Your Necesse server: installation and configuration on VPS/dedicated

To install and configure your Necesse server on a VPS or dedicated server, you will need Java 17+, a minimum of 2 GB RAM and 1-2 vCPU, as well as a fast SSD/NVMe disk, which will ensure stable gameplay for 4-8 players, with the possibility of scaling up to 32+ with a corresponding increase in resources.

Why do you need your own Necesse server and how is it better than public ones?

Creating your own `necesse dedicated server` provides players and communities with an unprecedented level of control, stability, and personalization of the gameplay experience, which is impossible to achieve on public servers or when using the game's built-in hosting feature. Unlike temporary solutions that depend on the host-player and stop working when they exit, your own server functions around the clock, providing constant access to the Necesse world for all authorized users.

Advantages of self-hosting Necesse

When you decide to deploy `your own Necesse server`, you gain a number of critical advantages:

• 24/7 Availability: The Necesse world is always online, regardless of whether any administrators are playing or not. This allows players to join at any convenient time without waiting for the host to start the game.
• Full World Control: You can configure all world parameters, difficulty, rules, starting resources, and much more to create a unique gaming experience. This includes managing players, bans, whitelists, and administrative commands.
• Modifications: Your own server allows you to install and configure various mods that expand gameplay, add new items, creatures, or mechanics. This opens up wide possibilities for customization and replayability.
• Stability and Performance: When hosted on a reliable VPS or dedicated server, you minimize latency (lag) and disconnections, ensuring smooth gameplay even with a large number of players. Server resources are not shared with other applications on your PC.
• Security and Privacy: You control who can join the server by setting passwords or whitelists. This protects your world from unwanted guests and griefing. You can also configure DDoS protection, which is extremely important for game servers.
• Backup: The ability to regularly back up the world prevents loss of progress in case of unforeseen failures or errors.

These factors make `Necesse hosting` on your own server an ideal solution for close-knit communities, guilds, or groups of friends who want to get the most out of the game.

What are the hardware requirements for a Necesse Dedicated Server?

Choosing the right hardware for a `necesse dedicated server` is a key factor in ensuring stable and comfortable gameplay. Necesse, while not the most demanding game, still requires sufficient resources, especially with an increasing number of players and world size. We will cover the minimum and recommended requirements for CPU, RAM, disk space, and network connection.

Processor (CPU)

CPU performance plays an important role in processing game logic, physics calculations, and managing entities in the world. Necesse uses a single processor thread for its core game logic, so a high clock speed (GHz) per core is important, not just the number of cores.

• For 4-8 players: 1-2 vCPU with a frequency of 2.0+ GHz. Modern Intel Xeon E3/E5 or AMD EPYC/Ryzen processors with good per-core performance will be sufficient.
• For 8-16 players: 2-3 vCPU with a frequency of 2.5+ GHz. Here, it's desirable to have more powerful cores to avoid bottlenecks.
• For 16-32+ players: 4+ vCPU with a frequency of 3.0+ GHz. For large communities, a dedicated server with a high-frequency processor (e.g., Intel Core i7/i9 or Ryzen 7/9) or server processors optimized for single-thread performance will be preferable.

Random Access Memory (RAM)

RAM is used to store world state, player information, loaded chunks, and mod data. The more players, active entities, and complex the world, the more RAM will be required. Necesse requires Java, which also consumes RAM.

• For 4-8 players: Minimum 2 GB RAM. This allows the server to run and support a small world without significant lag.
• For 8-16 players: 4 GB RAM. Recommended for stable operation with a moderate number of players and potential mods.
• For 16-32+ players: 8 GB RAM or more. For large communities and active mod usage, 8 GB RAM is a good starting point, but up to 16 GB may be required for maximum stability.

Disk Space (Disk)

Disk space is used to store server files, world data, and logs. Disk speed (IOPS) is important for fast world loading and progress saving.

• Minimum: 10-20 GB SSD. Necesse game files take up little space (a few hundred MB), but the world can grow. An SSD significantly speeds up world loading and saving.
• Recommended: 50 GB NVMe SSD. NVMe drives provide maximum performance, which is critical for fast read/write operations, especially with frequent saves or when working with large worlds.

Network Connection

A stable and high-speed network connection is necessary to minimize ping and ensure smooth synchronization between the server and players.

