Posted on February 4, 2025 in General
How to Host an Arma Reforger Server: The Ultimate Step-by-Step Guide
by Lou P.
Arma Reforger is a next-generation military simulation game that offers a realistic battlefield experience, advanced modding capabilities, and dedicated server support.
Built on the revolutionary Enfusion Engine, it introduces cross-platform multiplayer, real-time physics, and scenario-based warfare, making dedicated servers essential for smooth, customized, and persistent gameplay.
Why Host an Arma Reforger Server?
Hosting your own dedicated Arma Reforger server offers:
✅ Full control over server settings, game rules, and mods – enabling a tailored gameplay experience.
✅ Reliable multiplayer performance – providing low-latency, lag-free gaming with optimized tick rates.
✅ Custom scenarios and persistent worlds – allowing continuous gameplay, saving progress across sessions.
✅ Better security and server administration – control access permissions, player bans, and server rules.
This guide will walk you through:
- Setting up a dedicated Arma Reforger server manually (for advanced users).
- Using Host Havoc’s managed hosting solution (for streamlined performance & ease of use).
🚀 Want instant setup? Host your Arma Reforger server with Host Havoc.
What is Arma Reforger?
Before getting into server hosting, knowing how Arma Reforger’s technical architecture affects performance is important.
Game Overview
Arma Reforger is an immersive Cold War-era military sandbox, featuring:
- Large-scale multiplayer warfare with infantry, vehicles, and dynamic AI.
- Cross-platform play between PC and Xbox.
- Fully integrated modding tools, enabling real-time content customization.
- Upgraded AI and physics systems, requiring dedicated computational resources.
How the Enfusion Engine Impacts Server Hosting
Unlike its predecessor, Arma 3, Arma Reforger runs on the Enfusion Engine, which introduces:
✅ Real-Time Modding & Customization – servers must support live mod updates.
✅ Dynamic AI Behaviors & Physics Simulations – requiring higher CPU processing power.
✅ Persistent Multiplayer Environments – demanding fast storage and optimized database management.
✅ Dedicated Network Infrastructure – using UDP-based communication for low-latency gameplay.
Why Do You Need a Dedicated Arma Reforger Server?
A dedicated server provides improved stability, security, and scalability compared to traditional peer-to-peer (P2P) hosting.
The Advantages of Hosting Your Own Server
✅ Improved Network Performance – Reduces lag, jitter, and disconnects by eliminating reliance on individual player hosts.
✅ Full Customization – Adjust AI behavior, weapon balancing, mission scripting, and game economy settings.
✅ Expanded Player Capacity – Supports larger multiplayer engagements, perfect for MILSIM (Military Simulation) communities.
✅ Integrated Mod Support – Hosts can install community-created weapons, vehicles, and scenarios.
Hosting Options: Self-Hosting vs. Managed Hosting
Arma Reforger servers can be self-hosted (manual setup) or deployed using a managed hosting provider like Host Havoc.
Self-Hosting (Manual Setup)
🛠️ Who It’s For: Advanced users who want complete control over server settings, performance optimization, and mod management.
✅ Requires manual configuration and port forwarding.
✅ Provides full admin privileges for deep customization.
✅ Can be cost-effective, but demands technical knowledge.
| Pros | Cons |
| Full control over all game settings | Requires manual networking setup |
| No monthly hosting fees | High hardware & bandwidth demands |
| Advanced modding & scripting support | Time-consuming maintenance |
Managed Hosting with Host Havoc
🚀 Who It’s For: Players who want a high-performance, plug-and-play server without technical complexities.
✅ Instant setup – deploy a server within minutes.
✅ Enterprise-grade hardware – NVMe SSD storage, 10Gbps uplinks, and DDoS protection.
✅ User-friendly control panel – one-click mod installation & automated backups.
