Server Setup Guide for [Rocket League (private matches)] Gamers

Game Server Requirements

Establishing a dedicated server for Rocket League private matches, while not strictly necessary for basic peer-to-peer connections, offers a significantly enhanced and more stable gaming experience, particularly for competitive play or larger groups. The foundational requirements for such a server are multifaceted, encompassing hardware specifications, network infrastructure, and software considerations. Understanding these elements is crucial for selecting an appropriate hosting solution or configuring a personal server.

At the core, the server's Central Processing Unit (CPU) plays a pivotal role in handling game logic, player interactions, and physics calculations. For Rocket League, which involves fast-paced, real-time physics, a CPU with a high clock speed and strong single-core performance is often more beneficial than one with a multitude of lower-frequency cores. While specific minimums can vary, a quad-core processor operating at 2.5 GHz or higher is generally recommended for a smooth experience with a moderate number of players. The server's ability to process game state updates rapidly directly impacts responsiveness and minimizes input lag, a critical factor in competitive gaming.

Random Access Memory (RAM) serves as the server's short-term data storage, holding active game data, player information, and operating system processes. Insufficient RAM can lead to frequent disk swapping, causing noticeable performance degradation and stuttering. For a Rocket League private match server, a baseline of 4 GB of RAM is often cited as a minimum, with 8 GB or more being preferable for accommodating multiple simultaneous matches or a higher player count without performance bottlenecks. The speed of the RAM (e.g., DDR4 vs. DDR3) also contributes to overall system responsiveness, though its impact is generally less pronounced than the quantity of RAM for this specific application.

Network connectivity is arguably the most critical component for any online game server. A high-bandwidth, low-latency internet connection is paramount. Upload and download speeds directly influence the server's ability to send and receive game data to and from connected clients. For Rocket League, which relies on constant data exchange, a symmetrical connection (where upload and download speeds are similar) is ideal. A minimum of 100 Mbps symmetrical connection is often recommended, with higher speeds providing more headroom for multiple players and preventing bandwidth saturation. Latency, measured in milliseconds (ms), represents the time it takes for data to travel from the client to the server and back. Lower latency is always desirable, as it directly translates to a more responsive and less "laggy" gaming experience. A dedicated server should ideally be located geographically close to the majority of its players to minimize latency.

Storage requirements for Rocket League private match servers are relatively modest compared to other game types. The game server software itself, along with operating system files and any configuration data, typically occupies a few gigabytes. Solid State Drives (SSDs) are highly recommended over traditional Hard Disk Drives (HDDs) due to their significantly faster read/write speeds. While the game server doesn't constantly access large files, the rapid loading of configuration data and logging can benefit from SSD performance, contributing to quicker server startup times and overall system snappiness.

Finally, the operating system (OS) choice is a practical consideration. While Rocket League servers can run on various Linux distributions (e.g., Ubuntu, CentOS) or Windows Server, Linux is often favored in professional hosting environments due to its lower resource overhead, enhanced security features, and greater flexibility for command-line management ( Linux System Programming ). However, Windows Server offers a more familiar graphical user interface for those less comfortable with command-line operations. Regardless of the OS, regular security updates and proper firewall configurations are essential to protect the server from unauthorized access and potential cyber threats.

In summary, a robust Rocket League private match server necessitates a balanced combination of a capable CPU, sufficient RAM, a high-speed and low-latency network connection, and fast storage. These requirements collectively ensure a smooth, responsive, and enjoyable gaming experience for all participants.

Beginner's Guide

Embarking on the journey of setting up a Rocket League private match server can seem daunting at first, but with a structured approach, even novices can achieve a stable and enjoyable environment for their gaming sessions. This guide will demystify the process, from understanding the fundamental concepts to the initial steps of configuration.