• Minimum: 100 Mbps port.
• Recommended: 1 Gbps port. Most modern VPS and dedicated servers offer 1 Gbps ports. More important than bandwidth is channel stability and low latency to players. Choosing a data center located close to your target audience will significantly improve the gaming experience. For example, for players from the US East Coast, a dedicated server in Ashburn, Virginia would be an excellent choice.

Step-by-step installation of Necesse Dedicated Server on Linux VPS/dedicated server

Installing a `necesse dedicated server` on a Linux operating system (e.g., Ubuntu or Debian) is the most common and effective method. The process includes installing Java, SteamCMD, and the Necesse server files themselves.

System Preparation and Java Installation

Before starting, ensure your system is updated and the necessary software is installed. Necesse requires Java 17 or newer.

1. System Update:

   sudo apt update && sudo apt upgrade -y

2. Install Java 17 (OpenJDK):

   sudo apt install openjdk-17-jre-headless -y

   Check Java version:

   java -version

   The output should be similar to this:

   openjdk version "17.0.x" ...

3. Create a user for the server (recommended for security):

   sudo adduser necesse_server
       sudo usermod -aG sudo necesse_server # Optional, for easier management

   Switch to the new user:

   su - necesse_server

   Execute all subsequent commands as this user.

Installing SteamCMD and Downloading Necesse Server Files

SteamCMD is a command-line Steam client that allows you to download dedicated server files.

4. Install SteamCMD:

   sudo apt install steamcmd -y

   If SteamCMD is not available in the standard repositories, follow these steps:

   sudo add-apt-repository multiverse
       sudo dpkg --add-architecture i386
       sudo apt update
       sudo apt install steamcmd -y

5. Create server directory and download files: Create a directory for your Necesse server:

   mkdir ~/necesse_server
       cd ~/necesse_server

   Launch SteamCMD and download the Necesse server files. The App ID for Necesse Dedicated Server is 1169040.

   steamcmd

   In the SteamCMD console, execute:

   login anonymous
       force_install_dir ./
       app_update 1169040 validate
       quit

   This will download all necessary server files to the current directory.

Starting the Necesse Server

Now that all files are downloaded, you can start the server.

6. Create a startup script: Create a file `start_server.sh` in the `necesse_server` directory:

   nano start_server.sh

   Add the following content:

   #!/bin/bash
       java -Xmx2G -Xms1G -jar Server.jar

   Here, `-Xmx2G` sets the maximum RAM for the Java Virtual Machine to 2 GB, and `-Xms1G` sets the initial RAM to 1 GB. Adjust these values according to the available RAM on your VPS.
   Make the script executable:

   chmod +x start_server.sh

7. Start the server:

   ./start_server.sh

   To run the server in the background and keep the session active after disconnecting from SSH, use `screen` or `tmux`.

   sudo apt install screen -y # If not installed
       screen -S necesse_server_session
       ./start_server.sh

   To detach from the `screen` session, press `Ctrl+A`, then `D`. To reattach to the session: `screen -r necesse_server_session`.

After the first launch, the server will generate configuration files and a default world.

Necesse Server Configuration: Ports, World Settings, Administration

After successfully installing your `necesse dedicated server`, the next step is to configure it correctly. This includes changing world parameters, managing ports, setting passwords, and assigning administrators.

Main Configuration Files

All Necesse server settings are stored in the `server` directory within the server folder. The main files you will work with are:

• server.json: The main server configuration file, where primary parameters such as server name, maximum players, port, password, world settings, and more are defined.
• worlds/: The directory containing data for all worlds. Inside it, each world will have its own folder with files like `world.dat`, `leveldata.dat`, and others.
• admins.txt: A list of SteamID64s of users who will have administrative rights on the server.
• banned.txt: A list of SteamID64s of banned players.
• whitelist.txt: A list of SteamID64s of players allowed to join the server if whitelist mode is enabled.

