvP-only
• Role-play scenarios

📊 Server Management

• Full admin access
• Ban troublemakers
• Monitor performance
• Backup and restore

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Hardware Requirements

Arma Reforger uses the new Enfusion engine which is more optimized than Arma 3’s Real Virtuality engine, but still demanding.

Minimum Requirements (32 Players)

CPU: Intel i5-9600K or AMD Ryzen 5 3600
     - 4 cores / 6 threads minimum
     - 3.5GHz+ base clock
     - Strong single-core performance

RAM: 8GB DDR4
     - Dedicated to server only
     - 16GB recommended for stability

Storage: 20GB SSD
         - 10GB for game files
         - 10GB for logs and mods
         - NVMe preferred

Network: 50 Mbps upload
         - 32 players = ~25-40 Mbps
         - Low latency important (<40ms)

OS: Windows Server 2019+ or Ubuntu 20.04+

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Recommended Requirements (64 Players)

CPU: Intel i7-11700K or AMD Ryzen 7 5800X
     - 8 cores / 16 threads
     - 4.0GHz+ boost clock
     - Latest gen preferred

RAM: 16GB DDR4
     - 3200MHz or faster
     - 32GB for multiple servers

Storage: 50GB NVMe SSD
         - Faster load times
         - Better performance
         - Room for mods

Network: 100 Mbps dedicated
         - 1 Gbps for multiple servers
         - DDoS protection recommended

OS: Windows Server 2022 or Ubuntu 22.04 LTS

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Performance Expectations

RAM Usage by Player Count:

• 16 players: 4-6GB
• 32 players: 6-8GB
• 48 players: 8-12GB
• 64 players: 10-14GB

CPU Usage:

• Moderate during normal gameplay
• Spikes during heavy combat
• AI increases load significantly
• Game Master mode is CPU-heavy

Network Usage:

• ~0.5-1 Mbps per player upload
• Position updates constant
• Vehicle physics sync
• Voice chat (if enabled)

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Hosting Options

Option 1: Managed Game Server Hosting (Easiest)

Top Providers:

Mamba Host - Best Value ⭐

• Starting at $19.99/mo (32 players)
• Ryzen 9 CPUs
• NVMe SSD storage
• Instant setup
• One-click mod installation
• 24/7 Discord support
• Get Started →

GTXGaming

• From $18/mo (24 players)
• Good control panel
• Decent support
• Multiple locations

Nitrado

• From $13/mo (10 players)
• Popular provider
• Mobile app
• Higher per-slot cost

LOW.MS

• From $25/mo (32 players)
• Premium hardware
• Good performance
• Professional support

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Option 2: VPS Hosting (More Control)

Recommended VPS Providers:

Hetzner - Best Value

• From €9.90/mo (~$11)
• Excellent hardware
• Germany/Finland locations
• Popular with EU servers

OVH

• From $20/mo
• DDoS protection included
• Multiple locations
• Game-optimized servers

DigitalOcean

• From $48/mo (8GB)
• Easy to use
• Good documentation
• US locations

Vultr

• From $24/mo (8GB)
• Many locations
• Hourly billing
• Good performance

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Option 3: Dedicated Server (Maximum Performance)

When to Use:

• 64-player servers
• Multiple Arma servers
• Guaranteed resources
• Long-term hosting

Cost: $80-200/mo

Providers:

• OVH Kimsufi/SoYouStart
• Hetzner Dedicated
• Online.net

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Cost Comparison

Option	32-Player Cost	Pros	Cons
Managed	$18-30/mo	Easiest, supported	Less control
VPS	$20-50/mo	More control	Requires setup
Dedicated	$80-150/mo	Best performance	Expensive
Self-Host	$0 (electricity)	Full control	PC always on

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Installing on Windows

Prerequisites

Before You Begin:

• Windows 10/11 or Windows Server 2019+
• Administrator privileges
• Steam account
• At least 30GB free space

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Step 1: Install SteamCMD

Download SteamCMD:

1. Create folder: C:\ArmaReforger
2. Create subfolder: C:\ArmaReforger\steamcmd
3. Download: steamcdn-a.akamaihd.net/client/installer/steamcmd.zip
4. Extract to C:\ArmaReforger\steamcmd

Test SteamCMD:

cd C:\ArmaReforger\steamcmd
steamcmd.exe

Should open SteamCMD console:

Steam>

Type quit to exit for now.

