FiveM Server Hosting: Complete Setup Guide (2025)

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Table of Contents

1. What is FiveM?
2. Server Requirements
3. Method 1: Self-Hosting
4. Method 2: Managed Hosting
5. txAdmin Setup
6. ESX vs QBCore Framework
7. Resource Installation
8. MySQL Database Setup
9. Performance Optimization
10. Troubleshooting
11. FAQs

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What is FiveM?

FiveM is a modification framework for Grand Theft Auto V that allows you to create custom multiplayer servers with modified gameplay, custom scripts, and roleplay experiences.

Key Features:

• Custom Servers — Create unique roleplay communities
• Mods & Scripts — Lua/JavaScript/C# scripting support
• Frameworks — ESX, QBCore, vRP for roleplay servers
• Active Community — 100,000+ players daily
• Free to Use — No license fees (GTA V required for players)

Server Types:

Type	Description	Typical Resources
Roleplay (RP)	Realistic life simulation	50-200+ resources
Racing	Custom tracks and vehicles	20-50 resources
Freeroam	Sandbox gameplay	10-30 resources
Drift/Stunt	Vehicle-focused gameplay	15-40 resources

💡 Note: This guide focuses on roleplay servers, which are the most popular and resource-intensive.

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Server Requirements

For Self-Hosting (Home/VPS)

Component	Minimum	Recommended	Heavy RP (64+ players)
RAM	4GB	6-8GB	12GB+
CPU	2 cores 2.5GHz	4 cores 3.0GHz+	6+ cores 3.5GHz+
Storage	30GB SSD	50GB NVMe	100GB+ NVMe
Upload Speed	10 Mbps	50 Mbps	100+ Mbps
OS	Windows Server 2019+ or Linux	Ubuntu 20.04+	Ubuntu 22.04

For Managed Hosting

Most FiveM hosts offer tiered plans:

• Starter: $10-15/mo (16-32 players, 4GB RAM)
• Pro: $20-30/mo (32-48 players, 6-8GB RAM)
• Premium: $40-60/mo (48-64 players, 12GB+ RAM)
• Enterprise: $80+/mo (64-128 players, dedicated resources)

⚠️ Critical: FiveM is extremely CPU-intensive. Single-core performance matters more than core count.

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Method 1: Self-Hosting (DIY)

Self-hosting gives you full control but requires technical knowledge and 24/7 uptime.

Step 1: Install Prerequisites

Windows:

1. Visual C++ Redistributables (Required)

   • Download: VC++ 2019 x64
   • Run installer

2. DirectX (Recommended)

   • Download: DirectX End-User Runtime

Linux (Ubuntu):

# Update system
sudo apt update && sudo apt upgrade -y

# Install required packages
sudo apt install git wget curl screen -y

# Install xz-utils for artifact extraction
sudo apt install xz-utils -y

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Step 2: Download FiveM Artifacts

FiveM server files are called “artifacts” and are updated frequently.

Windows:

1. Create folder: C:\FXServer
2. Download latest artifact from FiveM Artifacts
3. Extract to C:\FXServer\server

Linux:

# Create server directory
mkdir -p ~/FXServer/server
cd ~/FXServer/server

# Download latest Linux artifact
wget https://runtime.fivem.net/artifacts/fivem/build_proot_linux/master/$(curl -s https://runtime.fivem.net/artifacts/fivem/build_proot_linux/master/ | grep -oP 'href="\K[0-9]+-[a-z0-9]+(?=/fx.tar.xz)' | tail -1)/fx.tar.xz

# Extract
tar xf fx.tar.xz
rm fx.tar.xz

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Step 3: Install txAdmin (Recommended)

txAdmin is the official FiveM server management panel. It’s the easiest way to set up and manage your server.

