Greetings, I’m Luke, and today I’ll guide you through the process of setting up a GTA RP server on FiveM, similar to the esteemed NoPixel community.
Estimated Time: Approximately 30-60 minutes (subject to variation based on your preferences, particularly if opting for a server template).
Prerequisite Skills: No prior coding expertise is required, as this tutorial elucidates the steps to establish a GTA RP server on FiveM without necessitating programming knowledge.
What is a framework?
A framework typically includes essential features and systems commonly used in roleplay servers, such as character creation, job systems, vehicle management, economy systems, and various roleplay mechanics. It simplifies the development process by offering a set of predefined scripts and assets that can be tailored to the server’s specific needs. This allows server administrators to focus on fine-tuning the gameplay experience, adding custom content, and ensuring the server runs smoothly, rather than starting from scratch.
For optimal efficiency and efficacy, leveraging pre-existing frameworks such as QBCore or ESX is recommended.
Requirements – What you’ll need
To initiate a GTA 5 roleplay server on FiveM, you’ll require the following:
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Server Hosting: You’ll require a server hosting service for FiveM. One option is to use a service like Zaphosting. Check our hoster overview here
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Database Server: You’ll need a database server, with MySQL being a commonly used choice. If you’re using Zaphosting, it’s usually integrated into the hosting package. A database server is responsible for saving all stats (like players, vehicles, houses, etc).
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Server Files: Obtain the necessary server files, which you can find either from specific sources or free alternatives. Alternatively, you can use a server template to simplify the setup process. Highly recommended.
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Visual C++ (if you’re installing the server on Windows): If you’re running your server on Windows, you may need Visual C++ installed. On Linux, you won’t need this.
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Server Name and Logo (Optional): You can choose a server name and create a server logo to personalize your server. If you need assistance with generating a server name or creating a logo, there are online resources and tutorials available.
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To generate a server name, you can use a free tool like: Server Name Generator
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To create a server logo, you can refer to a tutorial like this one: How to Create a FiveM Server Logo
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While starting with a server template is recommended for a quicker setup, if you’re inclined to do it yourself, you can learn LUA scripting, which is not as challenging as it may seem. There are tutorials available to help you get started.
If coding isn’t your preference or you’re short on time, it is considered purchasing a full server preset to kickstart your server setup.
Choosing the Framework
The primary frameworks for FiveM servers encompass:
Which framework should I choose?
Both frameworks have been developed for 3+ years and work well. ESX boasts a wealth of scripts, while QBCore is a newer and moderner option. If you’re uncertain, we suggest conducting some research and testing to determine which framework suits your needs best.
We have created a comparison of those two frameworks here: https://bestfivem.com/framework-comparison/
Leveraging FiveM Server Templates for Expedited Setup
Harnessing pre-configured server templates expedites the setup process significantly. This approach offers several benefits, including:
- Comprehensive job modules for immediate integration.
- Inclusion of pre-built maps.
- Administrative tools facilitating streamlined server management.
- Pre-configured database setup available for download in .SQL format.
- Substantial time savings, sparing considerable effort.
- Elimination of the need to commence from scratch, with foundational elements already in place.
Additionally, these server templates are backed by a refund guarantee, ensuring satisfaction and peace of mind.
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FiveM Server Templates
NoPixel 3.5 Inspired VIP Package V4
Rated 4.50 out of 5$217.76$163.02 Add to cart -
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FiveM Server Templates
NoPixel v3.5 (Latest) Inspired (QBUS Framework) Server Pack
Rated 4.50 out of 5$196.34$130.89 Add to cart -
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Police Scripts
NoPixel 3.5 Server Files Base (QBCore)
Rated 4.83 out of 5$386.74$163.02 Add to cart
Choosing a good Server Hoster (VPS/Dedicated)
One of the important decisions you’ll need to make when setting up your FiveM server is choosing the right hosting option. This decision plays a significant role in the performance, reliability, and scalability of your server. Two common hosting options for FiveM servers are Virtual Private Servers (VPS) and Dedicated Servers.
Most people start by renting a Zaphosting server. <- Click here to rent one.
If you prefer another host (which is OK), go for Ovh – they are the best option possible.
Attention: On OVH you have to set up the server by yourself, while Zaphosting has a Gameserver option (so everything is set up).