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Step 2: Download Arma Reforger Server

Create download script:

Create download_server.bat in C:\ArmaReforger\steamcmd:

@echo off
steamcmd.exe +force_install_dir "C:\ArmaReforger\Server" +login anonymous +app_update 1874900 validate +quit

Run the script: Double-click download_server.bat

Download Progress:

• App ID 1874900 = Arma Reforger Server
• ~8-10GB download
• Takes 10-20 minutes

Completion Message:

Success! App '1874900' fully installed.

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Step 3: Create Configuration File

Navigate to server folder:

C:\ArmaReforger\Server

Create server.json in the root:

{
    "dedicatedServerId": "",
    "region": "US",
    "gameHostBindAddress": "",
    "gameHostBindPort": 2001,
    "gameHostRegisterBindAddress": "",
    "gameHostRegisterPort": 2001,
    "adminPassword": "YourSecureAdminPassword123",
    "game": {
        "name": "My Arma Reforger Server",
        "password": "",
        "passwordAdmin": "",
        "scenarioId": "{ECC61978EDCC2B5A}Missions/23_Campaign.conf",
        "maxPlayers": 32,
        "visible": true,
        "gameProperties": {
            "serverMaxViewDistance": 2500,
            "serverMinGrassDistance": 50,
            "networkViewDistance": 1000,
            "disableThirdPerson": false,
            "fastValidation": true,
            "battlEye": true,
            "VONDisableUI": false,
            "VONDisableDirectSpeechUI": false
        },
        "mods": []
    },
    "operating": {
        "lobbyPlayerSynchronise": true
    }
}

⚠️ IMPORTANT: Replace YourSecureAdminPassword123 with a strong password!

---

Step 4: Configure Firewall

Windows Firewall Rules:

Open PowerShell as Administrator:

# Allow Arma Reforger Server
New-NetFirewallRule -DisplayName "Arma Reforger Server UDP" -Direction Inbound -Protocol UDP -LocalPort 2001 -Action Allow

New-NetFirewallRule -DisplayName "Arma Reforger Server TCP" -Direction Inbound -Protocol TCP -LocalPort 2001 -Action Allow

Port Forwarding (Router):

• Port: 2001 UDP (primary game port)
• Port: 2001 TCP (optional, for some features)
• Forward to your server’s local IP

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Step 5: Create Start Script

Create start_server.bat:

@echo off
title Arma Reforger Server

cd /d "C:\ArmaReforger\Server"

:start
ArmaReforgerServer.exe -config server.json -profile Server -nothrow

echo.
echo Server stopped or crashed. Restarting in 10 seconds...
echo Press Ctrl+C to cancel restart.
timeout /t 10

goto start

This script:

• Starts the server
• Auto-restarts if it crashes
• Shows server in console window

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Step 6: Start Your Server

Run start_server.bat

Console Output:

21:45:33.123 INFO: GameMode                   | Server started
21:45:33.456 INFO: Network                    | Binding to 0.0.0.0:2001
21:45:34.789 INFO: GameHost                   | Server registered successfully
21:45:35.012 INFO: GameMode                   | Scenario loaded: Conflict

Server is now running! ✅

---

Step 7: Connect to Your Server

In Arma Reforger:

1. Main Menu → Multiplayer
2. Server Browser
3. Search for your server name
4. Click “Join”

Or Direct Connect:

1. Click “Direct Connect”
2. Enter IP: YOUR_PUBLIC_IP:2001
3. Click “Connect”

---

Installing on Linux

Recommended: Ubuntu 22.04 LTS

Step 1: Update System

sudo apt update && sudo apt upgrade -y
sudo apt install software-properties-common -y