Configuring server.json

When the Necesse server is first launched, it generates a `server.json` file with default settings. Open it for editing:

nano ~/necesse_server/server/server.json

Example `server.json` content (with comments):

{
  "serverName": "My Necesse Server by Valebyte", // Server name, displayed in the list
  "serverPort": 14100, // Server port. Default is 14100. Make sure it's open in the firewall.
  "serverPassword": "", // Password to join the server. Leave empty for a public server.
  "maxPlayers": 8, // Maximum number of players. Increase cautiously, based on resources.
  "worldName": "valebyte_world", // Name of the world to be loaded. If it doesn't exist, a new one will be created.
  "worldSeed": "", // Optional, seed for world generation. Leave empty for a random one.
  "worldSize": "normal", // World size: "small", "normal", "large". Affects performance and disk space.
  "difficulty": "normal", // World difficulty: "casual", "normal", "hard", "hardcore".
  "pvp": false, // Enable PvP (player versus player)
  "saveInterval": 300, // World auto-save interval in seconds (300 seconds = 5 minutes)
  "autoPause": true, // Pause server if no players are online (saves resources)
  "whitelistEnabled": false, // Enable whitelist. If true, only players from whitelist.txt can join.
  "adminCommandsEnabled": true, // Allow use of admin commands
  "debug": false, // Enable debug mode (for developers)
  "motd": "Welcome to the Necesse server by Valebyte!", // Message of the day
  "isLAN": false // Server is only accessible on the local network
}

After making changes, save the file (`Ctrl+O`, `Enter`, `Ctrl+X`) and restart the server for them to take effect.

Configuring Ports and Firewall

By default, Necesse uses port 14100 UDP/TCP. You need to open this port in your VPS/dedicated server's firewall and possibly on your network equipment (if it's your home server).

1. Opening the port in UFW (for Ubuntu/Debian):

   sudo ufw allow 14100/tcp
       sudo ufw allow 14100/udp
       sudo ufw enable # If firewall is not enabled
       sudo ufw status

2. Checking open ports: You can use the `netstat` or `ss` command to check if the server is listening on the port:

   sudo netstat -tulnp | grep 14100
       # or
       sudo ss -tulnp | grep 14100

   You can also check port accessibility from outside using online services such as `canyouseeme.org`.

Managing Administrators and Players

You will need administrative rights to manage the server.

1. Adding administrators: Find your SteamID64 (e.g., via steamid.io). Open the `admins.txt` file:

   nano ~/necesse_server/server/admins.txt

   Add each SteamID64 on a new line. For example:

   76561198000000001
       76561198000000002

   Save the file and restart the server.
2. Whitelist and bans: Similarly, to enable the whitelist, set `"whitelistEnabled": true` in `server.json` and add the SteamID64s of allowed players to `whitelist.txt`. To ban players, add their SteamID64s to `banned.txt`.

Proper configuration of these parameters will ensure control over your Necesse world and allow you to create a unique gaming experience. If you are looking for a server for other games, you might be interested in your own Palworld server or Valheim, the installation of which is also detailed in our blog.

Necesse Modifications: How to Install and Manage Mods

One of the key reasons for creating `your own Necesse server` is the ability to install and manage mods. Modifications significantly expand gameplay, adding new items, mechanics, creatures, and worlds. Necesse has built-in mod support through the Steam Workshop, which simplifies their installation for both the client and the server.

Principles of Mod Operation in Necesse

Mods in Necesse are divided into client-side and server-side:

• Client-side mods: Affect only the visual aspect or player interface and do not require server installation. For example, mods that change textures or the HUD.
• Server-side mods: Change game logic, add new items, recipes, creatures, or mechanics. These mods must be installed on both the server and each player's client to ensure compatibility. If a mod is installed only on the server and not on the player's client, they will not be able to connect or will encounter errors.

Installing Mods on a Necesse Dedicated Server

The process of installing mods on a `necesse dedicated server` is relatively simple, thanks to built-in support.

