First Boot

1. Open your Project Zomboid server in the panel.
2. Click Start.
3. First boot downloads the server (about 4 GB). 8 to 12 minutes.
4. The console will prompt for an admin password on first boot. Type a strong password and press Enter. Then the world initializes.
5. When you see *** SERVER STARTED ****, the server is ready.

To connect: in PZ, Join Server > Add Server > enter IP, port (default 16261), and your account name.

Wipe / Reset

To wipe the world, stop the server and delete:

• Zomboid/Saves/Multiplayer/<servername>/ (the entire server save folder)

On next boot, a fresh world generates.

For a "soft wipe" (keep the world, reset players), delete only the player files inside the server save folder.

Backups

The server's BackupsOnStart, BackupsOnVersionChange, and BackupsCount settings create in-engine backups. Combined with the panel Backups tab, you have two layers of safety. Daily panel snapshots are recommended.

Common Issues

• Server stuck loading: Mods are incompatible or the save is corrupted. Try without mods to isolate.
• "Connection lost": Check PingLimit. Lower it if you have local players who get false-positive disconnects.
• Mods not downloading: Confirm both WorkshopItems and Mods fields are filled in correctly. Restart twice if a download fails the first time.
• High CPU: Reduce Zombies setting (Normal or Low), or upgrade the slot. Louisville zone is brutally CPU-heavy.

What to Read Next

• Project Zomboid Configuration
• Project Zomboid Admin Setup
• Installing Workshop Mods on Project Zomboid