Complete FiveM Server Setup Guide: From Zero to Launch 2024

Comprehensive guide to setting up a FiveM server from scratch. Hardware requirements, framework installation, and optimization for success.

By Throttle Solutions Team2024-03-1818 min read
FiveM ServerServer SetupInstallation Guide

Complete FiveM Server Setup Guide: From Zero to Launch 2024


Setting up a professional FiveM server requires careful planning, proper hardware, and expert configuration. This comprehensive guide covers everything from initial setup to launch, helping you create a server that can compete in today's market.


Pre-Setup Planning


Define Your Server Type

Before touching any hardware, decide on your server's focus:

  • **100K or Die**: Fast-paced action with high starting cash
  • **Semi Serious RP**: Balanced roleplay and accessibility
  • **Serious RP**: Immersive, realistic roleplay experience
  • **Custom Concept**: Unique theme or gameplay style

  • Market Research

    Analyze successful servers in your chosen category:

  • **Popular Features**: What attracts players to similar servers
  • **Community Feedback**: Common complaints and desired improvements
  • **Competition Analysis**: How to differentiate your server
  • **Monetization Models**: Sustainable revenue strategies

  • Hardware Requirements by Server Size


    Small Server (32-64 Players)

    **Minimum Specifications:**

  • **CPU**: Intel i5-9400K or AMD Ryzen 5 3600
  • **RAM**: 16GB DDR4
  • **Storage**: 500GB SSD
  • **Network**: 100Mbps dedicated
  • **Operating System**: Ubuntu 20.04 LTS or Windows Server 2019

  • Medium Server (64-100 Players)

    **Recommended Specifications:**

  • **CPU**: Intel i7-10700K or AMD Ryzen 7 3700X
  • **RAM**: 32GB DDR4
  • **Storage**: 1TB NVMe SSD
  • **Network**: 500Mbps dedicated
  • **Database**: Dedicated MySQL server recommended

  • Large Server (100+ Players)

    **Enterprise Specifications:**

  • **CPU**: Intel i9-12900K or AMD Ryzen 9 5900X
  • **RAM**: 64GB DDR4 3200MHz
  • **Storage**: 2TB NVMe SSD in RAID 1
  • **Network**: 1Gbps with DDoS protection
  • **Database**: Dedicated high-performance MySQL server
  • **Backup**: Automated daily backups to separate storage

  • FiveM Installation and Configuration


    Step 1: Server Files Setup

    Download FiveM server files

    wget https://runtime.fivem.net/artifacts/fivem/build_proot_linux/master/fx.tar.xz

    tar -xvf fx.tar.xz

    cd fx


    Step 2: Basic Configuration

    Create your `server.cfg` file:

    Basic server information

    sv_hostname "Your Server Name | Custom Scripts | Active Staff"

    sv_maxclients 64

    set sv_licenseKey "your_keymaster_license_key"

    set steam_webApiKey "your_steam_api_key"


    Game settings

    set gamemode "qbcore" # or "esx"

    set mapname "Los Santos"

    set sv_scriptHookAllowed 0

    set sv_enforceGameBuild 2802


    Network optimization

    set netThreads 4

    set netSyncLog 0

    set netLogThroughput 1


    OneSync configuration

    set onesync on

    set onesync_enableInfinity 1

    set onesync_enableBeyond 1

    set onesync_population 1


    Database connection

    set mysql_connection_string "server=localhost;database=fivem;userid=root;password=yourpassword;charset=utf8mb4"


    Essential resources

    ensure mapmanager

    ensure chat

    ensure spawnmanager

    ensure sessionmanager

    ensure basic-gamemode

    ensure hardcap

    ensure rconlog


    Load your framework

    ensure qb-core # or esx_legacy


    Start command

    endpoint_add_tcp "0.0.0.0:30120"

    endpoint_add_udp "0.0.0.0:30120"


    Framework Installation


    QBCore Framework Setup

    Clone QBCore repository

    git clone https://github.com/qbcore-framework/qb-core.git

    cd qb-core


    Install dependencies

    npm install


    Configure database

    mysql -u root -p < qbcore.sql


    ESX Framework Setup

    Clone ESX repository

    git clone https://github.com/esx-framework/esx_legacy.git

    cd esx_legacy


    Install database

    mysql -u root -p < es_extended.sql


    Database Configuration


    MySQL Optimization

    -- Essential MySQL settings for FiveM

    [mysqld]

    innodb_buffer_pool_size = 8G

    innodb_log_file_size = 1G

    innodb_log_buffer_size = 128M

    innodb_flush_log_at_trx_commit = 2

    query_cache_size = 256M

    max_connections = 500

    wait_timeout = 28800

    interactive_timeout = 28800


    Database Security

  • Create dedicated database user for FiveM
  • Use strong passwords
  • Limit connection permissions
  • Regular backup schedules
  • Monitor for suspicious activity

  • Essential Scripts and Resources


    Core Scripts (Must-Have)