📌 Host Havoc vs. Other Hosting Providers
| Feature | Host Havoc | GTX Gaming | Nitrado |
| DDoS Protection | ✅ Yes | ✅ Yes | ❌ No |
| 24/7 Support | ✅ Yes | ✅ Yes | ❌ Limited |
| Mod Support | ✅ Full | ⚠️ Limited | ✅ Full |
| Instant Setup | ✅ Yes | ✅ Yes | ❌ No |
Step 1: Server Prerequisites & System Requirements
Before setting up your Arma Reforger server, verify your system meets the necessary specifications
Recommended Hardware Requirements
| Server Type | CPU | RAM | Storage | Bandwidth |
| Small Private Server (1-10 Players) | Intel i5 / Ryzen 2600 | 8GB | 40GB SSD | 10 Mbps Upload |
| Large Public Server (10-50 Players) | Xeon / Ryzen 7 | 16GB | NVMe SSD | 100 Mbps Upload |
| Mod-Intensive Server (50+ Mods Installed) | High-Core Xeon | 32GB | NVMe SSD | 500 Mbps+ Upload |
Required Software & Networking Configurations
✅ Windows Server / Linux OS (Ubuntu 20.04 recommended).
✅ SteamCMD – To download & install server files.
✅ Firewall & Port Forwarding Setup – Required for public server access.
Setting up an Arma Reforger dedicated server provides a seamless, mod-friendly, and optimized multiplayer experience.
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Step 2: Installing the Arma Reforger Server
Now that your system meets the requirements, it's time to install and configure your Arma Reforger dedicated server. This process involves downloading the server files, setting up SteamCMD, and configuring basic settings for server functionality.
2.1 Installing SteamCMD (Required for Server Deployment)
SteamCMD is a command-line tool that allows server owners to download and update dedicated server files for Steam-based games.
Step-by-Step Guide to Installing SteamCMD on Windows
- Download SteamCMD from the official Valve Developer page.
- Extract the .zip file into a directory such as:
C:\SteamCMD - Open Command Prompt (cmd) and navigate to the SteamCMD directory:
cd C:\SteamCMD - Run SteamCMD:
steamcmd
Step-by-Step Guide to Installing SteamCMD on Linux
- Open the terminal and install the required dependencies:
sudo apt update && sudo apt install lib32gcc-s1 - Create a directory for SteamCMD and download the installer:
mkdir ~/SteamCMD && cd ~/SteamCMD
wget https://steamcdn-a.akamaihd.net/client/installer/steamcmd_linux.tar.gz - Extract the files:
tar -xvzf steamcmd_linux.tar.gz - Run SteamCMD:
./steamcmd.sh
2.2 Installing the Arma Reforger Dedicated Server Files
Once SteamCMD is installed, you can proceed to download the latest Arma Reforger server files.
Windows Installation Using SteamCMD
- In the SteamCMD console, log in as an anonymous user:
login anonymous - Set the installation directory for the Arma Reforger server:
force_install_dir C:\ArmaReforgerServer - Download and install the server files:
app_update 1874900 validate - Once completed, exit SteamCMD:
quit
Linux Installation Using SteamCMD
- Log in as an anonymous user:
./steamcmd.sh +login anonymous - Set the installation directory:
force_install_dir /home/user/ArmaReforgerServer - Download and install the server files:
app_update 1874900 validate - Exit SteamCMD:
quit
🚀 Your Arma Reforger server files are now installed!
Step 3: Configuring the Arma Reforger Server
After installing the server files, you must configure server settings, networking parameters, and administrative controls to obtain optimal performance.
3.1 Creating and Editing the config.json File
The server configuration file (config.json) controls the server name, password settings, game modes, and mod configurations.