---

Step 2: Create User

Don’t run server as root:

sudo adduser reforger
sudo usermod -aG sudo reforger
su - reforger

---

Step 3: Install Dependencies

# 32-bit libraries (required)
sudo dpkg --add-architecture i386
sudo apt update
sudo apt install lib32gcc-s1 lib32stdc++6 steamcmd -y

---

Step 4: Install SteamCMD

Using package manager:

sudo add-apt-repository multiverse
sudo apt update
sudo apt install steamcmd -y

Create symlink:

ln -s /usr/games/steamcmd ~/steamcmd

---

Step 5: Download Server Files

cd ~
mkdir arma-reforger-server
cd arma-reforger-server

# Download server
steamcmd +force_install_dir ~/arma-reforger-server +login anonymous +app_update 1874900 validate +quit

Wait for download (~10GB, 10-20 minutes)

---

Step 6: Create Configuration

nano server.json

Paste configuration:

{
    "dedicatedServerId": "",
    "region": "EU",
    "gameHostBindAddress": "",
    "gameHostBindPort": 2001,
    "gameHostRegisterBindAddress": "",
    "gameHostRegisterPort": 2001,
    "adminPassword": "YourSecurePassword123",
    "game": {
        "name": "[EU] My Arma Reforger Server | Conflict",
        "password": "",
        "scenarioId": "{ECC61978EDCC2B5A}Missions/23_Campaign.conf",
        "maxPlayers": 32,
        "visible": true,
        "gameProperties": {
            "serverMaxViewDistance": 2500,
            "serverMinGrassDistance": 50,
            "networkViewDistance": 1000,
            "disableThirdPerson": false,
            "fastValidation": true,
            "battlEye": true
        },
        "mods": []
    }
}

Save: Ctrl+X, Y, Enter

---

Step 7: Create Start Script

nano start.sh

Script content:

#!/bin/bash

cd ~/arma-reforger-server

./ArmaReforgerServer -config server.json -profile Server -nothrow

Make executable:

chmod +x start.sh

---

Step 8: Configure Firewall

# Allow port 2001
sudo ufw allow 2001/udp
sudo ufw allow 2001/tcp
sudo ufw enable

---

Step 9: Create Systemd Service

Create service file:

sudo nano /etc/systemd/system/arma-reforger.service

Service configuration:

[Unit]
Description=Arma Reforger Dedicated Server
After=network.target

[Service]
Type=simple
User=reforger
WorkingDirectory=/home/reforger/arma-reforger-server
ExecStart=/home/reforger/arma-reforger-server/start.sh
Restart=on-failure
RestartSec=10

[Install]
WantedBy=multi-user.target

Enable and start:

sudo systemctl daemon-reload
sudo systemctl enable arma-reforger
sudo systemctl start arma-reforger

Check status:

sudo systemctl status arma-reforger

---

Server Configuration

Understanding server.json

Complete Configuration Breakdown:

{
    "dedicatedServerId": "",
    // Optional: Unique ID for your server
    // Leave empty for auto-generation
    
    "region": "US",
    // Options: US, EU, ASIA, OCEANIA
    // Affects server browser region filter
    
    "gameHostBindAddress": "",
    // Leave empty to bind to all IPs
    // Or specify: "192.168.1.100"
    
    "gameHostBindPort": 2001,
    // Default port: 2001
    // Change if running multiple servers
    
    "gameHostRegisterBindAddress": "",
    // Leave empty in most cases
    
    "gameHostRegisterPort": 2001,
    // Usually same as gameHostBindPort
    
    "adminPassword": "YourPassword123",
    // RCON/admin password
    // ⚠️ MUST be secure!
    