Windows:

cd C:\FXServer\server
FXServer.exe +set citizen_dir citizen +set sv_licenseKey YOUR_LICENSE_KEY +set txAdminPort 40120

Linux:

cd ~/FXServer/server
./run.sh +set citizen_dir citizen +set sv_licenseKey YOUR_LICENSE_KEY +set txAdminPort 40120

Get License Key:

1. Go to Cfx.re Keymaster
2. Login with your account
3. Create a new server license key
4. Replace YOUR_LICENSE_KEY with your key

First Run:

• Open browser: http://YOUR_SERVER_IP:40120
• Follow setup wizard
• Create admin account
• Choose recipe (ESX or QBCore)

💡 Pro Tip: txAdmin simplifies 90% of server management. Use it unless you have a specific reason not to.

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Step 4: Configure Server Settings

Edit server.cfg in your server directory:

# Server Information
sv_hostname "^1My FiveM Server^7 | Roleplay | Jobs | Custom Cars"
sv_projectName "My FiveM RP Server"
sv_projectDesc "A FiveM Roleplay Server"

# Server Settings
sv_maxclients 32
sv_endpointprivacy true
set sv_enforceGameBuild 2802

# Steam Web API Key (Optional but recommended)
set steam_webApiKey "YOUR_STEAM_API_KEY"

# OneSync (Required for 32+ players)
set onesync on

# License Key
sv_licenseKey "YOUR_LICENSE_KEY_HERE"

# Database Connection (MySQL)
set mysql_connection_string "mysql://root:password@localhost/fivem?charset=utf8mb4"

# Resources
ensure mapmanager
ensure chat
ensure spawnmanager
ensure sessionmanager
ensure basic-gamemode
ensure hardcap
ensure rconlog

# Load your framework (ESX or QBCore)
ensure es_extended
# OR
# ensure qb-core

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Step 5: Port Forwarding (Self-Hosting Only)

Open these ports on your router:

• 30120 (TCP & UDP) — Game server
• 40120 (TCP) — txAdmin panel

Steps:

1. Access router settings (usually 192.168.1.1 or 192.168.0.1)
2. Find “Port Forwarding” section
3. Forward ports to your server’s local IP
4. Save and reboot router

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Method 2: Managed Hosting

Managed hosting handles infrastructure, allowing you to focus on building your server.

Why Choose Managed Hosting?

✅ Pros:

• No hardware maintenance
• 24/7 uptime guarantee
• DDoS protection included
• Automatic updates
• Expert support
• Instant setup (2-5 minutes)
• No port forwarding hassle

❌ Cons:

• Monthly cost ($10-60/mo)
• Less control than VPS
• May have resource limits

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Top FiveM Hosting Providers

Provider	Starting Price	RAM	Support	Best For
Mamba Host	$14.99/mo	4GB	24/7 Discord	Performance & Value
Zap Hosting	$10.00/mo	3GB	Tickets	Budget
Iceline Hosting	$15.00/mo	4GB	24/7 Tickets	Reliability
GTX Gaming	$18.00/mo	4GB	Live Chat	Features

💡 Recommendation: Mamba Host offers NVMe storage and Discord support, critical for FiveM performance.

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Mamba Host FiveM Setup (2 Minutes)

1. Choose Plan — Mamba Host FiveM Plans
2. Select Configuration:
   • RAM: 4GB minimum (6-8GB for 32+ players)
   • Location: Closest to your player base
3. Complete Order — Server provisions in <2 minutes
4. Access txAdmin — Login details sent via email
5. Choose Recipe — ESX Legacy or QBCore
6. Done! — Server ready to customize

Included:

• txAdmin pre-installed
• MySQL database configured
• DDoS protection
• Daily automatic backups
• 24/7 Discord support
• NVMe storage (5-10x faster)

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txAdmin Setup & Configuration

txAdmin is the official FiveM server management tool. It provides a web interface for server control, resource management, and player administration.