Where to Find the config.json File
- Windows: C:\ArmaReforgerServer\profiles\config.json
- Linux: /home/user/ArmaReforgerServer/profiles/config.json
Key Configuration Parameters
Below is a basic example of a well-structured config.json file:
{
"name": "My Arma Reforger Server",
"password": "mypassword",
"adminPassword": "adminpass123",
"scenarioId": "some_scenario",
"maxPlayers": 32,
"visible": true,
"crossPlatform": true,
"gameProperties": {
"maxViewDistance": 3000,
"disableThirdPerson": false,
"fastTravelEnabled": true
},
"mods": [
"mod_id_1",
"mod_id_2"
]
}
3.2 Explanation of Key Configuration Settings
| Setting | Description |
| "name" | The public name of your server. |
| "password" | The password required for players to join (leave blank for public). |
| "adminPassword" | The admin login password for controlling server settings. |
| "scenarioId" | Defines the mission or game mode being hosted. |
| "maxPlayers" | Sets the maximum number of players allowed on the server. |
| "visible" | Determines if the server is publicly listed in the server browser. |
| "crossPlatform" | Enables or disables PC-Xbox crossplay. |
| "gameProperties" | Additional settings such as max view distance and third-person mode. |
| "mods" | A list of mod IDs loaded when the server starts. |
Step 4: Opening Ports for Public Server Access
To allow external players to connect to your server, you must configure port forwarding in your router settings.
4.1 Required Ports for Arma Reforger Servers
| Port | Protocol | Purpose |
| 20001 | UDP | Game Server Connection |
| 17777 | UDP | Server Browser Communication |
| 27016 | UDP | Steam Query Port |
4.2 Configuring Firewall and Router Port Forwarding
For Windows Firewall
- Open Windows Defender Firewall with Advanced Security.
- Click Inbound Rules > New Rule.
- Select Port, then click Next.
- Choose UDP, and enter:
20001, 17777, 27016 - Click Allow the connection, then Next.
- Name the rule "Arma Reforger Server" and click Finish.
For Router Port Forwarding
- Access your router settings (192.168.1.1 or 192.168.0.1).
- Locate Port Forwarding settings.
- Create a New Rule for UDP ports 20001, 17777, and 27016.
- Set the Local IP Address to match the server’s internal IP.
- Save changes and restart your router.
🚀 Your Arma Reforger server is now publicly accessible!
Step 5: Launching & Managing Your Server
Now that the server is installed, configured, and accessible, you need to start and manage it effectively.
5.1 Creating a Startup Script (start.bat)
For easy server launches, create a batch script (start.bat) in your Arma Reforger server folder:
@echo off
cd /d C:\ArmaReforgerServer
armaReforgerServer.exe -config=config.json -maxFPS=60
5.2 Starting the Server
- Windows: Double-click start.bat.
- Linux: Run:
./armaReforgerServer -config=config.json -maxFPS=60
5.3 Joining Your Server
- Launch Arma Reforger.
- Navigate to Multiplayer > Direct Connect.
- Enter your server’s IP address and port 20001.
- Click Connect.
🚀 Your server is now live and operational!
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Step 6: Optimizing Your Arma Reforger Server for Performance and Stability
Setting up an Arma Reforger dedicated server is just the first step. To create a smooth, lag-free, and optimized gaming experience, you need to fine-tune performance settings, adjust networking parameters, and monitor resource utilization.
6.1 Key Factors That Influence Server Performance
Arma Reforger relies heavily on:
✅ CPU Processing Power – Handles AI behavior, physics, and game logic calculations.
✅ RAM Allocation – Stores real-time game data, player states, and mod dependencies.
✅ Storage Speed – NVMe SSDs significantly reduce loading times for assets and logs.
✅ Network Bandwidth – Low-latency connections allow smoother multiplayer interactions.
📌 If your server is experiencing lag spikes or high CPU usage, follow the optimizations below.
6.2 Adjusting Server Performance Settings in config.json
The config.json file contains multiple performance-related parameters that directly impact gameplay.
Recommended Performance Settings
{
"name": "Optimized Arma Reforger Server",
"scenarioId": "some_scenario",
"maxPlayers": 40,
"gameProperties": {
"maxViewDistance": 2500,
"disableThirdPerson": false,
"fastTravelEnabled": false,
"networkTickRate": 60,
"bandwidthLimit": 100000,
"aiProcessingLimit": 20
}
}
Optimized Configuration Parameters
| Setting | Recommended Value | Impact |
| maxViewDistance | 2500 | Reduces CPU & GPU processing demand |
| networkTickRate | 60 | Allows smoother player synchronization. |
| bandwidthLimit | 100000 | Prevents server congestion in high-player scenarios. |
| aiProcessingLimit | 20 | Optimizes AI pathfinding & combat logic execution. |
🚀 Optimized settings reduce CPU workload by up to 30% while maintaining smooth gameplay.