    "game": {
        "name": "My Server Name",
        // Shows in server browser
        // Max 100 characters
        
        "password": "",
        // Server password (empty = public)
        // Set for private server
        
        "passwordAdmin": "",
        // Optional admin password
        // Different from adminPassword
        
        "scenarioId": "{ECC61978EDCC2B5A}Missions/23_Campaign.conf",
        // Which scenario to run
        // See scenarios section
        
        "maxPlayers": 32,
        // 1-64 players
        // Consider your hardware
        
        "visible": true,
        // Show in server browser
        // false = hidden (direct connect only)
        
        "gameProperties": {
            "serverMaxViewDistance": 2500,
            // Max view distance in meters
            // Higher = more CPU usage
            
            "serverMinGrassDistance": 50,
            // Grass rendering distance
            // 0-200 meters
            
            "networkViewDistance": 1000,
            // Network culling distance
            // Lower = better performance
            
            "disableThirdPerson": false,
            // true = first-person only
            // false = allow third-person
            
            "fastValidation": true,
            // Faster player validation
            // Recommended: true
            
            "battlEye": true,
            // Enable BattlEye anti-cheat
            // ⚠️ Recommended for public
            
            "VONDisableUI": false,
            // Hide voice chat UI
            
            "VONDisableDirectSpeechUI": false
            // Hide direct speech UI
        },
        
        "mods": []
        // Mod Workshop IDs
        // Example: ["5EB63A4C6F8F7EC1", "AABBCCDD11223344"]
    },
    
    "operating": {
        "lobbyPlayerSynchronise": true
        // Sync player data in lobby
    }
}

---

Common Configuration Scenarios

1. Public Conflict Server:

{
    "game": {
        "name": "[US] Conflict 24/7 | New Player Friendly",
        "password": "",
        "scenarioId": "{ECC61978EDCC2B5A}Missions/23_Campaign.conf",
        "maxPlayers": 64,
        "visible": true,
        "gameProperties": {
            "disableThirdPerson": false,
            "battlEye": true
        }
    }
}

---

2. Private Clan Server:

{
    "game": {
        "name": "[EU] Clan Training Server - Password Protected",
        "password": "clanpassword123",
        "scenarioId": "{ECC61978EDCC2B5A}Missions/23_Campaign.conf",
        "maxPlayers": 32,
        "visible": true,
        "gameProperties": {
            "disableThirdPerson": true,
            "battlEye": false
        }
    }
}

---

3. Milsim Realism Server:

{
    "game": {
        "name": "[EU] Milsim Realism | First Person Only",
        "password": "",
        "scenarioId": "{ECC61978EDCC2B5A}Missions/23_Campaign.conf",
        "maxPlayers": 48,
        "gameProperties": {
            "disableThirdPerson": true,
            "serverMaxViewDistance": 3000,
            "networkViewDistance": 1500,
            "battlEye": true
        }
    }
}

---

4. PvE Combat Ops Server:

{
    "game": {
        "name": "[US] PvE Combat Operations | Co-op",
        "password": "",
        "scenarioId": "{9230D4EF9A0C93FA}Missions/21_CombatOps.conf",
        "maxPlayers": 32,
        "gameProperties": {
            "disableThirdPerson": false,
            "battlEye": true
        }
    }
}

---

Scenarios and Game Modes

Available Scenarios

Conflict (Most Popular):

"scenarioId": "{ECC61978EDCC2B5A}Missions/23_Campaign.conf"

• Persistent territory control
• Capture and hold bases
• Resource gathering
• Respawn system
• 64 players
• Can last hours/days

---

Combat Ops (PvE):

"scenarioId": "{9230D4EF9A0C93FA}Missions/21_CombatOps.conf"

• Generated PvE missions
• Co-op gameplay
• Objective-based
• AI enemies
• 16-32 players
• Mission-based progression

---

Capture and Hold:

"scenarioId": "{60D9B60E36F0E57F}Missions/20_CaptureAndHold.conf"

• King of the hill style
• Fast-paced PvP
• Multiple objectives
• Quick respawns
• 32-64 players
• Round-based

---

Game Master:

"scenarioId": "{7AF9FC8D18EC2D43}Missions/22_GameMaster.conf"

• Live mission editing
• Dynamic scenarios
• Zeus-like control
• Custom missions
• Variable player count
• Requires GM password

---

Custom Scenarios

Community scenarios via Workshop:

1. Subscribe to scenario on Steam Workshop
2. Get Workshop ID (from URL)
3. Add to mods array in server.json
4. Use scenario’s specific ID

