0%
Loading...
NolimitHost

How to Update Your Project Zomboid Server

Last updated: September 18, 2026

Project Zomboid receives regular updates, and your server needs the matching build so that updated clients can join. This guide shows you how to update your server while keeping your config, mods, and saves.

Step 1: Back Up Your Files

Download copies of these from the server so nothing is lost if an update changes something:

  • Zomboid/Server/ - your servertest.ini and SandboxVars files.
  • Zomboid/Saves/ - your worlds.
  • Zomboid/db/ - player accounts, whitelist, and bans.

Step 2: Update the Server

  1. Log in to the NolimitHost Game Panel, select your Project Zomboid server, and stop it from the Console page.
  2. Go to Configuration > Advanced > Reinstall Server to re-run the installer. This validates and updates the server files to the build selected on the Startup tab.
  3. Start the server and check the console for the reported build number.

Updating on a VPS

If you run the server yourself, update it with SteamCMD using the dedicated server App ID 380870:

steamcmd +login anonymous +force_install_dir /path/to/server +app_update 380870 validate +quit

Run it from the same install directory you used originally so the update lands in the right place.

Note: 380870 is the dedicated server. The game client is 108600. Only the server app is updated on hosting.

Step 3: Match Your Game and Mods

  • Version: Let Steam update your own copy of Project Zomboid so it matches the server. A version mismatch is the most common reason a connection fails. See Change the Server Version.
  • Mods: After a game update, some mods may need to be updated too. Check the Workshop for newer versions and reload the server.
Important: Confirm your Zomboid/Server/ config and your saves are still present after updating. If an installer reset them, restore from your backup before starting the server.
Tip: If the server seems stuck on an old build, delete the server files (keeping your Zomboid data folder) and reinstall. Re-running the update alone sometimes refuses to re-download when only the build changed.