How to Host an Arma Reforger Server: The Ultimate Step-by-Step Guide

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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