Example:

{
    "game": {
        "scenarioId": "{CUSTOM_SCENARIO_ID}",
        "mods": ["WORKSHOP_MOD_ID_HERE"]
    }
}

---

Admin Tools and Commands

In-Game Admin Menu

Access Admin Menu:

1. Press Escape
2. Click “Admin”
3. Enter admin password (from server.json)

Admin Menu Options:

• Kick players
• Ban players
• Change time/weather
• Teleport players
• Spawn vehicles
• End scenario
• View player list

---

RCON Commands

Connect via RCON:

• Use BattleMetrics RCON
• Or dedicated RCON client
• Port: 2001 (same as game port)
• Password: From server.json adminPassword

Common RCON Commands:

#login PASSWORD                 # Authenticate
#shutdown                        # Stop server gracefully
#restart                         # Restart server
#mission                         # Get current mission
#players                         # List players
#kick PLAYER_ID                  # Kick player by ID
#ban PLAYER_ID DURATION          # Ban player

---

Server Console Commands

Windows (in server console window):

#shutdown                        # Stop server
#restart                         # Restart
#mission                         # Current scenario
#exec COMMAND                    # Execute command

---

Managing Players

Kick Player:

1. Admin Menu → Players
2. Select player
3. Click “Kick”
4. Enter reason
5. Confirm

Ban Player:

1. Admin Menu → Players
2. Select player
3. Click “Ban”
4. Select duration:
   • 1 hour
   • 1 day
   • 1 week
   • Permanent
5. Enter reason
6. Confirm

View Bans:

1. Admin Menu → Bans
2. View banned players
3. Can unban if needed

---

Installing Mods

Workshop Integration

Arma Reforger has built-in Steam Workshop support.

Step 1: Find Mod on Workshop

1. Open Steam
2. Community → Workshop
3. Search “Arma Reforger”
4. Find desired mod
5. Note the Workshop ID from URL

Example URL:

https://steamcommunity.com/sharedfiles/filedetails/?id=1234567890
Workshop ID: 1234567890

---

Step 2: Add to Server Config

Edit server.json:

{
    "game": {
        "mods": [
            {
                "modId": "5EB63A4C6F8F7EC1",
                "name": "Example Mod"
            },
            {
                "modId": "AABBCCDD11223344",
                "name": "Another Mod"
            }
        ]
    }
}

Note: ModId format may vary. Check mod documentation.

---

Step 3: Download Mods

Server automatically downloads mods on start.

Manual download (if needed):

Windows:

cd C:\ArmaReforger\steamcmd
steamcmd.exe +login anonymous +workshop_download_item 1874880 WORKSHOP_ID +quit

Linux:

steamcmd +login anonymous +workshop_download_item 1874880 WORKSHOP_ID +quit

---

Popular Mods

1. Enhanced Movement

• Adds prone, vaulting improvements
• Quality of life features

2. ACE-like Medical System

• Advanced medical simulation
• More realistic healing

3. Custom Factions

• Additional military factions
• New uniforms and weapons

4. Improved Vehicle Physics

• Better handling
• More realistic damage

5. Radio Systems

• ACRE/TFAR style radios
• Better communication

---

Mod Load Order

Important: Some mods depend on others.

Dependency Order:

{
    "mods": [
        "BASE_MOD_ID",          // Load first
        "DEPENDENT_MOD_ID"      // Load second
    ]
}

Check each mod’s documentation for dependencies.

