How to install mods on a DayZ server?

Mods transform DayZ (new weapons, maps, vehicles, interfaces…). They are grabbed from the Steam Workshop and added to the dedicated server via folders and a launch parameter. Here is how to do it, by hand then in 1 click on a dedicated DayZ host.

1. Grab the mods from the Steam Workshop

Each DayZ mod is published on the Steam Workshop. Subscribe to the mod, then retrieve its @ModName folder (generated by Steam) containing the mod's files and its bikey key.

2. Drop the @Mod folders onto the server

Place each @ModName folder in the root of the dedicated server. Then copy each mod's .bikey key into the server's keys/ folder: without it, players will not be able to connect with the mod active.

3. Load the mods with the -mod parameter

At launch, specify the mods via the -mod= parameter, separating each mod with a semicolon, for example -mod=@Mod1;@Mod2;@Mod3. Order can matter: follow each mod's recommendations.

4. Adapt the config (types.xml)

Many mods add items that must appear in the loot. You then need to declare them in types.xml (or load the file provided by the mod). This step ties into general configuration: see How to configure a DayZ server.

Install mods one by one and test: an incompatible mod or a missing bikey key can prevent the server from starting or block connections. If there is a problem, remove the last one added.

The 1-click version

The FlyPanel panel of our DayZ servers installs Steam Workshop mods in one click: it downloads the mod, places the bikey keys and updates the launch parameter automatically, without handling any files. A real time-saver when you manage a community. To pick the right machine before stacking mods, read What is the best host for a DayZ server? Our offers start at €8.99/month, DDoS protection included.