6.3 CPU & RAM Optimization for Arma Reforger Servers
CPU Optimization (Windows Servers)
- Increase CPU priority for the Arma Reforger process:
- Open Task Manager (Ctrl + Shift + Esc).
- Locate armaReforgerServer.exe under the Processes tab.
- Right-click → Set Priority → High.
- Allocate specific CPU cores to the server (Affinity Tuning):
- Open Task Manager → Right-click armaReforgerServer.exe → Set Affinity.
- Assign cores 2-7 (leave core 0 free for system processes).
RAM Optimization (Windows & Linux)
- Allocate at least 2GB RAM per 10 players.
- Enable Windows Pagefile (Virtual Memory) for stability:
- Control Panel → System → Advanced System Settings → Performance Settings → Advanced → Virtual Memory
- Set Initial Size: 8192 MB, Maximum Size: 16384 MB (for a 16GB RAM system).
📌 For high-performance servers, upgrading to 32GB RAM provides stability under heavy mod loads.
6.4 Network Optimization: Reducing Lag & Packet Loss
| Issue | Cause | Solution |
| High ping (100ms+) | Poor server bandwidth | Upgrade to 100Mbps+ dedicated uplink. |
| Packet loss | Router congestion or DDoS attacks | Enable DDoS protection & optimize firewall rules. |
| Rubberbanding | Low tick rate or server overload | Set networkTickRate to 60+ in config.json. |
Configuring Firewall Rules for Performance Stability
- Open Windows Defender Firewall.
- Navigate to Inbound Rules → New Rule.
- Select Port, enter 20001, 17777, 27016 (UDP).
- Choose Allow the Connection → Apply changes.
✅ Proper firewall configurations allow uninterrupted server-client communication.
Step 7: Installing Mods & Custom Scenarios on Your Arma Reforger Server
7.1 Overview of Arma Reforger’s Modding System
Arma Reforger features a built-in modding framework, allowing custom maps, gameplay mechanics, and weapon assets. Mods are hosted via the Bohemia Interactive Workshop, making them easily accessible for server owners.
7.2 How to Install Mods on Your Server
Automatic Mod Installation Using Workshop Installer (Host Havoc Servers)
- Log into your Host Havoc control panel.
- Navigate to File Manager > Mods.
- Click "Workshop Installer" and search for your desired mods.
- Select mods and click "Install".
- Restart your server to apply changes.
Manual Mod Installation (Self-Hosted Servers)
- Download mod .pak files from the Bohemia Workshop.
- Move files to your Arma Reforger server’s Mods folder:
C:\ArmaReforgerServer\mods\ - Open config.json and add mod IDs:
"mods": ["mod_id_1", "mod_id_2"] - Restart your server.
✅ Proper mod installation improves gameplay without risking stability issues.
Step 8: Securing Your Arma Reforger Server from Exploits & Attacks
8.1 Common Security Threats in Arma Reforger Servers
| Threat | Risk Factor | Mitigation |
| DDoS Attacks | High | Use Host Havoc’s DDoS protection or Cloudflare. |
| Unauthorized Admin Access | Medium | Change default admin passwords regularly. |
| Mod Exploits | Low | Only use trusted, signed mods from official sources. |
8.2 Setting Up Admin Security in config.json
- Navigate to your server’s configuration folder.
- Open config.json and locate the admin credentials section.
- Set a strong admin password:
"adminPassword": "SuperSecurePass123" - Restart the server to apply changes.
🔹 Verify your admin password is at least 12 characters long and uses a mix of uppercase, lowercase, numbers, and symbols.
📌 Congratulations! Your Arma Reforger dedicated server is now fully optimized, secure, and ready for multiplayer action.