---

Performance Optimization

Server Configuration Tweaks

Lower View Distance:

{
    "gameProperties": {
        "serverMaxViewDistance": 2000,    // Instead of 2500
        "networkViewDistance": 800        // Instead of 1000
    }
}

Benefits:

• Lower CPU usage
• Better performance
• Supports more players
• Slight visual quality reduction

---

Reduce Grass Distance:

{
    "serverMinGrassDistance": 25    // Instead of 50
}

Benefits:

• Less rendering load
• Better FPS for clients
• Minor visibility difference

---

System-Level Optimization

Windows:

Set Process Priority:

1. Task Manager
2. Details tab
3. Right-click ArmaReforgerServer.exe
4. Set Priority → High

Disable Windows Features:

• Windows Search
• Superfetch
• Windows Update (schedule for off-hours)

---

Linux:

Set CPU Affinity:

taskset -c 0-7 ./ArmaReforgerServer -config server.json -profile Server

Nice Value:

nice -n -10 ./ArmaReforgerServer -config server.json -profile Server

Disable Unnecessary Services:

sudo systemctl disable snapd bluetooth cups

---

Network Optimization

Quality of Service (QoS):

1. Router QoS settings
2. Prioritize port 2001 UDP
3. Ensure no bandwidth throttling

Check Network Performance:

# Linux
iftop -i eth0

# Monitor bandwidth usage
# Should be steady during gameplay

---

Monitoring Performance

Check CPU/RAM Usage:

Windows:

• Task Manager → Performance
• Monitor while server running

Linux:

htop
# or
top

Ideal Metrics:

• CPU: <70% average
• RAM: <80% usage
• Network: Steady, no packet loss

---

Troubleshooting

Server Won’t Start

Check Console Errors:

Windows: Run server without auto-restart:

cd C:\ArmaReforger\Server
ArmaReforgerServer.exe -config server.json -profile Server

Linux:

./ArmaReforgerServer -config server.json -profile Server

Look for error messages.

---

Common Errors:

1. “Failed to bind to port 2001”

Cause: Port already in use

Solution:

# Windows
netstat -ano | findstr :2001
taskkill /PID [PID] /F

# Linux
sudo lsof -i :2001
kill [PID]

---

2. “Invalid configuration file”

Cause: JSON syntax error

Solution:

• Validate JSON at jsonlint.com
• Check for missing commas
• Check quotation marks
• Ensure proper brackets

---

3. “Failed to load scenario”

Cause: Invalid scenarioId

Solution:

• Check scenarioId spelling
• Ensure brackets {} correct
• Use valid scenario from list

---

Not Showing in Server Browser

Checklist:

1. Server is running

   • Check console for “Server started”

2. Visible = true

   "visible": true

3. Port forwarded correctly

   • 2001 UDP through router
   • To correct internal IP

4. Firewall allows traffic

   • Windows Firewall rule exists
   • Linux UFW allows port

5. BattlEye enabled

   "battlEye": true

6. Wait 5-10 minutes

   • Server list updates slowly
   • Check direct connect with IP

---

Players Can’t Connect

Error: “Connection Failed”

Possible Causes:

1. Server Full

• Check current player count
• Increase maxPlayers if needed

2. Wrong Password

• If server has password
• Player needs correct password

3. Mod Mismatch

• Player must have same mods
• Same mod versions
• Check mod list

4. Version Mismatch

• Update server
• Player updates game

5. Banned

• Check ban list
• Unban if appropriate

---

High Ping / Lag

Server-Side Issues:

1. CPU Overload

Task Manager/htop shows >90% CPU

Solutions:

• Reduce player count
• Lower view distances
• Disable demanding mods
• Upgrade CPU

---

2. RAM Exhaustion

RAM usage at 90%+

Solutions:

• Add more RAM
• Reduce player count
• Clear logs regularly
• Restart server daily

---

3. Network Saturation

Upload bandwidth maxed out

Solutions:

• Upgrade internet
• Reduce player count
• Lower network view distance
• Check for DDoS attack

---

Server Crashes

Collect Crash Logs:

Windows:

C:\ArmaReforger\Server\profile\Server\*.log

Linux:

~/arma-reforger-server/profile/Server/*.log

Common Crash Causes:

1. Mod Conflicts

• Remove mods one by one
• Test stability
• Check mod compatibility

2. Memory Leaks

• Restart server daily
• Update to latest version
• Report to developers

3. Corrupted Files

# Verify files
steamcmd +login anonymous +force_install_dir ~/arma-reforger-server +app_update 1874900 validate +quit

4. Scenario Issues

• Try different scenario
• Update scenario mod
• Report to scenario author

---

Maintenance and Updates

Updating Your Server

Check for Updates: Arma Reforger updates regularly (weekly/biweekly).