The very first decision involves choosing between hosting a server yourself or utilizing a third-party hosting provider. Hosting yourself, often referred to as a "self-hosted" or "local" server, involves running the server software on your own computer or a dedicated machine within your home network. This option offers maximum control and can be cost-effective if you already possess suitable hardware and a robust internet connection. However, it demands technical proficiency, consumes local resources, and exposes your home network to potential security risks if not configured correctly. Furthermore, your internet connection's upload speed will be a significant limiting factor for other players connecting to your server.

Conversely, a third-party hosting provider offers a managed solution where they supply the hardware, network infrastructure, and often pre-configured server software. This approach significantly reduces the technical burden on the user, provides professional-grade performance, and typically includes robust security measures and customer support. While it incurs a recurring cost, it is often the preferred choice for those seeking reliability, scalability, and ease of use without the complexities of self-management.

Once the hosting method is decided, the next step is to acquire the Rocket League dedicated server files. For private matches, Rocket League does not officially provide a standalone dedicated server application for public download in the same manner as some other titles. Instead, private matches are typically facilitated through the game client itself, or by leveraging specific features within the game's architecture that allow for custom match creation and joining. This often involves inviting players directly through the game's social features or sharing a private match name and password. For more advanced setups, particularly those aiming for persistent custom servers or specific modding capabilities, players often resort to community-developed tools or specific configurations that emulate a dedicated server environment. It is crucial to consult official Rocket League documentation or reputable community forums for the most up-to-date and sanctioned methods for creating private match environments.

If you opt for a third-party hosting provider, the initial setup usually involves selecting a server plan that meets the previously discussed hardware and network requirements. Upon subscription, the provider will typically furnish you with access credentials (e.g., IP address, username, password) to a control panel or a direct SSH/RDP connection to your server. This control panel, often a web-based interface, simplifies server management tasks such as starting, stopping, and restarting the server, as well as managing game files and configurations.

For self-hosting, the process involves ensuring your computer meets the minimum specifications. You would then need to launch Rocket League and navigate to the "Play" menu, then "Private Match," and select "Create Private Match." Here, you can set a match name and password. Players can then join by selecting "Join Private Match" and entering the credentials. This method, while simple, relies on your local machine's resources and internet connection to act as the host. For a more robust "dedicated" feel, some advanced users might explore virtual machine setups or containerization technologies to isolate the game instance, though this moves beyond a beginner's scope.

Crucially, regardless of the hosting method, network configuration is vital. If self-hosting, you may need to configure port forwarding on your home router to allow incoming connections to your server. The specific ports required for Rocket League can vary, but common ports include UDP ports 7000-9000 and 8000-8100. Consulting your router's manual and Rocket League community resources for the exact port ranges is highly recommended. For hosted solutions, the provider typically handles network configuration, but understanding the concept of ports is still beneficial for troubleshooting.

Finally, testing your server is an indispensable step. After initial setup, invite a friend or two to join your private match. Pay close attention to latency, rubber-banding (where players appear to snap back to previous positions), and overall game stability. This initial testing phase helps identify and rectify any configuration errors or performance bottlenecks before a larger group of players joins. Patience and methodical troubleshooting are key to a successful server setup.

Hosting Service Comparison and Recommendations

Selecting the optimal hosting service for Rocket League private matches requires a discerning eye, balancing performance, cost, features, and support. The market is replete with providers, each offering a distinct blend of services. This section will compare key aspects and recommend services tailored for the unique demands of Rocket League.

When evaluating hosting providers, several critical metrics come to the forefront. Performance is paramount. This encompasses CPU speed, RAM allocation, and crucially, network latency and bandwidth. For Rocket League, a game where milliseconds matter, a provider with data centers geographically close to your player base is invaluable. Look for providers that explicitly mention low-latency networks and offer high-speed symmetrical internet connections.

Reliability and Uptime are non-negotiable. A server that frequently goes offline or experiences intermittent connectivity issues can quickly sour the gaming experience. Reputable hosts boast Service Level Agreements (SLAs) guaranteeing a high percentage of uptime, often 99.9% or higher. This indicates a commitment to stable infrastructure and proactive maintenance.