How to choose the right hosting
Virtual Private Server (VPS)
A Virtual Private Server (VPS) is a virtualized server hosted on a physical server. It provides a balance between affordability and performance. Here are some key points to consider when choosing a VPS:
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Cost-Effective: VPS hosting is generally more affordable than dedicated servers, making it an excellent choice for budget-conscious server owners.
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Isolation: Each VPS operates independently, providing isolation from other VPS instances on the same physical server. This isolation ensures that your server’s resources are not affected by other users.
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Scalability: VPS plans often allow you to easily upgrade your server resources as your server’s needs grow, making it a flexible choice.
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Managed or Unmanaged: You can choose between managed and unmanaged VPS hosting. Managed hosting includes technical support and server management, while unmanaged hosting gives you full control but requires more technical expertise.
Dedicated Server
A Dedicated Server is a physical server entirely dedicated to your FiveM server. Here are some considerations for choosing a dedicated server:
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Maximum Performance: Dedicated servers offer the highest level of performance and resources since the entire server is dedicated to your needs.
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Full Control: You have full control over the server, allowing you to customize it to your exact specifications.
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Cost: Dedicated servers are more expensive than VPS hosting, making them suitable for large and resource-intensive FiveM communities.
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Technical Expertise: Managing a dedicated server requires more technical expertise, so it’s essential to have the necessary skills or consider a managed hosting option.
When choosing between a VPS and a dedicated server, consider your budget, server performance requirements, and your level of technical expertise. Each option has its advantages, and the right choice depends on your specific needs.
Recommended Hosters (List)
For the best hosting options for your FiveM server, consider the following recommended providers:
For a detailed comparison of VPS and dedicated hosting, check out our post on VPS vs. Dedicated Servers
Download & Install Server Files
- Create a new directory (for example
D:FXServerserver
), this will be your server folder - Download the last server version of FiveM: artifacts server.
- Extract the files
- Download and extract cfx-server-data to a folder, for example to
D:FXServerserver-data
. - Create a server.cfg file inside the directory:
server-data
(this is an example: example server.cfg). - Generate a new FiveM key from the keymaster: https://keymaster.fivem.net.
- Adjust the key inside the server.cfg:
sv_licenseKey "enteryourlicensehere"
. - Start the server! You’re done.
If you use the pack from above, you don’t have to force all of the steps. It is important that the server has a correct key. If you want the server to be accessible from the outside, activate the ports, otherwise friends cannot join.
Once you’ve set up the server, you can start very fast your new server: Install ESX (everything is done with the pack already). To do this, you set up a database and run the .sql. Then you start ESX and have a base for your server.
FAQ
Step 1: Find and download your FiveM mod
First off, download the resource. You will receive a zip. or .rar file. The file might look like this:
As you can see on the screenshot, there is a folder in the package. This is your script.
Step 2: Drag & drop the folder to your “resources” folder
Open your server directory and double-click the resources folder. As you can see, there are all resources inside:
Drag & drop the script file (the folder above called eclipse_cad in this example) to this folder.
Step 3: Edit your server.cfg
When you’re done, open your server.cfg file and add
start scriptname
to your server.cfg. It should look like this then (example):
And you’re done. Wasn’t that hard, right? If your script requires importing a .SQL file, you also need to do this.
Restart your server
After you’re done, don’t forget to restart your server so your new fivem mods get loaded right away.
Yes, that's basically it. It was'nt that hard to follow the steps, right? Start your server, test around and give yourself admin permissions. You'll find a list of permissions and commands right here.
Your server needs new jobs, scripts or whole mods? You can download and maintain various jobs from the FiveM forum or buy some from our FiveM shop.
Create your GTA5 RP server today. We wish you a lot of fun with the GTA roleplay!
Determining the cost of a FiveM server hinges on factors like computational power and player capacity. Costs range from $5 for basic services to a potential maximum of $500 per month for premium resources. However, the average expenditure typically falls within the $15 to $50 per month bracket. This range offers a balance between performance and affordability for most server administrators. The baseline cost of $5 grants limited performance and player engagement, while the upper range covers comprehensive support and higher player limits. Budgeting wisely involves understanding the trade-offs within this cost spectrum. Ultimately, the cost of a FiveM server is influenced by the specific requirements and preferences of the server operator.
We recommend running at least 6 GB of RAM and a solid 4-core CPU.
We have different tips for you. Read more about it here.