Update Process:

Windows:

cd C:\ArmaReforger\steamcmd
steamcmd.exe +force_install_dir "C:\ArmaReforger\Server" +login anonymous +app_update 1874900 validate +quit

Linux:

steamcmd +force_install_dir ~/arma-reforger-server +login anonymous +app_update 1874900 validate +quit

After Update:

1. Stop server
2. Run update command
3. Start server
4. Test functionality
5. Notify players of any changes

---

Automated Updates

Linux Cron Job:

crontab -e

Add line:

0 4 * * * cd ~/arma-reforger-server && steamcmd +force_install_dir ~/arma-reforger-server +login anonymous +app_update 1874900 +quit && systemctl restart arma-reforger

Updates daily at 4 AM and restarts server.

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Backup Configuration

What to Backup:

• server.json - Main config
• Profile folder - Player data, logs
• Mods configuration
• Ban lists

Backup Script (Linux):

#!/bin/bash
DATE=$(date +%Y%m%d)
tar -czf ~/backups/reforger_$DATE.tar.gz ~/arma-reforger-server/server.json ~/arma-reforger-server/profile
find ~/backups/ -name "reforger_*.tar.gz" -mtime +7 -delete

Run weekly via cron.

---

Best Practices

Server Management Tips

1. Active Administration

• Be present during peak hours
• Respond to player reports
• Enforce rules consistently
• Build community trust

2. Clear Rules

• No teamkilling
• Follow commander orders
• No griefing
• Respect all players
• Language requirements (if any)

3. Regular Maintenance

• Restart daily (clears memory leaks)
• Update weekly
• Clear old logs monthly
• Test mods before deploying

4. Performance Monitoring

• Check CPU/RAM daily
• Monitor player counts
• Track crash frequency
• Optimize as needed

5. Community Building

• Create Discord server
• Announce downtimes
• Gather feedback
• Host events

---

Recommended Server Settings

For New Player-Friendly Server:

{
    "game": {
        "name": "[Region] New Player Friendly | Discord.gg/YourLink",
        "maxPlayers": 48,
        "gameProperties": {
            "disableThirdPerson": false,
            "battlEye": true,
            "serverMaxViewDistance": 2500
        }
    }
}

---

For Milsim/Realism Server:

{
    "game": {
        "name": "[Region] Milsim Realism | First Person",
        "maxPlayers": 40,
        "gameProperties": {
            "disableThirdPerson": true,
            "battlEye": true,
            "serverMaxViewDistance": 3000
        }
    }
}

---

For Casual/Arcade Server:

{
    "game": {
        "name": "[Region] Casual Fun | Fast Respawns",
        "maxPlayers": 64,
        "gameProperties": {
            "disableThirdPerson": false,
            "battlEye": true,
            "serverMaxViewDistance": 2000
        }
    }
}

---

Hosting Recommendations

By Budget

Budget: $15-25/mo

• Managed hosting (16-32 players)
• Good for starting out
• Limited customization

Recommended: Mamba Host 32-player plan

---

Mid-Range: $25-40/mo

• Managed hosting (32-48 players)
• Better hardware
• More features

Recommended: Mamba Host 48-player plan

---

Premium: $40-60/mo

• Managed hosting (48-64 players)
• Best hardware
• Full features

Recommended: Mamba Host 64-player plan or VPS

---

Enterprise: $60+/mo

• VPS or Dedicated
• Multiple servers
• Full control

Recommended: Hetzner dedicated or OVH

---

Conclusion

Hosting an Arma Reforger server gives you complete control over your military simulation experience. You’ve learned:

✅ Hardware requirements (8-16GB RAM) ✅ Installation (Windows & Linux) ✅ Server configuration (server.json) ✅ Admin tools and commands ✅ Mod installation via Workshop ✅ Performance optimization ✅ Troubleshooting solutions

Key Takeaways:

1. Start with managed hosting if you’re new
2. 8GB RAM minimum for 32 players
3. BattlEye recommended for public servers
4. Regular updates essential for stability
5. Active administration builds community

---

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• ✅ Starting at $19.99/mo (32 players)
• ✅ Instant Setup - Server ready in 5 minutes
• ✅ Ryzen 9 CPUs - Best single-core performance
• ✅ NVMe Storage - Fast load times
• ✅ DDoS Protection - Stay online
• ✅ One-Click Mods - Easy Workshop integration
• ✅ 24/7 Support - Discord & ticket support
• ✅ Auto-Updates - Always latest version
• ✅ Control Panel - Web-based management

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• New server owners
• Clans and communities
• Milsim groups
• Content creators

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---

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: How much does Arma Reforger server hosting cost?

A: Ranges from $15-60/mo depending on:

• Player count (16-64)
• Managed vs VPS
• Hardware quality
• Support level

Budget: $15-25/mo (16-32 players) Mid-range: $25-40/mo (32-48 players) Premium: $40-60/mo (48-64 players)

---

Q: Can I host on my PC?

A: Yes, but not recommended for public servers:

• PC must run 24/7
• Electricity costs (~$10-20/mo)
• Uses 8-16GB RAM
• Requires good upload speed
• Not reliable long-term

Better for testing only.

---

Q: How many players can my server handle?

A: Depends on hardware:

• 8GB RAM, 4 cores: 16-32 players
• 16GB RAM, 6-8 cores: 32-48 players
• 24GB+ RAM, 8+ cores: 48-64 players

Most servers run 32-48 players as sweet spot.

---

Q: Is Arma Reforger cross-platform?

A: PC and Xbox versions exist but:

• Separate server browsers
• No crossplay between PC/Xbox
• PC servers for PC only
• Xbox servers for Xbox only

This guide covers PC servers only.

---

Q: How long does setup take?

A: Timeline:

• Managed hosting: 5-15 minutes
• VPS/DIY: 1-2 hours first time
• With mods: Add 30-60 minutes

Experienced: 30 minutes First time: 1-2 hours

---

Q: Do I need BattlEye enabled?

A: Recommended for public servers:

• ✅ Prevents cheating
• ✅ Protects server integrity
• ✅ Required by most communities
• ❌ Can cause compatibility issues with some mods

Disable only for:

• Private clan servers
• Testing/development
• Mod compatibility issues

---

Q: Can I monetize my server?

A: Check Bohemia Interactive’s terms, but generally:

• ✅ Donations accepted
• ✅ Reserved slots for supporters
• ✅ Cosmetic perks
• ❌ Pay-to-win features
• ❌ Selling admin access
• ❌ Paid advantages

Always check current TOS.

---

Q: How do I get players on my server?

A: Seeding strategies:

1. Play during peak hours (7-10 PM)
2. Clear server name with description
3. Join communities and promote
4. Discord server for communication
5. Regular events and missions
6. Active administration
7. Unique features (mods, playstyle)

Takes 2-6 weeks to build playerbase.

---

Q: Can I switch scenarios without restart?

A: No, scenario change requires:

1. Stop server
2. Edit server.json
3. Change scenarioId
4. Start server

Future updates may add in-game scenario voting.

---

Q: What’s the difference between Conflict and Combat Ops?

A: Conflict:

• Persistent territory control
• PvP focused
• Large-scale battles
• Resource management
• 64 players
• Can last days

Combat Ops:

• Generated PvE missions
• Co-op gameplay
• Objective-based
• Against AI
• 16-32 players
• Mission-based (30-90 min)

---

Additional Resources

Official:

• Arma Reforger Website
• Bohemia Interactive Forums
• Arma Reforger Wiki

Server Administration:

• Dedicated Server Guide
• BattleMetrics - Server monitoring

Community:

• r/armaReforger (Reddit)
• Arma Platform Discord
• Bohemia Interactive Discord

---

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---

Last updated: October 27, 2025 Compatible with Arma Reforger 1.2+ Estimated reading time: 20 minutes