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Step 9: Advanced Server Administration & Player Management
Once your Arma Reforger server is set up and optimized for performance and security, it’s important to manage player access, administrator privileges, and automated server maintenance. Proper administration provides a smooth, fair, and enjoyable multiplayer experience for all users.
9.1 Configuring Admin Access & Permissions
Arma Reforger allows server administrators to execute commands, manage players, and enforce game rules via an admin password and role-based access control (RBAC).
Setting Up Admin Credentials in config.json
- Open your server configuration file (config.json).
- Locate the admin credentials section.
- Add or modify the admin password:
"adminPassword": "SecureAdminPass123" - Save the file and restart the server.
✅ A strong admin password should be at least 12 characters long and include a mix of letters, numbers, and symbols.
9.2 Executing Admin Commands & Server Controls
Administrators can perform primary server management functions using the in-game console or remote admin tools.
Key Admin Commands
| Command | Function |
| /adminlogin <password> | Grants administrator privileges. |
| /ban <playerID> | Bans a player from the server. |
| /kick <playerID> | Removes a player from the server. |
| /listplayers | Displays all connected players. |
| /restart | Restarts the server immediately. |
| /save | Saves the current game state. |
📌 To prevent unauthorized access, never share admin credentials with untrusted players.
9.3 Implementing Automated Server Restarts
To maintain optimal performance, it’s recommended to restart your server periodically. This clears memory leaks, resets resource usage, and prevents long-term lag.
Creating an Auto-Restart Task (Windows)
- Open Task Scheduler.
- Click Create Basic Task.
- Set a daily schedule (e.g., every 12 hours).
- Under Action, select Start a Program and enter:
C:\ArmaReforgerServer\start.bat - Click Finish to schedule automatic restarts.
✅ For Linux users, a CRON job can automate restarts:
0 */12 * * * /home/user/ArmaReforgerServer/start.sh
Step 10: Server Backup & Disaster Recovery Strategies
Backing up your Arma Reforger server ensures that game progress, custom settings, and player data remain safe in case of server crashes, corruption, or accidental data loss.
10.1 Creating Manual Server Backups
Windows Server Backup
- Navigate to the server directory:
C:\ArmaReforgerServer\ - Copy the following key folders:
- profiles/ (contains saved progress and logs)
- config.json (stores server settings)
- mods/ (contains installed mods)
- Paste them into a backup folder:
C:\ArmaReforgerBackups\backup-YYYY-MM-DD\ - Save the backup archive to an external drive or cloud storage.
Linux Server Backup
Run the following command to create a tar backup of your server directory:
tar -czvf arma_reforger_backup_$(date +%F).tar.gz /home/user/ArmaReforgerServer/
✅ Store backups in a secure, offsite location to prevent data loss.
10.2 Automating Scheduled Backups
Automating backups allows regular data protection without manual intervention.
Windows Automated Backup (Using Task Scheduler)
- Open Task Scheduler.
- Click Create Task and name it "Arma Reforger Backup".
- Under Triggers, schedule the backup to run every 24 hours.
- Under Actions, select Start a Program and enter:
robocopy C:\ArmaReforgerServer C:\ArmaReforgerBackups /E /R:3 /W:5 - Click Finish to enable automatic backups.
Linux Automated Backup (Using CRON Jobs)
Run the following CRON job to schedule a backup every 24 hours:
0 2 * * * tar -czvf /backups/arma_reforger_backup_$(date +%F).tar.gz /home/user/ArmaReforgerServer/
✅ Automated backups prevent catastrophic data loss in case of unexpected failures.
Step 11: Troubleshooting Common Server Issues
Even with an optimized setup, technical issues may arise. Below are solutions to the most common Arma Reforger server problems.
11.1 Connection Issues & Network Problems
| Issue | Cause | Solution |
| Players can’t connect | Port forwarding not configured | Verify ports 20001, 17777, and 27016 (UDP) are open. |
| High ping or lag | Low bandwidth or overloaded server | Upgrade to a higher-speed connection or reduce max players. |
| Server doesn’t appear in browser | Firewall blocking connections | Allow server ports through Windows Defender Firewall. |
Checking Port Status (Windows)
Run the following command to check open ports:
netstat -ano | findstr :20001
✅ If the port is not listed, adjust your firewall and router settings.