Cost is always a factor, but it should be weighed against the value offered. While budget-friendly options exist, excessively cheap plans might compromise on hardware quality, network performance, or customer support. It's essential to scrutinize what's included in the price: CPU cores, RAM, storage type (SSD vs. HDD), bandwidth limits, and included features.

Ease of Use and Control Panel are significant for those who prefer a streamlined management experience. Many game server hosts offer custom control panels (e.g., TCAdmin, Pterodactyl) designed specifically for game server management, simplifying tasks like server installation, configuration file editing, and plugin management. For more advanced users, direct SSH or RDP access provides granular control.

Customer Support can be a lifesaver when issues arise. Evaluate the availability (24/7), response times, and channels (live chat, tickets, phone) offered by the provider. Knowledgeable and responsive support can significantly reduce downtime and frustration.

Scalability is another consideration. If your private match needs grow, can your chosen plan easily be upgraded to accommodate more players or additional game instances without significant downtime or migration hassles?

Based on these criteria, here are general recommendations for hosting services, categorized by typical user needs:

For the Casual Gamer/Small Group (Ease of Use & Affordability): Many general-purpose game server hosts offer Rocket League server hosting, often through pre-configured instances. These are ideal for groups of 2-8 players who prioritize simplicity and a reasonable price point.

Recommendation: Look for providers that offer one-click Rocket League server deployment and a user-friendly control panel. These services often abstract away the underlying technical complexities, allowing you to focus on playing. While specific names are outside the scope of this academic text, search for "game server hosting" and filter by Rocket League support.

Pros: Easy setup, managed environment, often good customer support for basic issues.

Cons: Less control over server configuration, potentially higher cost per resource unit compared to unmanaged solutions.

For the Competitive Player/Larger Community (Performance & Control): For those hosting regular tournaments or larger private matches (8+ players), dedicated resources and lower latency are paramount. This often means opting for Virtual Private Servers (VPS) or even dedicated servers.

Recommendation: Providers specializing in high-performance VPS or dedicated servers. These typically offer more raw computing power, guaranteed resources, and greater control over the operating system and network stack. You would then manually install and configure the Rocket League server environment (or community-developed alternatives for private matches).

Pros: Superior performance, maximum control, often better value for raw resources, highly customizable.

Cons: Requires more technical expertise for setup and maintenance, generally higher cost.

For the Developer/Advanced User (Flexibility & Customization): Users who wish to experiment with custom server modifications, integrate with external tools, or have very specific network requirements might opt for unmanaged cloud instances or bare-metal dedicated servers.

Recommendation: Cloud providers (e.g., AWS, Google Cloud, Azure) or unmanaged dedicated server providers. These offer the ultimate flexibility but demand significant technical knowledge in server administration, networking, and security.

Pros: Unparalleled flexibility, access to cutting-edge infrastructure, pay-as-you-go models.

Cons: Steep learning curve, no managed game server features, full responsibility for security and maintenance.

When making a final decision, always leverage free trials if available, and read independent reviews from other gamers. Pay close attention to feedback regarding network performance and customer support specific to game server hosting. A well-chosen host can significantly enhance your Rocket League private match experience.

Troubleshooting

Even with meticulous planning, issues can arise when setting up or running a Rocket League private match server. Effective troubleshooting requires a systematic approach, isolating variables to pinpoint the root cause of the problem. This section outlines common issues and provides actionable steps for resolution.

1. Connectivity Issues (Players Cannot Join): This is perhaps the most frequent problem.

Symptom: Players receive "Connection Failed," "Server Not Found," or similar errors when attempting to join.

Diagnosis:

Incorrect IP Address/Port: Double-check that players are entering the correct server IP address and, if applicable, the correct port number. A single typo can prevent connection.

Firewall Blockage: The server's firewall (either the operating system's firewall or a network firewall) might be blocking incoming connections.

