how to make a beammp server

Daniel Parker

3 min read

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24-01-2025

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BeamMP, the popular BeamNG.drive multiplayer mod, allows for exciting online racing and collaborative gameplay. Hosting your own server offers greater control over the experience, letting you customize settings and invite friends. This guide will walk you through setting up your own BeamMP server.

Understanding the Prerequisites

Before diving in, ensure you meet these requirements:

• A Powerful Computer: Running a BeamMP server demands significant system resources, especially with many players. A powerful CPU, ample RAM (at least 16GB recommended), and a stable internet connection with a good upload speed are crucial. The more players you plan to support, the more powerful your hardware needs to be.

• BeamNG.drive and BeamMP: You'll obviously need the base game, BeamNG.drive, and the BeamMP mod installed correctly. Ensure both are up-to-date.

• A Dedicated IP Address (Recommended): While a dynamic IP address works, a static (or dedicated) IP address from your internet service provider makes it much easier for players to connect. This avoids issues with constantly changing IP addresses.

• Port Forwarding: BeamMP uses specific ports. You'll need to forward these ports on your router to your computer. This allows incoming connections from the internet to reach your server. Your router's configuration will determine the exact process, but it usually involves specifying the ports and your computer's internal IP address. Consult your router's manual if needed. Commonly used ports are 27015 and 27016, but always check the latest BeamMP documentation.

• A Server Hosting Provider (Optional): For a more reliable and accessible server, consider a dedicated server hosting provider. This removes the need to leave your home computer on constantly and offers better performance and bandwidth. These providers typically offer various plans depending on your needs.

Setting Up Your BeamMP Server

Here's a step-by-step guide:

1. Download the Server Files: BeamMP provides server files separate from the client-side mod. Download the latest version from the official BeamMP website or forums.

2. Extract and Configure: Extract the downloaded archive to a location of your choice. Locate the server.cfg configuration file. This file allows you to customize various server settings, including:

   • ServerName: The name players see when joining.
   • Game Password (optional): Protects your server from unwanted players.
   • MaxPlayers: The maximum number of players allowed on your server.
   • Map: The default map to load.
   • Vehicle Selection: Which vehicles players can choose. This can be a very specific selection or completely open.
   • Other settings: Numerous other options control gameplay, such as damage levels, time of day, and weather.

3. Run the Server: Navigate to the directory where you extracted the server files. Locate the server executable (usually a .exe file) and run it.

4. Troubleshooting Common Issues:

   • Port Forwarding Problems: If players can't connect, double-check your port forwarding configuration. Ensure the ports are correctly forwarded to your computer's IP address. Firewalls can also block connections; temporarily disable them to test if that’s the cause.

   • Server Crashes: BeamMP server crashes can be caused by several factors, including insufficient system resources, conflicting mods, or corrupted files. Check your system's specs, ensure your game files are not corrupted, and check the BeamMP forums for any known issues or bugs.

   • Low Player Count: Consider advertising your server on BeamNG.drive or BeamMP forums and communities to attract players.

Advanced Server Configuration

For more advanced users, explore the numerous server configuration options within the server.cfg file. You can customize almost every aspect of the gameplay experience to create a unique and enjoyable server for you and your friends. Experiment with different settings to find what works best for your community.

Regular Maintenance and Updates

Keep your BeamMP server updated with the latest versions to benefit from bug fixes and performance improvements. Regularly back up your server files to prevent data loss in case of unexpected issues.

Conclusion

Creating a BeamMP server allows for a more personalized and controlled multiplayer experience. By following this guide and understanding the prerequisites, you can successfully set up and manage your own thriving BeamMP community. Remember to always consult the official BeamMP documentation and forums for the most up-to-date information and troubleshooting assistance. Happy driving!