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Gaming
What is a game server?
Ever wondered how multiplayer games let you and your friends battle, build, or explore together in real time? Behind every smooth gaming session is a powerful but often overlooked piece of technology—the game server.
Whether you’re diving into massive online worlds or hosting a private match, understanding what’s running the show can level up your gaming experience. Let’s break it down in simple terms and explore what a game server actually is and why it matters.
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What is a game server?
A game server is a private, virtual environment that hosts multiplayer online games, enabling players from various locations to connect and play together in real-time. The server handles tasks such as game logic, player interactions, and data storage to provide a seamless gaming experience.
Unlike regular servers that host websites, applications, or databases, game servers are specifically optimized for the demands of gaming. They require low latency and high bandwidth to accommodate multiple players simultaneously without lag. Reliable game servers let players enjoy a stable and engaging gaming experience, free from interruptions and technical issues.
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How game servers work
Game servers operate on a client-server architecture, which establishes a clear division between the game client and the server. In this setup, the game client is installed on a player’s device and is responsible for rendering graphics, handling user inputs, and providing an immersive experience. The game server, on the other hand, manages the game environment, processes player actions, and ensures that all participants are kept in sync.
Communication between the client and server is facilitated through various communication protocols. The most common protocols used in gaming include Transmission Control Protocol (TCP) and User Datagram Protocol (UDP).
- TCP is reliable but slower, making it suitable for games where data accuracy is crucial, such as turn-based games.
- UDP is faster and more efficient for real-time games, as it allows for rapid data transmission with less overhead, prioritizing speed over reliability.
Types of game servers
When it comes to hosting online games, understanding the different types of game servers is crucial for ensuring optimal performance and player experience. Here are some common types:
- Public shared servers are the most accessible option, allowing multiple players to connect and play together. These servers are often free, but they can suffer from lag and downtime due to the high number of users sharing the same resources.
- Virtual private servers (VPS) offer a more reliable solution, providing dedicated resources within a shared environment. VPS game servers grant users greater control and flexibility, making them suitable for moderate to large gaming communities that require stability and performance without the costs associated with dedicated servers.
- Dedicated game servers are a premium option that provide exclusive access to all of a server’s resources—ensuring optimal performance, low latency, and customizability. This is ideal for serious gamers or gaming companies that need high performance and reliability.
- Listen servers are often used in peer-to-peer gaming setups, where one player’s machine acts as the server. While this setup can be convenient for small groups, it may lead to performance issues as the host’s hardware is required to handle both server and client functions.
- Peer-to-peer (P2P) networks enable players to connect directly with each other, reducing reliance on a central server. While this can enhance speed and reduce costs, it may also introduce challenges in terms of security and connection stability.
Understanding these server types can help you choose the best option for your gaming needs, ensuring a seamless and enjoyable gaming experience.
Why do we need a game server?
Game servers play a crucial role in the online gaming experience.
One of the primary benefits of a game server is enhanced performance. Hosting games on a dedicated server reduces latency and improves response times, which are vital for real-time interactions in competitive gaming.
Another significant advantage is improved reliability. Game servers offer consistent uptime and stability, ensuring that players can enjoy uninterrupted gaming sessions. This is especially important during peak hours when many players are online simultaneously, as shared resources can lead to lag and disconnection issues.
Furthermore, game servers provide a secure environment for players, safeguarding personal information and reducing the risk of cheating or hacking. With dedicated game servers, developers can implement custom security measures and maintain a fair playing field for all participants.
Additionally, game servers facilitate a stronger sense of community among players. They allow for the creation of dedicated game worlds and environments where players can engage with one another, form teams, and build friendships. This enhances the overall gaming experience, making it more enjoyable and immersive.
What hardware does a game server need?
When setting up a game server, the choice of hardware is crucial for ensuring optimal performance and a smooth gaming experience.
- CPU: At the core of a game server is the CPU, which processes game logic and manages player interactions. A multi-core processor is recommended to handle multiple players efficiently, especially for resource-intensive games.
- RAM: Next, RAM is essential for temporary data storage. A minimum of 8GB is often suggested, but larger games or those with more players may require 16GB or more to prevent lag and ensure quick data access.
- Storage: Storage is another critical component. Solid State Drives (SSDs) are preferred over traditional Hard Disk Drives (HDDs) due to their faster read and write speeds, which significantly reduce load times for players. Depending on the game and the number of users, anywhere from 250GB to 1TB of storage may be necessary.
- NICs: Network interface cards (NICs) play a vital role in ensuring a stable and fast internet connection. A dedicated NIC with a minimum speed of 1 Gbps is recommended to support smooth data transmission, especially for multiplayer games.
Lastly, a reliable power supply and cooling system are essential to prevent hardware failure during intensive gaming sessions. Investing in high-quality components will ensure your game server runs efficiently and can handle the demands of its players.
How to rent a dedicated game server
Good hardware is expensive, but renting a game server from a hosting provider can help you get access to great hardware for a lower entry fee.
- Determine the type of game server you need based on the game you want to host. Popular options include dedicated servers for high-performance games or virtual private servers (VPS) for more moderate requirements. Understanding the specific requirements of your game will help you make an informed decision.
- Research game server providers. Look for a reputable company that offers robust hosting solutions tailored for gamers. Check customer reviews, uptime guarantees, and the range of server configurations available to ensure you choose a reliable provider.
- Once you’ve selected a provider, navigate to the type of server you want (VPS or dedicated) and choose your desired configuration. You may need to select options such as server location, hardware specifications, and the operating system. Some providers offer pre-configured setups for popular games, making the process even easier.
- After selecting your configuration, create an account with the provider. This step typically involves entering your payment information and agreeing to the terms of service. Be sure to review any additional features or add-ons available, such as DDoS protection or automated backups, to enhance your server’s security and reliability.
- Complete your order and set up your server. Most providers will send you an email with login details and instructions on how to access your server. Once you’ve logged in, you can begin configuring your game server according to your preferences and start inviting friends to join your gaming adventures.
Getting started with your own game server
Starting your own game server can be an exciting venture, whether you’re looking to host a private game for friends or create a public server for a larger community. The first step is to choose the right game server hosting solution. Look for a provider that offers reliable performance, minimal latency, and robust support.
When you’re ready to get started, Liquid Web can help. We offer the fastest, most reliable servers in the industry—including both VPS and dedicated server options. Click through below to explore your options or start a chat with one of our hosting experts right now to get details and answers.
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Whether you want a private server for you and a few friends or an entire dedicated server to host your own environment, Liquid Web has what you need. These aren’t entry-level servers for new players, but business-grade hardware and services for real enthusiasts. →
Additional resources
Minecraft VPS: How to create a server for your game →
Step-by-step instructions and VPS config recommendations
How to build a gaming server at home →
Not ready to rent a server? Here’s how to DIY it at home.
Guide to dedicated game server rental →
Need more details about renting a dedicated server for gaming? It’s all here.
Mike Zyvoloski is Director of Affiliate Marketing at Liquid Web, where he puts more than a decade of marketing experience to work for multiple brands. When he’s not helping people find the best server solution, he’s managing his own for POE, ARK, Palworld, and Enshrouded. He can also be found in the sky (as a private pilot), on his motorcycle, or hanging out with his two large puppies. LinkedIn
