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:
Market Research
Analyze successful servers in your chosen category:
Hardware Requirements by Server Size
Small Server (32-64 Players)
**Minimum Specifications:**
Medium Server (64-100 Players)
**Recommended Specifications:**
Large Server (100+ Players)
**Enterprise Specifications:**
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.