Host a 7 Days to Die Server Without Port Forwarding

Updated 7 November 2026 · Standard formula, shown below

This guide shows you how to host a 7 Days to Die dedicated server for you and your friends without touching your router’s port forwarding settings. You’ll use a free VPN tool (ZeroTier or Radmin VPN) to create a virtual LAN, making your server appear as a local network machine to everyone connected. This works even if you’re behind a strict NAT, a double NAT, or a CGNAT, and it bypasses the need to expose your home IP address.

What You’ll Need

A PC that can run the 7 Days to Die dedicated server (the same machine you play on works, but a separate one is better).
The game itself (Steam copy) on the host machine.
At least 4 GB of free RAM for the server, plus whatever the OS and other apps need.
Stable internet connection with decent upload speed (5 Mbps or higher recommended for a few players).
One of these free VPN tools: ZeroTier or Radmin VPN. Both are free for personal use.
All players (including you) must install the same VPN tool.

Step-by-Step

Install the VPN tool on the host machine. Go to the official website of ZeroTier or Radmin VPN, download the installer, and run it. Follow the default installation steps. For ZeroTier, you’ll need to create an account (free) and get a Network ID later.
Create a virtual network.
- If using ZeroTier: Sign in to My ZeroTier, click “Create A Network,” and note the 16-character Network ID. Leave the network as “Private” for now.
- If using Radmin VPN: Open the app, click “Create Network,” give it a name and password, and note the network name.
Join the virtual network on the host. Open the VPN app on the host. For ZeroTier, click “Join New Network” and paste the Network ID. For Radmin, click “Join Network” and enter the network name and password.
Install the 7 Days to Die dedicated server. In Steam, go to Library, switch the filter from “Games” to “Tools,” find “7 Days to Die Dedicated Server,” and install it. It’s a separate download from the game itself.
Configure the server files. Navigate to the server folder (usually steamapps/common/7 Days To Die Dedicated Server). Open serverconfig.xml with a text editor (Notepad++ or VS Code recommended). Set the following values:
- ServerName – a name your friends will see.
- ServerPassword – set a password if you want to restrict access.
- ServerMaxPlayerCount – e.g., 8.
- GameMode – SurvivalMultiplayer (default).
- ServerPort – leave as 26900 (default).
- ServerIsPublic – set to false to avoid showing in the public list.
- TelnetPort – leave as 8080 (default) if you don’t need remote console.
Start the server. Run startdedicated.bat (Windows) or the appropriate shell script for your OS. A console window will open, showing the server loading. Wait until you see “GameServer.Started” or a similar message. Keep this window open.
Find the host’s virtual IP address. On the host, open a command prompt and type ipconfig. Look for the adapter named “ZeroTier One” or “Radmin VPN” – note the IPv4 address (e.g., 192.168.196.23). This is the address your friends will use to connect.
Have friends install and join the same VPN network. Each friend installs the same VPN tool, then joins your network using the Network ID (ZeroTier) or the network name/password (Radmin). They should also run ipconfig to see their own virtual IP – they don’t need to do anything else, just be on the network.
Connect to the server. In 7 Days to Die, click “Join Game,” then select the “LAN” tab. The server should appear in the list. If it doesn’t, click “Connect to IP” and enter the host’s virtual IP address (e.g., 192.168.196.23). The default port is 26900, but you usually don’t need to specify it.
Test the connection. Have one friend join first to confirm it works. If they can see your server and join without issues, you’re done.

Common Mistakes

Using the wrong IP address. Players must use the host’s virtual IP (from the VPN adapter), not the regular LAN IP or public IP.
Not installing the dedicated server tool. Many people try to host from the game client’s “Host” option, which also works but is less stable and limits the world to when you’re playing. The dedicated server is a separate download.
Firewall blocking the server. Windows Firewall may block the server on the host. When you first run the server, allow access for both private and public networks. If you already blocked it, go to Windows Defender Firewall > Allow an app through the firewall and add the server executable.
VPN not running on the host. The host must have the VPN client running and be connected to the network before starting the server. If you start the server first, it may bind to the wrong network interface.
Server not fully loaded. The server takes a few minutes to generate the world. Players may see “Connection Timeout” if they try too early. Wait for the console to show “GameServer.Started” before inviting others.

Tips

Use a static virtual IP. In ZeroTier, you can assign a static IP to the host’s machine from the network settings page. This prevents the IP from changing between reboots, so friends can use the same address every time.
Keep the server console open. You can see player joins, errors, and save messages. It also helps with troubleshooting.
Set a password. Even on a private VPN, a password adds a layer of security and prevents accidental joins.
Use a wired connection. A stable ethernet connection on the host reduces lag and disconnects.
Allocate more RAM. In the server’s startdedicated.bat, you can add -memory 4096 (or more) to give the server more RAM. This helps with larger worlds and more players.
Schedule restarts. The server can run for days, but memory leaks can cause lag. Restart it daily or every few days to keep it fresh.

Troubleshooting

Players can’t see the server in the LAN list. This is common. Have them click “Connect to IP” and enter the host’s virtual IP (e.g., 192.168.196.23). If that fails, check that the host’s VPN is running and that the server is fully started.

Connection timeout or “Failed to connect.” First, verify that the host and player are on the same VPN network (they can ping each other). On the host, open Command Prompt and type ping <player's virtual IP>. If ping fails, the VPN isn’t set up correctly – re-check the network ID or name/password. If ping works, check the server console for errors. Also, make sure the server is listening on the VPN interface – you can check with netstat -an | findstr 26900 on the host; you should see a line with the virtual IP.

Server starts but crashes. Check the console for error messages. Common causes: missing write permissions to the save folder, or insufficient RAM. Run the server as administrator, and try lowering the world size or player count.

Players can join but get kicked after a few seconds. This often indicates a mod mismatch or version mismatch. Ensure everyone has the same game version and that you’re not running mods that require everyone to have them installed.

VPN tool disconnects frequently. Some VPN tools have issues with certain routers. Try switching to the other tool (ZeroTier vs Radmin) to see if it’s more stable. Also, make sure the VPN software is allowed through Windows Firewall.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do all players need to install the VPN tool?

Yes, every player who wants to join must install the same VPN tool and be on the same virtual network. This is what makes the server appear as a LAN game.

Is this method free?

Yes, both ZeroTier and Radmin VPN offer free tiers for personal use. The server itself is free to run if you already own the game.

Can I use this method with a public server?

No, this method is for private games with friends. If you want a public server, you’ll need port forwarding or a paid hosting service.

Will this work if I have a dynamic IP address?

Yes, because you’re connecting via the virtual IP, which is independent of your public IP. The VPN tool handles the connection, so your public IP changing doesn’t affect players.

Can I run the server on the same PC I play on?

Yes, but it will use extra RAM and CPU. For a smooth experience, especially with more than 2-3 players, a separate machine is recommended.

What if my friends are on a different continent?

It will work, but latency will be higher. The VPN tool routes traffic through its servers, which may add some overhead. For cross-region play, a dedicated hosting service might be better.

Method: the standard formula for this calculation, rounded as each result states. See how the calculators work or report an error.