11.2 Server Crashes & Stability Issues
| Issue | Cause | Solution |
| Server crashes on startup | Corrupt or missing config.json | Restore a previous backup of config.json. |
| Players getting disconnected randomly | Network desync or CPU overload | Increase bandwidthLimit in config.json to 150000. |
| High CPU usage | AI processing overload | Reduce aiProcessingLimit in config.json to 15. |
📌 For persistent crashes, check server.log in your Arma Reforger directory for error messages.
11.3 Updating & Reinstalling the Server
Keeping your Arma Reforger server up to date ensures bug fixes, performance improvements, and security patches.
Updating via SteamCMD
- Open SteamCMD and run:
login anonymous
force_install_dir C:\ArmaReforgerServer
app_update 1874900 validate
quit - Restart the server to apply updates.
✅ It’s recommended to update at least once per month to stay current with game patches.
Step 12: Enabling Cross-Platform Play on Arma Reforger Servers
Arma Reforger supports cross-platform multiplayer between PC and Xbox, allowing a unified player base. Enabling crossplay requires specific server configurations to guarantee seamless communication between platforms.
12.1 Configuring Cross-Platform Play in config.json
To allow both PC and Xbox players to join your server, follow these steps:
Step 1: Open Your Server Configuration File
- Navigate to:
C:\ArmaReforgerServer\profiles\config.json - Open the file using Notepad++ or VS Code.
Step 2: Add or Modify the Crossplay Settings
{
"name": "Crossplay Arma Reforger Server",
"crossPlatform": true,
"maxPlayers": 32,
"gameProperties": {
"networkTickRate": 60,
"bandwidthLimit": 100000
}
}
✅ Verify crossPlatform is set to true to allow Xbox and PC players to connect.
12.2 Firewall & Network Requirements for Crossplay
Unlike standard PC servers, cross-platform Arma Reforger servers require additional ports to be opened for console traffic.
Required Ports for Crossplay Servers
| Port | Protocol | Purpose |
| 20001 | UDP | Standard Game Connection |
| 17777 | UDP | Server Browser Listing |
| 27016 | UDP | Steam Query Port |
| 20201 | UDP | Xbox Authentication |
📌 If Xbox players are unable to join, verify that 20201 (UDP) is open in your firewall settings.
How to Open Ports for Crossplay (Windows Firewall)
- Open Windows Defender Firewall.
- Navigate to Inbound Rules → New Rule.
- Select Port, then click Next.
- Choose UDP, and enter:
20001, 17777, 27016, 20201 - Click Allow the connection, then Next.
- Name the rule "Arma Reforger Crossplay" and click Finish.
🚀 Your server is now crossplay-compatible!
Step 13: Fine-Tuning Advanced Server Configurations
Once your Arma Reforger server is running, you can tweak advanced settings to enhance gameplay stability, optimize networking, and improve resource efficiency.
13.1 Adjusting Server Tick Rate for Improved Performance
The tick rate controls how frequently the server updates the game state for all connected players.
| Tick Rate | Best For | CPU Usage |
| 30 Hz | Casual servers (low activity) | Low |
| 45 Hz | Balanced experience | Moderate |
| 60 Hz | Competitive servers | High |
How to Adjust Tick Rate in config.json
"gameProperties": {
"networkTickRate": 60
}
💡 Higher tick rates improve responsiveness but increase CPU usage.
13.2 Bandwidth Optimization for Large Servers
Large servers with 30+ players require optimized bandwidth settings to prevent rubberbanding and packet loss.
Recommended Bandwidth Settings in config.json
"gameProperties": {
"bandwidthLimit": 150000
}
📌 For high-population servers, a dedicated 1 Gbps uplink is recommended for best performance.
13.3 Reducing AI Performance Overhead
AI units consume significant CPU resources, especially in large-scale battles.