Initial Setup Wizard

Step 1: Create Admin Account

• Username: Your admin username
• Password: Strong password
• PIN: 4-6 digit PIN for quick access

Step 2: Choose Deployment Type

Popular Recipes:

• ESX Legacy — Most popular RP framework
• QBCore — Modern, actively developed RP framework
• Vanilla — Clean FiveM with no framework
• Custom — Import from existing server

Step 3: Server Configuration

• Server Name
• Max Players (32 recommended for starters)
• OneSync (Enable for 32+ players)
• License Key

Step 4: Resource Installation

txAdmin will automatically:

• Download framework files
• Install default resources
• Configure database
• Set up server.cfg

⏱️ Setup Time: 5-10 minutes depending on recipe size

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txAdmin Features

Server Control:

• ✅ Start, stop, restart server
• ✅ View real-time console
• ✅ Monitor player count and performance
• ✅ Resource management

Player Management:

• ✅ Kick/ban players
• ✅ View player IDs and identifiers
• ✅ Whitelist management
• ✅ Admin permissions

Advanced Features:

• ✅ Scheduled restarts
• ✅ Performance monitoring
• ✅ Log viewer
• ✅ Backup system

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ESX vs QBCore Framework

Both are roleplay frameworks with jobs, inventory, economy, and more. Choose based on your needs.

ESX Legacy

Overview: Established framework with huge resource ecosystem.

Pros:

• ✅ Massive Resource Library — 1,000+ free scripts on GitHub
• ✅ Beginner-Friendly — Extensive documentation
• ✅ Stable — Mature, well-tested codebase
• ✅ Community — Large support community

Cons:

• ❌ Older Codebase — Some legacy code patterns
• ❌ Performance — Can be heavy with many resources
• ❌ Updates — Slower development cycle

Best For: Beginners, servers wanting maximum resource compatibility

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QBCore

Overview: Modern framework built from scratch with performance in mind.

Pros:

• ✅ Modern Code — Clean, optimized Lua
• ✅ Performance — Better optimization than ESX
• ✅ Active Development — Frequent updates
• ✅ Built-in Features — More features out-of-box

Cons:

• ❌ Smaller Ecosystem — Fewer free resources than ESX
• ❌ Steeper Learning Curve — More complex structure
• ❌ Breaking Changes — Updates can break compatibility

Best For: Experienced developers, performance-focused servers

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Feature Comparison

Feature	ESX Legacy	QBCore
Free Resources	1,000+	300+
Performance	Good	Excellent
Learning Curve	Easy	Moderate
Documentation	Extensive	Good
Jobs	20+ default	15+ default
Inventory	Basic	Advanced
Phone System	Add-on	Built-in
Housing	Add-on	Built-in

Our Recommendation:

• New to FiveM? → ESX Legacy
• Want best performance? → QBCore
• Want most resources? → ESX Legacy
• Want modern code? → QBCore

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Resource Installation

Resources are scripts/mods that add features to your server.

Types of Resources

1. Framework Scripts — Core functionality (jobs, inventory)
2. Standalone — Work with any framework
3. Maps/MLOs — Custom buildings and interiors
4. Vehicles — Custom car packs
5. Clothing — Custom outfits and accessories

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Where to Find Resources

Free:

• GitHub — Free ESX/QBCore scripts
• FiveM Forums — Community releases
• FiveM Store — Some free resources

Paid:

• Tebex Stores — Premium scripts ($5-100+)
• GTA5-Mods — Vehicle/script packs

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How to Install Resources

Method 1: txAdmin (Recommended)

1. Login to txAdmin
2. Navigate to Resources
3. Click Install from URL
4. Paste GitHub repository URL
5. Click Install
6. Restart server

Method 2: Manual FTP

1. Download resource .zip or .rar
2. Extract folder
3. Connect via FTP/SFTP
4. Upload folder to /resources/[category]/
5. Add to server.cfg:

   ensure resource-name

6. Restart server

Folder Structure:

server/
  resources/
    [esx]/           # ESX framework resources
      es_extended/
      esx_jobs/
      esx_policejob/
    [qb]/            # QBCore framework resources
      qb-core/
      qb-policejob/
    [standalone]/    # Framework-independent
      mythic_notify/
      pma-voice/
    [maps]/          # Custom maps
    [vehicles]/      # Vehicle packs