  • **Framework**: QBCore or ESX
  • **Inventory System**: Modern item management
  • **Phone System**: Smartphone interface
  • **Banking System**: Financial management
  • **Housing System**: Property ownership
  • **Vehicle System**: Car dealerships and garages
  • **Job System**: Employment opportunities

  • Quality of Life Scripts

  • **Loading Screen**: Custom server branding
  • **Character Creator**: Advanced customization
  • **Clothing Shops**: Fashion and accessories
  • **Food System**: Hunger and thirst mechanics
  • **Chat System**: Enhanced communication
  • **Admin Tools**: Server management

  • Security Scripts

  • **Anti-Cheat**: Protection against exploits
  • **Spectate System**: Staff oversight tools
  • **Logging System**: Comprehensive activity logs
  • **Blacklist System**: Ban management
  • **Whitelist System**: Controlled access

  • Performance Optimization


    Server-Side Optimization

  • **Resource Loading**: Optimize loading order
  • **Thread Management**: Efficient CPU usage
  • **Memory Management**: Prevent memory leaks
  • **Database Queries**: Optimize for speed
  • **Event Handling**: Minimize unnecessary triggers

  • Client-Side Optimization

  • **Asset Streaming**: Efficient resource downloading
  • **Texture Optimization**: Balanced quality and performance
  • **LOD Management**: Distance-based detail levels
  • **Frame Rate Optimization**: Maintain smooth gameplay

  • Security Implementation


    Access Control

  • **Whitelist System**: Controlled player access
  • **Staff Permissions**: Hierarchical admin system
  • **Steam Authentication**: Verified player identity
  • **Discord Integration**: Community verification

  • Anti-Cheat Measures

  • **Server-Side Validation**: All actions verified server-side
  • **Suspicious Activity Detection**: Automated monitoring
  • **Resource Protection**: Encrypted important files
  • **Regular Security Audits**: Ongoing vulnerability assessment

  • Launch Preparation


    Pre-Launch Testing

    1. **Stress Testing**: Test with maximum expected players

    2. **Feature Testing**: Verify all systems work correctly

    3. **Performance Testing**: Monitor resource usage

    4. **Security Testing**: Identify vulnerabilities

    5. **User Experience Testing**: Gather player feedback


    Staff Training

  • **Admin Commands**: Comprehensive command training
  • **Situation Handling**: Roleplay scenario management
  • **Technical Support**: Basic troubleshooting skills
  • **Community Guidelines**: Rules and enforcement

  • Marketing Strategy

  • **Discord Setup**: Community hub creation
  • **Social Media**: Twitter, Instagram, TikTok presence
  • **Trailer Creation**: Showcase server features
  • **Influencer Outreach**: Partner with FiveM content creators
  • **Launch Event**: Special opening celebration

  • Post-Launch Management


    Monitoring and Maintenance

  • **Performance Monitoring**: Real-time server health
  • **Player Feedback**: Community suggestions
  • **Regular Updates**: New features and improvements
  • **Security Updates**: Ongoing protection measures
  • **Backup Verification**: Ensure data safety

  • Growth Strategies

  • **Community Events**: Regular engaging activities
  • **Feature Updates**: New content to retain players
  • **Quality Improvements**: Continuous enhancement
  • **Player Recognition**: Reward loyal community members

  • Common Pitfalls to Avoid


    Technical Mistakes

  • **Insufficient Hardware**: Underestimating resource needs
  • **Poor Database Design**: Inefficient query structure
  • **Weak Security**: Inadequate protection measures
  • **Missing Backups**: Risk of data loss

  • Community Management Errors

  • **Inconsistent Rules**: Unclear or changing guidelines
  • **Poor Staff Training**: Unprepared administration
  • **Ignoring Feedback**: Not listening to player concerns
  • **Over-Monetization**: Excessive pay-to-win elements

  • Professional Development Services


    Setting up a professional FiveM server is complex and time-consuming. Throttle Solutions offers complete server setup services:


    Our Setup Package Includes:

  • **Hardware Consultation**: Right-sized specifications
  • **Complete Installation**: Framework and essential scripts
  • **Custom Configuration**: Optimized for your server type
  • **Security Implementation**: Comprehensive protection
  • **Staff Training**: Complete administration education
  • **Launch Support**: Assistance during critical first days

  • Why Choose Professional Setup?

  • **Faster Launch**: Weeks instead of months
  • **Professional Quality**: Enterprise-grade configuration
  • **Ongoing Support**: Long-term partnership
  • **Competitive Advantage**: Stand out from basic setups

  • Conclusion


    Setting up a successful FiveM server requires expertise across multiple technical domains. While this guide provides the foundation, professional assistance can dramatically improve your chances of success.


    Ready to launch your FiveM server with professional support? Contact Throttle Solutions for complete setup services that ensure your server launches successfully and scales smoothly.


    Need Professional FiveM Development?

    Ready to implement these techniques on your server? Our team of expert developers can help you build, optimize, and maintain your FiveM server.