What’s a Dedicated Server for Gaming?

A dedicated server is an alternative hosting option that offers a much more stable and enjoyable gaming experience.

This article is an introduction to dedicated servers for gaming. Read on to learn how these servers work and how they enable players to customize and control their gaming environments.

What Is a Dedicated Server for Gaming?

A dedicated gaming server is a computer that hosts a video game for a client. This type of server enables a reliable, stable, and fast connection to your favorite online games.

Dedicated game servers offer more processing, memory, and storage capabilities than other hosting solutions. Regardless of what game you play, the server always has enough resources to run the game fluidly.

A dedicated server is ideal for all popular online games with high workloads, including:

• Minecraft
• 7 Days to Die
• Valheim
• Counter Strike Global Offensive
• Ark
• Rust
• DOTA 2
• Killing Floor
• Arma
• Ragnarok
• Terraria
• Factorio

A dedicated server is a popular option among companies wishing to create a stable online environment for their players. A server can run both single and multiplayer games. A server can run both single and multiplayer games.

Why Are Dedicated Servers Better for Gaming?

Every multiplayer online game has a host and clients:

Host:

• A server that transmits data to all the players and keeps the game in sync.Clients:
• Players participating in the game without hosting responsibilities.In most online matches, the host is either the player who started the game or the one with the least latency. The host-player runs the local version of a game on a computer or console, and also maintains the sync between all clients. The host handles:
• Every player’s location in the game.
• The activity of all the players.
• Player interactions.
• Each character’s loadout.
• What direction all players are facing.
• The physics happening around each player.
• Score and rules.

The host machine requires more memory, bandwidth, and processing power the more players log in and play the game. The game will be affected by lag and bugs if the host player’s computer is weak or has a poor internet connection. All players connect to the server, which has significantly more computing power than a PC or console. The admin can:

• Configure a server for fluid gameplay. (Choose an operating system, install scripts, setup tools, optimize game configuration etc.) )
• Control how many players can join the game to prevent players from chewing up processing time or memory.
• Customize the game rules (number of rounds, maps, allowed weapons, equipment rules, win conditions, character stats, etc. The local host’s low-latency advantage over other players is also eliminated by dedicated hosting. How do dedicated gaming servers work?
• A gaming server dedicated to hosting all gaming functions. The server keeps the game in sync for players, managing the following aspects of a game:
• Player locations.
• Player activity.
• Game rules and score.
• Physics.
• Loadouts (weapons and equipment).
• The dedicated server does not run the game engine, though. Since the device doesn’t render anything, a GPU is not required. The server is equipped with high-end CPUs and RAM and instructs the client machine on how and when to render. The client device is responsible for:
• Graphics.
• Game controls.
• Sound.

The result of such a setup is an efficient platform for gaming. Games that run on dedicated servers don’t experience glitches, lag or crashes. You don’t have to worry about the hardware, security, or monitoring when your dedicated server is in a data center. You also get much higher bandwidth, ensuring faster, more responsive gameplay.

• Advantages of Dedicated Gaming Servers
• Dedicated servers for gaming come with several benefits other hosting options can not offer.
• Excellent, Lag-Free Performance

A dedicated gaming server has top-tier hardware and internet connections. The gameplay is never laggy, so expect a smooth gaming experience.

Reliable Infrastructure

Dedicated machines have 24/7 server monitoring, so the game is always available. Even if the local grid goes down, most data centers have a backup generator that ensures the game’s availability.

You also do not have to worry about overheating when using a dedicated gaming server. No matter how much action the game sees, data centers have constant cooling systems that ensure the infrastructure can handle the workload.

High Levels of Customization

The admin defines the hardware required to run the game. You can choose the ideal processor and amount of RAM, plus set bandwidth speeds for an optimal gaming experience.

The admin is also free to define the game rules. Server owners have more freedom than typical game hosts, including the ability to edit maps and objectives as well as character traits and stats. You can make the server public or private, and even create a virtual arena for gaming teams. The admin can also kick players out of the game for high ping or rule violation.

Ability to Handle High Traffic Demand

Dozens of players can play a game on a dedicated server without impacting performance. The admin is free to set a max cap on the number of players to prevent the game from getting crowded.

No Corrupt Save Files

Dedicated servers are less prone to corrupt save files than typical gaming servers. It is important to have a reliable save system for prolonged multiplayer matches. A reliable save system is crucial for prolonged multiplayer matches.

High Levels of Security

Dedicated servers are very secure because:

The admin defines who can log into the device, so intruders cannot pose as a random player and gain access.

A gaming server runs video games and nothing else. The server does not have any applications or emails in the background, so the attack surface is minimal.

Hosting providers invest heavily in cybersecurity.

Disadvantages of Dedicated Gaming Servers

Here are the downsides of setting up a gaming server at your home:

Complex setup:

• Setting up a dedicated gaming server requires strong technical skills. The process is complicated and time-consuming, plus you must follow cybersecurity best practices.
• Regular maintenance:

Like any server, a dedicated gaming server requires regular maintenance. Setup of a dedicated gaming servers requires expensive hardware. Also, expect high electricity bills, especially if you plan to make the server available to the public. If you decide to set up a dedicated server with a service provider, though, the only drawback is that you will have to pay a monthly fee.

How to Choose a Dedicated Gaming Server Provider?

• There are several factors to consider when choosing a provider for your dedicated gaming server.Game Compatibility
• Some video games are more demanding than others. Choose a package that is powerful enough to run your game smoothly and without glitches. Scalable resources are also useful when hosting games with a varying number of players. Scalable resources are also useful when hosting games with a varying number of players.Learn about FlexServers, the world’s only server that allows users to scale vertically with a single reboot.
• Hardware QualityYour provider should offer SSDs and top processors to enable a smooth gaming experience. Look for tier-1 network service providers with top-of-the-line hardware.

Uptime Guarantees

A gaming server must be reliable. The service provider should provide an uptime guarantee to ensure that you won’t experience any game crashes or extended downtime. Simple UI and controls

A service provider should make your admin job easier. You should look for hosting companies that offer different control panels so you can manage the hardware and game. Also, consider how quickly you need the server up and running and if the provider can meet your time frame.

Hosting Cost

Different providers charge different prices for hosting services. Compare prices between providers and pick a service that offers the most computing power for your budget.

Security Levels

High levels of security are critical if you plan to collect personal information or payment details from other players.

An Optimal Online Gaming Experience

A dedicated gaming server is the most stable and enjoyable way to play multiplayer games. Create the ideal environment for playing your favorite online game by setting up a dedicated gaming server. Our dedicated server packages provide a variety of options for customizing your gaming experience.