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Essential Resources for RP Servers

Core (Required):

1. Framework — ESX or QBCore
2. oxmysql — Database connector
3. pma-voice — Voice chat
4. screenshot-basic — ID verification

Jobs (Popular):

1. Police — Law enforcement job
2. EMS/Doctor — Medical services
3. Mechanic — Vehicle repairs
4. Taxi — Taxi service
5. Real Estate — Property sales

Essentials:

1. Inventory System — Better than default
2. Phone System — GCPhone or QBPhone
3. HUD — Custom UI
4. Clothing — fivem-appearance or illenium-appearance
5. Housing — Property system

Quality of Life:

1. Banking — ATM and banking system
2. Garages — Vehicle storage
3. Shops — 24/7 stores, weapon shops
4. Fuel System — Realistic fuel consumption
5. Death System — Respawn/revive mechanics

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MySQL Database Setup

FiveM servers require MySQL for data persistence (player info, inventories, vehicles, etc.).

Option 1: Local MySQL (Self-Hosting)

Windows:

1. Download MariaDB or MySQL
2. Install with default settings
3. Set root password during installation
4. Create database:

CREATE DATABASE fivem CHARACTER SET utf8mb4 COLLATE utf8mb4_unicode_ci;

Linux (Ubuntu):

# Install MariaDB
sudo apt install mariadb-server -y

# Secure installation
sudo mysql_secure_installation

# Create database
sudo mysql -u root -p

CREATE DATABASE fivem CHARACTER SET utf8mb4 COLLATE utf8mb4_unicode_ci;
CREATE USER 'fivem'@'localhost' IDENTIFIED BY 'your_password';
GRANT ALL PRIVILEGES ON fivem.* TO 'fivem'@'localhost';
FLUSH PRIVILEGES;
EXIT;

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Option 2: Remote MySQL (Managed Hosting)

Most FiveM hosts include MySQL database.

Connection String Format:

mysql://username:password@host/database?charset=utf8mb4

Example (Mamba Host):

mysql://fivem_user:SecureP@ss!@localhost/fivem_db?charset=utf8mb4

Add to server.cfg:

set mysql_connection_string "mysql://username:password@host/database?charset=utf8mb4"

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Install oxmysql (Required)

oxmysql is the modern MySQL connector for FiveM.

1. Download: oxmysql GitHub
2. Extract to /resources/[standalone]/oxmysql/
3. Add to server.cfg:

   ensure oxmysql
   set mysql_connection_string "your_connection_string"

Test Connection:

Start server and check console for:

[oxmysql] Connected to database 'fivem' successfully!

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Performance Optimization

FiveM servers can be resource-intensive. Here’s how to optimize for best performance.

Server Configuration Optimization

server.cfg tweaks:

# OneSync Configuration
set onesync on
set onesync_enableInfinity 1
set onesync_enableBeyond false
set onesync_population true

# Performance Settings
set sv_fpsLimit 100
set sv_enforceGameBuild 2802

# Network Optimization
set sv_maxclients 32  # Start low, scale up
set sv_endpointprivacy true

# Resource Limits
set sv_scriptHookAllowed 0

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Resource Optimization Tips

1. Audit Resource Performance

Use txAdmin’s built-in profiler:

1. Navigate to Live Console
2. Type profiler record 300 (records for 5 minutes)
3. Type profiler view to see resource performance

Look for:

• ⚠️ Resources using >10ms consistently
• ⚠️ High tick time (should be <10ms)
• ⚠️ Memory leaks (RAM usage constantly increasing)

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2. Remove Unused Resources

Only load resources you actually use:

# BAD: Loading everything
ensure all_resources

# GOOD: Load only what's needed
ensure es_extended
ensure esx_policejob
ensure esx_ambulancejob
# etc.

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3. Optimize Heavy Resources

Common Performance Drains:

