How to make a server
Overview
What is a server?
A server is a portal that allows other online players to play the game.
There are 3 types of servers to choose from:
Listen Server
A listen server is created by you through the game.
Dedicated Servers
A dedicated server is a server run by you on your own computer.
Hosted Server
A hosted server is a server run by a 3rd party gaming company.
Getting Started
What programs do I need?
Before you even start the server install you really need to have several programs which are necessary tools that will enable you to configure/update and manage your server.
Listed below are the programs that are recommended you have installed and are somewhat familiar with before you start putting together your server.
FTP - File Transfer Protocol Program
In order to upload your server’s files from your computer to the remote server that runs your ff server and vise versa you must have an FTP or File Transfer Protocol Program. Many hosting companies offer file access through your browser and it is useful for a quick update if you are not on your primary computer. However, an actual FTP client is much more stable and faster to use.
There are lots of free FTP programs available on the Internet but almost all of them have limitations, nag screens or are supported by ads. We recommend the following FTP clients which are widely used, fully functional and completely free:
Compression Utility Program
In order to conserve hard drive space, extract compressed files (of various formats) and to create .bz2 files if you utilize the fast download feature for your web site you need to have a compression utility program.
There are lost of free compression utility programs available on the Internet but almost all of them have limitations, nag screens or are supported by ads. We recommend using the following compression utility program which is widely used, fully functional and completely free:
Server Management Program
In order to manage your server, test configuration variables and check on it’s status one must have a server management program.
There are lost of free server management programs available on the Internet but a lot of them have limitations, nag screens, are supported by ads . We recommend using the following server management utility which is widely used, fully functional and completely free:
Note(s):
A) Download and use the “Official Download” for the most stable version.
B) You do not need to utilize the built steam log in part of HLSW to effectively manage your server. It is only required if you want to be able to log into it and utilize Steam functions like chat. Just click on “Offline Mode” to manage you server.
Installing the Mod
Most game server companies are willing to DL and install mods for you so give them the the Link for the Downloads Section And ask them to DL and install the latest release.
If they are not willing to do this you will need to use one of the FTP Programs above and extract the Latest Version of Fortress Forever to your Half Life 2 Based Server.
Note:
A) You must be running a Half Life 2 Based server for Fortress Forever to run.
B) You may need to create a new FortressForever file in your server's core files. You will need to consult your server company for suggestions on how to do this.
Customizing Your Server
Once you have your server set up, you will probably want to customize your server by doing things like:
Customizing Your Message of the Day - MOTD
Installing MetaMod:Source
Metamod:Source is an advanced plugin system for Half-Life 2. Plugins for Metamod:Source are written in C++ (not to be confused with "SourceMod"). It is similar to Valve's plugin layer, but much more advanced. It is coupled with SourceHook, an expansive API layer for intercepting and hooking individual virtual functions. Metamod:Source greatly simplifies otherwise hacky tasks and provides safe ways for multiple plugins to hook the same object.
It is recommended that you never download a beta version of anything if you are planning on using your server for public games. Most companies will have a released version and a beta version. Generally you are going to have problems if you download / upload a beta version. So again, you may want to download / upload the latest released version. This will make your install a lot easier, especially if you are not familar with your server files. You will also need to know what operating system (OS) you have for your server. Windows, or Linux 32 or 64 bit for the installer to install the proper files. For more details on how to install MetaMod:Source you might want to read through the MetaMod:Source Web-Site