1. Downloading Mods: Necesse mods are typically distributed via the Steam Workshop. For the server, you will need to download the mod files manually. This can be done through various online services that allow downloading files from the Steam Workshop by their ID.
   Each mod has its unique ID in the Steam Workshop. For example, a mod URL looks like `https://steamcommunity.com/sharedfiles/filedetails/?id=XXXXXXXXXX`, where `XXXXXXXXXX` is the mod ID.
   Download the mod file (usually a `.jar` file) to your local computer.
2. Placing Mod Files on the Server: On the Necesse server, create a `mods` directory in the server's root folder (next to `Server.jar`).

   mkdir ~/necesse_server/mods

   Then, upload the downloaded `.jar` mod files to this directory using an SFTP client (e.g., WinSCP or FileZilla). For example, if you downloaded `MyAwesomeMod.jar`, it should be located at `~/necesse_server/mods/MyAwesomeMod.jar`.
3. Activating Mods: Mods placed in the `mods` directory will be automatically loaded by the server when it starts. If you added mods to a running server, you need to restart it for them to activate.
4. Client Mod Installation: All players who want to connect to your modified server, must install the same mods on their game clients. This is usually done by subscribing to mods in the Steam Workshop. When the game launches, the client will automatically download and activate the subscribed mods.

Mod Management and Troubleshooting

• Compatibility: Ensure that all installed mods are compatible with each other and with the current version of Necesse. Incompatible mods can cause server or client crashes.
• Load Order: In some games, the load order of mods matters. Necesse typically processes mods in alphabetical order or the order in which they were added. If conflicts arise, try renaming mod files to change the load order.
• Mod Updates: Regularly check for updates for your mods. Updated mods may require a server restart.
• Troubleshooting: If the server fails to start or crashes after installing mods, check the server logs (`server.log` file in the `server` directory). Mod-related errors usually indicate a conflict or incompatibility. Try disabling mods one by one to find the problematic one.

Modifications make Necesse even more engaging and diverse. The ability to have full control over this aspect is a strong argument in favor of `Necesse hosting` on your own VPS or dedicated server.

Ensuring Security and Performance: DDoS Protection and Optimization

Maintaining the security and high performance of a `necesse dedicated server` is not just about stable gameplay, but also about protecting your resources from external threats. Game servers are often targets for DDoS attacks, and unoptimized settings can lead to "lag" and disconnections.

DDoS Attack Protection

DDoS (Distributed Denial of Service) attacks aim to overload a server or its network channel, making it unavailable to legitimate players.

1. Provider-level protection: This is the most effective method of protection. A reliable hosting provider, such as Valebyte, offers built-in DDoS protection at the network level. This means that traffic is filtered before it reaches your VPS or dedicated server, blocking malicious packets. When choosing `Necesse hosting`, always inquire about the availability and level of DDoS protection.
2. Firewall configuration (UFW/Firewalld): On your server, you need to configure the firewall to allow only necessary traffic. For Necesse, this is port 14100 UDP/TCP. Close all other ports that are not in use.

   sudo ufw default deny incoming
       sudo ufw default allow outgoing
       sudo ufw allow ssh # Essential for server access
       sudo ufw allow 14100/tcp
       sudo ufw allow 14100/udp
       sudo ufw enable

   This will reduce the attack surface and help filter out some unwanted traffic.
3. Using a proxy server (optional): For very large servers or those constantly facing attacks, consider using specialized gaming proxy services that provide additional filtering and mask the server's real IP address.

Necesse Server Performance Optimization

Even with powerful hardware, incorrect settings can lead to performance degradation.

1. Java Virtual Machine (JVM) Parameters: As mentioned earlier, the `-Xmx` and `-Xms` parameters in the Java startup script play a key role.
   • `-Xmx`: The maximum amount of memory the JVM can use. Set it slightly less than the server's total RAM to leave room for the operating system.
   • `-Xms`: The initial amount of memory allocated by the JVM. Set it equal to `-Xmx` to prevent dynamic heap resizing, which can cause momentary delays.
   Example: `java -Xmx4G -Xms4G -jar Server.jar` for a server with 4 GB RAM.
2. server.json Settings:
   • "maxPlayers": Decreasing this value will reduce server load. Gradually increase it while monitoring performance.
   • "worldSize": Larger worlds require more resources (RAM, CPU, Disk I/O). Start with "normal" or "small".
   • "saveInterval": Less frequent saves (increasing the value) can reduce peak disk loads but increase the risk of progress loss in case of a crash.
   • "autoPause": true: If the server is inactive, it enters a paused state, saving resources. This is useful for servers with low activity.
3. Resource Monitoring: Regularly monitor CPU, RAM, and disk I/O usage on your server using utilities like `htop`, `top`, `free -h`, `iotop`. This will help identify bottlenecks and take steps to address them.

   sudo apt install htop -y # If not installed
       htop

4. Operating System Optimization: Ensure that no unnecessary background processes consuming resources are running on the server. Use minimalist Linux distributions (e.g., Ubuntu Server without a graphical interface).