1. Vehicle Spawners — Limit spawned vehicles
2. Inventory Systems — Use optimized versions (ox_inventory)
3. HUDs — Minimize NUI updates
4. Maps/MLOs — Remove unused custom maps

Optimization:

• Use streaming instead of pre-loading
• Reduce draw distance for props
• Optimize scripts (avoid Citizen.Wait(0))

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4. Database Optimization

-- Add indexes to frequently queried columns
ALTER TABLE users ADD INDEX idx_identifier (identifier);
ALTER TABLE owned_vehicles ADD INDEX idx_owner (owner);

Use connection pooling in oxmysql:

set mysql_connection_string "mysql://user:pass@host/db?charset=utf8mb4&connectionLimit=10"

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Server Hardware Optimization

CPU:

• FiveM favors high single-core performance
• Ryzen 9 5950X or Intel i9-12900K recommended
• Overclock if possible (self-hosting)

RAM:

• 4GB minimum, 6-8GB recommended
• DDR4 3200MHz+ or DDR5
• Monitor usage with txAdmin

Storage:

• NVMe SSD is critical for FiveM
• SATA SSD is acceptable but slower
• HDD is unusable for FiveM

Network:

• 50+ Mbps upload for 32 players
• 100+ Mbps for 64 players
• DDoS protection essential

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Troubleshooting

Common Issues & Fixes

Issue: Server Won’t Start

Symptoms: Server immediately crashes or exits

Solutions:

1. ✓ Verify license key is valid
2. ✓ Check server.cfg for syntax errors
3. ✓ Ensure all ports are open (30120, 40120)
4. ✓ Check txAdmin logs for errors
5. ✓ Verify Visual C++ installed (Windows)

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Issue: Players Can’t Connect

Symptoms: “Could not connect to server” or timeout errors

Solutions:

1. ✓ Verify port forwarding (30120 TCP/UDP)
2. ✓ Check firewall settings
3. ✓ Ensure server is running (sv_maxclients not reached)
4. ✓ Give players correct IP: connect SERVER_IP:30120 in F8 console
5. ✓ Check if OneSync is enabled for 32+ players

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Issue: High Server Latency/Lag

Symptoms: Players experience delay, rubber-banding

Solutions:

1. ✓ Check resource performance (profiler record 300)
2. ✓ Reduce sv_maxclients to match your hardware
3. ✓ Optimize database queries
4. ✓ Remove heavy/poorly optimized resources
5. ✓ Upgrade server hardware (CPU most important)
6. ✓ Use NVMe storage instead of SSD/HDD

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Issue: Database Connection Failed

Symptoms: “Can’t connect to MySQL” errors

Solutions:

1. ✓ Verify MySQL service is running
2. ✓ Check connection string in server.cfg
3. ✓ Ensure database exists
4. ✓ Verify user has permissions
5. ✓ Test with: mysql -u username -p database_name

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Issue: Resources Not Loading

Symptoms: Job scripts, inventory, etc. not working

Solutions:

1. ✓ Check server.cfg for ensure resource-name
2. ✓ Verify resource folder name matches config
3. ✓ Check fxmanifest.lua for errors
4. ✓ Ensure dependencies loaded first
5. ✓ Review console for error messages

Load Order Example:

# Framework first
ensure es_extended

# Dependencies
ensure oxmysql
ensure pma-voice

# Jobs (after framework)
ensure esx_policejob
ensure esx_ambulancejob

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Frequently Asked Questions

How much does it cost to host a FiveM server?

Self-Hosting:

• Free software (FiveM is free)
• Electricity: $30-60/mo (24/7 PC)
• Hardware wear and tear
• Time investment for maintenance

Managed Hosting:

• $10-15/mo: 16-32 players, 4GB RAM
• $20-30/mo: 32-48 players, 6-8GB RAM
• $40-60/mo: 48-64 players, 12GB+ RAM
• $80+/mo: Enterprise, dedicated resources

💰 Reality: Managed hosting is cheaper than self-hosting when factoring in electricity and time.