How to Limit AI Processing Load
"gameProperties": {
"aiProcessingLimit": 15
}
💡 Lower values reduce AI strain but may impact combat complexity.
Step 14: Customizing Gameplay with Mods & Scenarios
14.1 Arma Reforger’s Modding System
Arma Reforger’s Bohemia Interactive Workshop allows server owners to install, manage, and update mods directly.
✅ Mods improve:
- Game mechanics (custom AI, vehicle physics).
- Weapon packs & faction expansions.
- Custom-built multiplayer missions.
14.2 Installing Mods on Your Server
Method 1: Using Host Havoc’s One-Click Workshop Installer
- Log into Host Havoc’s control panel.
- Navigate to File Manager > Mods.
- Click Workshop Installer and search for your desired mods.
- Select and install mods.
- Restart your server to apply changes.
✅ This method is ideal for quick, automated installations.
Method 2: Manual Mod Installation (Self-Hosted Servers)
- Download the mod .pak files from the Bohemia Workshop.
- Move the files to:
C:\ArmaReforgerServer\mods\ - Open config.json and add the mod IDs:
"mods": ["mod_id_1", "mod_id_2"] - Restart the server.
🚀 Your mods are now active!
Step 15: Monetizing Your Arma Reforger Server
Running a dedicated server comes with operational costs, including hardware, bandwidth, and maintenance expenses. Here’s how to offset costs or generate revenue.
15.1 Donation Systems & VIP Memberships
One of the most common monetization strategies is offering premium server perks in exchange for donations or VIP memberships.
| Monetization Model | Examples |
| VIP Access | Faster queue priority, reserved slots |
| Custom Skins | Unique player outfits or weapon skins |
| Server Sponsors | Branding placement for sponsors |
📌 Bohemia Interactive’s Monetization Policy: Always check the official Arma monetization guidelines before implementing paid services.
15.2 Affiliate Partnerships & Sponsored Content
✅ Ways to monetize via partnerships:
- Affiliate links to server hosting providers (e.g., Host Havoc).
- Sponsored in-game content (e.g., branded mission scenarios).
- YouTube & Twitch content creation featuring your server.
🚀 Combine multiple monetization strategies for sustained revenue generation.
By following this guide, you now have a fully configured, optimized, and cross-platform Arma Reforger server.
Step 16: Monitoring & Maintaining Your Arma Reforger Server
Once your Arma Reforger server is fully set up, it’s important to implement a maintenance and monitoring strategy to provide consistent uptime, lag-free performance, and secure gameplay.
16.1 Monitoring Server Performance in Real-Time
Server administrators should regularly monitor CPU usage, RAM allocation, network activity, and disk I/O performance to prevent crashes, lag spikes, and performance bottlenecks.
Recommended Monitoring Tools for Windows Servers
| Tool | Purpose |
| Task Manager (Ctrl + Shift + Esc) | Monitors CPU, RAM, and network usage. |
| Resource Monitor (resmon.exe) | Provides in-depth analysis of server resource allocation. |
| PerfMon (perfmon.exe) | Generates real-time performance logs. |
Recommended Monitoring Tools for Linux Servers
| Tool | Command | Function |
| htop | htop | Displays CPU & RAM usage in real-time. |
| iftop | iftop | Monitors network traffic and bandwidth utilization. |
| iostat | iostat -x 5 | Analyzes disk I/O performance. |
📌 Set up a scheduled task or CRON job to log performance data and detect potential issues early.
16.2 Automating Server Maintenance Tasks
To keep your Arma Reforger server running optimally, consider implementing automated maintenance scripts.
Daily Auto-Restart Script (Windows)
- Open Task Scheduler.
- Create a new task and schedule it to run every 24 hours.
- Set the action to execute:
C:\ArmaReforgerServer\restart.bat - Inside restart.bat, add:
@echo off
taskkill /IM armaReforgerServer.exe /F
timeout /t 5
start C:\ArmaReforgerServer\armaReforgerServer.exe -config=config.json
Daily Auto-Restart Script (Linux)
- Open terminal and edit the CRON jobs:
crontab -e - Add the following job to restart the server daily at 3 AM:
0 3 * * * systemctl restart armaReforger
✅ Automated restarts help prevent memory leaks, CPU overload, and long-term lag buildup.