By implementing these measures, you can ensure stable, secure, and high-performance operation of your `own Necesse server`, allowing players to enjoy uninterrupted gameplay.

Choosing Necesse Hosting: Which VPS or Dedicated Server to Choose?

The choice between a VPS (Virtual Private Server) and a dedicated server for `Necesse hosting` depends on your needs, budget, and expected number of players. Both options offer full control but have significant differences in performance, scalability, and cost.

VPS (Virtual Private Server) for Necesse

A VPS is a virtual machine that runs on a physical server alongside other VPSs. Each VPS has guaranteed resources (CPU, RAM, disk), but they are virtualized.

Advantages of VPS:

• Affordability: Significantly cheaper than a dedicated server. The cost of a VPS with 2-4 GB RAM and 2-4 vCPU starts from $10-20 per month.
• Flexibility: Easily scale resources (CPU, RAM, disk) up or down as needs change.
• Management: Most hosting providers offer convenient control panels for VPS, simplifying reboots, OS reinstallation, and monitoring.

Disadvantages of VPS:

• "Neighbor Effect": Although resources are guaranteed, the overall performance of the physical server can affect your VPS, especially during peak loads from "neighbors."
• CPU Performance: Virtualized cores can be less performant than physical ones, especially for single-threaded tasks, to which Necesse is sensitive.

When to choose a VPS:

• For servers with a small to medium number of players (up to 16-20).
• For testing mods or private games with friends.
• If the budget is limited but full control is needed.

Example of a good VPS for Necesse for 8-16 players: 4 GB RAM, 2-3 vCPU (with good frequency), 50 GB NVMe SSD.

Dedicated Server for Necesse

A dedicated server is a physical server that you rent entirely. All its resources are available only for your tasks.

Advantages of a Dedicated Server:

• Maximum Performance: You get access to all physical CPU cores, the full amount of RAM, and high-speed disk subsystem without virtualization. This is critical for large and demanding servers.
• Stability: The absence of the "neighbor effect" ensures predictable and stable performance.
• Full Control: You can install any operating system, configure BIOS, and use specialized hardware (e.g., RAID controllers).

Disadvantages of a Dedicated Server:

• Cost: Significantly more expensive than a VPS. Basic configurations start from $60-80 per month and can reach hundreds of dollars.
• Management: Requires more knowledge and experience in system administration, as you are responsible for all aspects of server operation.

When to choose a dedicated server:

• For large communities and public servers with 16+ players and active mod usage.
• When maximum performance and minimal latency are required.
• For professional gaming projects where stability and reliability are critically important.

For example, for `your own Necesse server` for 32+ players, a dedicated server with an Intel Core i7/i9 or AMD Ryzen 7/9, 16-32 GB RAM, NVMe SSD, and a 1 Gbps port would be an ideal choice. When choosing such a server, you might also consider its geographical location. For instance, a dedicated server in Los Angeles would provide excellent ping for players from Asia and the US West Coast.

Selection Recommendations

1. Start with a VPS: If you are unsure about the number of players, start with a moderate VPS. You can always upgrade to a more powerful VPS or switch to a dedicated server if your `Necesse hosting` becomes popular.
2. Research the provider: Pay attention to the provider's reputation, support quality, availability of DDoS protection, and data center locations.
3. Monitoring: After launching the server, carefully monitor resource usage. This will help you understand if the current configuration is sufficient or if an upgrade is needed.

For other popular games, such as ARK: Survival Ascended or 7 Days to Die, hosting requirements can be significantly higher due to their resource intensity, making the choice of a dedicated server even more relevant.

Conclusion

Creating your own Necesse server on a VPS or dedicated server provides maximum control, stability, and customization possibilities for any community. For optimal performance of a Necesse server for 8-16 players, a VPS with 4-8 GB RAM, 2-4 vCPU with a high clock speed, and a fast NVMe SSD is recommended, while for large communities of 16 players or more, a dedicated server with 16+ GB RAM and a powerful processor is advised. Don't forget about reliable DDoS protection and regular resource monitoring to ensure uninterrupted operation.