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How many players can my FiveM server handle?

Formula: ~8 players per 1GB RAM (with optimization)

RAM	Players (Light RP)	Players (Heavy RP)
4GB	24-32	16-24
6GB	32-48	24-32
8GB	48-64	32-48
12GB	64-96	48-64

Factors:

• Resource count and optimization
• Database performance
• CPU single-core speed
• Network bandwidth

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ESX or QBCore: Which should I choose?

Choose ESX if:

• You’re new to FiveM
• You want maximum resource compatibility
• You prioritize free resources
• You want extensive documentation

Choose QBCore if:

• You prioritize performance
• You want modern, clean code
• You’re comfortable with less resources
• You plan to develop custom scripts

Both are excellent. ESX has more resources, QBCore has better performance.

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Do I need a license key?

Yes. FiveM requires a free license key from Cfx.re Keymaster.

Requirements:

• Cfx.re account
• Linked to server IP
• One key per server

Free and instant. No cost for the license.

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Can I monetize my FiveM server?

Yes, but with restrictions:

Allowed:

• ✅ Donations (optional, no exclusive benefits)
• ✅ Cosmetic perks (custom cars, clothing)
• ✅ Priority queue
• ✅ Tebex store integration

Not Allowed:

• ❌ Pay-to-win mechanics
• ❌ Selling in-game advantages
• ❌ Locked content behind paywall

Rockstar’s Rules: No selling in-game money, items that affect gameplay balance.

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How do I backup my FiveM server?

Manual Backup:

1. Stop server
2. Copy entire server folder
3. Store on external drive/cloud

Automated (txAdmin):

1. Navigate to Settings → Backups
2. Configure backup schedule
3. Set retention (how many backups to keep)

What to Backup:

• /resources/ folder
• server.cfg
• MySQL database (export via phpMyAdmin or mysqldump)

Backup Frequency:

• Daily automated backups
• Manual before major updates
• Before installing new resources

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What’s the best location for my FiveM server?

Choose based on player base:

Location	Best For	Typical Ping
Texas, USA	NA Central, Mexico	20-60ms
New York, USA	NA East, EU	30-80ms
California, USA	NA West, Asia-Pacific	25-70ms
London, UK	Europe	10-50ms
Frankfurt, Germany	Central EU	10-50ms

Latency matters. Players with >150ms ping will have poor experience.

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Final Recommendation

Quick Decision Guide

Choose Self-Hosting if:

• You have a spare PC running 24/7
• You’re comfortable with server administration
• You have unlimited time for troubleshooting
• Player count under 16

Choose Managed Hosting if:

• You want reliability and uptime
• You value your time over saving money
• You need support when issues arise
• Player count 16+

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Start Your FiveM Server Today

Option 1: DIY Setup (4-8 hours)

1. Install FiveM artifacts
2. Set up txAdmin
3. Choose ESX or QBCore
4. Configure MySQL
5. Install resources
6. Port forward
7. Test and optimize

Option 2: Instant Managed Setup (2 minutes)

1. Choose Mamba Host FiveM plan
2. Select RAM & location
3. Complete order
4. Server auto-deploys with txAdmin
5. Choose ESX or QBCore recipe
6. Done!

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Mamba Host FiveM Features:

• ✅ txAdmin pre-installed
• ✅ MySQL database configured
• ✅ NVMe storage (critical for FiveM)
• ✅ DDoS protection included
• ✅ 24/7 Discord + ticket support
• ✅ Daily automatic backups
• ✅ 99.9% uptime guarantee
• ✅ Instant setup (<2 minutes)
• ✅ Starting at $14.99/mo

View FiveM Hosting Plans →

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Need help? Join our Discord community or contact support — we’re here 24/7!

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Last updated: October 16, 2025 Target keyword: “fivem server hosting” (14,100 monthly searches)