Step 17: Troubleshooting Common Arma Reforger Server Issues
Even with a well-optimized setup, server administrators may encounter technical issues that impact gameplay. This section provides solutions for the most common Arma Reforger server problems.
17.1 Players Can’t Connect to the Server
Possible Causes & Fixes
| Issue | Cause | Solution |
| Server not visible in browser | Firewall blocking connections | Open UDP ports 20001, 17777, and 27016. |
| Players get "Connection Timeout" | Port forwarding not configured | Verify router port forwarding is enabled. |
| Xbox players can’t connect | Crossplay not enabled | Set "crossPlatform": true in config.json. |
How to Check if Ports Are Open
- Run the following command in Windows to verify open ports:
netstat -ano | findstr :20001 - Use an online port scanner (e.g. canyouseeme.org) to verify public port availability.
🚀 If issues persist, restart the server and check logs in server.log.
17.2 High Ping & Lag Spikes
Potential Causes & Fixes
| Issue | Cause | Solution |
| Players experience lag | High server tick rate without enough resources | Reduce "networkTickRate": 45 in config.json. |
| Rubberbanding & desync | Server bandwidth limit too low | Increase "bandwidthLimit": 150000. |
| Players frequently disconnect | Network congestion or DDoS attack | Enable DDoS protection via hosting provider. |
✅ For high-population servers (50+ players), upgrading to a 1 Gbps connection is recommended.
17.3 Server Crashes Frequently
Steps to Identify Crash Causes
- Check server logs (server.log) for error messages.
- Verify the latest game update is installed using SteamCMD:
steamcmd +login anonymous +force_install_dir C:\ArmaReforgerServer +app_update 1874900 validate +quit - Reduce AI load if too many AI entities exist in-game:
"gameProperties": {
"aiProcessingLimit": 15
} - Check disk space availability (Arma Reforger requires a minimum of 40GB free space).
✅ Frequent crashes are often linked to outdated server builds, AI overuse, or insufficient memory allocation.
Step 18: Expanding Your Server Community
Once your server is fully optimized, the next step is to attract and retain an active player base.
18.1 Promoting Your Arma Reforger Server
Best Strategies for Growing Your Player Base
| Promotion Method | Effectiveness | Notes |
| Reddit & Discord | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ | Engage in Arma communities & share server details. |
| Arma Reforger Server Browser | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ | Verify your server is public & properly tagged. |
| Game Server Listing Websites | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ | List on battlemetrics.com & topservers.com. |
| YouTube/Twitch Content | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ | Showcase gameplay & invite viewers to join. |
📌 Providing a unique experience (custom scenarios, MILSIM events) will help retain players.
18.2 Setting Up an In-Game Ranking & Reward System
Implementing player progression systems can encourage long-term engagement.
Popular In-Game Incentives
| Rank System | Reward |
| Veteran Rank (50+ hours) | Unlock unique player skins |
| Elite Operator Rank (100+ hours) | Reserved VIP slot |
| Clan Leader Rank | Ability to host private events |
✅ These rewards encourage player retention while maintaining fair gameplay.
18.3 Enabling a Community Discord Bot for Server Management
A Discord bot can automatically announce game events, server restarts, and moderation alerts.
How to Integrate a Discord Bot with Your Server
- Create a Discord bot using Discord Developer Portal.
- Use a bot framework like Dyno Bot or Mee6.
- Configure server uptime announcements:
!setgame Arma Reforger - Online with 32/40 players - Enable admin alerts for bans, kicks, and performance issues.
✅ This integration keeps players engaged and informed about server updates.
Final Thoughts
By following this guide, you’ve successfully:
✅ Deployed an optimized, crossplay-enabled Arma Reforger server.
✅ Implemented performance tuning and security best practices.
✅ Troubleshooted connectivity and stability issues.
✅ Expanded your player community through promotions and events.
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