Action: Ensure that the necessary Rocket League ports (commonly UDP 7000-9000 and 8000-8100, but verify with community resources) are open on the server's firewall. For Windows, this involves creating inbound rules. For Linux, ufw or firewalld commands are used.

Router Port Forwarding (Self-Hosted): If you are self-hosting, your home router needs to be configured to forward the Rocket League ports to the internal IP address of your server machine.

Action: Access your router's administration interface (usually via a web browser), locate the "Port Forwarding" or "NAT" section, and create rules for the required UDP ports, directing them to your server's local IP.

Incorrect Server Status: The Rocket League private match might not be active or correctly configured within the game.

Action: Verify that the private match has been created with a name and password, and that the host is actively in the match lobby.

ISP Restrictions: Some Internet Service Providers (ISPs) block certain ports or implement Carrier-Grade NAT (CGNAT), which can interfere with direct incoming connections.

Action: Contact your ISP to inquire about any restrictions. If CGNAT is in place, a VPN or a third-party hosting solution might be necessary.

2. High Latency / Lag / Rubber-Banding: These symptoms indicate network performance issues.

Symptom: Players experience noticeable delays, characters snapping back to previous positions, or inconsistent hit registration.

Diagnosis:

Server Location: The geographical distance between the server and players is a primary cause of high latency.

Action: If using a hosted solution, choose a data center closer to the majority of your players. If self-hosting, ensure your players are geographically close to you.

Insufficient Bandwidth: The server's internet connection (especially upload speed for self-hosted servers) might be saturated.

Action: Upgrade your internet plan or reduce other network activities on the server machine/network. For hosted solutions, ensure your plan provides adequate bandwidth.

Network Congestion: Other devices on the server's network (or the host's home network) might be consuming significant bandwidth.

Action: Minimize other network usage during game sessions. Implement Quality of Service (QoS) settings on your router to prioritize game traffic.

Server Hardware Overload: The CPU or RAM on the server might be struggling to keep up with the game logic.

Action: Monitor CPU and RAM usage. If consistently high, consider upgrading server hardware or migrating to a more powerful hosting plan.

Wi-Fi Interference (Self-Hosted): Wireless connections are inherently less stable than wired connections.

Action: Always use an Ethernet cable for the server machine to ensure a stable and low-latency connection.

3. Server Crashing / Instability: Unexpected shutdowns or freezes.

Symptom: The Rocket League private match unexpectedly closes, or the server becomes unresponsive.

Diagnosis:

Insufficient Resources: The server might be running out of RAM or CPU cycles, leading to crashes.

Action: Monitor resource usage. Increase RAM, upgrade CPU, or reduce the number of concurrent matches/players.

Software Bugs/Corruption: Corrupted game files or an outdated operating system/game server version can cause instability.

Action: Verify the integrity of game files (if applicable through a launcher) or reinstall the server software. Ensure the operating system and all drivers are up to date.

Overheating (Self-Hosted): Poor cooling can lead to hardware instability.

Action: Ensure adequate ventilation for the server machine. Clean dust from fans and heatsinks.

Configuration Errors: Incorrect settings in server configuration files can lead to crashes.

Action: Review any custom configuration files for syntax errors or invalid values. Revert to default configurations if necessary and reapply changes incrementally.

4. Game-Specific Issues (e.g., Physics Glitches):

Symptom: Unexplained physics anomalies, ball behavior, or player movement.

Diagnosis:

High Latency: Often, what appears to be a physics glitch is a manifestation of severe network lag.

Action: Address latency issues as described above.

Server Tick Rate: While Rocket League private matches don't typically expose a configurable "tick rate" in the same way as some other games, the underlying server performance dictates how frequently game state updates are processed.

Action: Ensure the server hardware is robust enough to handle the game's demands, as a struggling server will process fewer updates per second, leading to less precise physics.

When troubleshooting, always change one variable at a time and test the results. Keep a log of changes made and their outcomes. Consulting Rocket League community forums and official support channels can also provide valuable insights into specific, known issues.

Performance Optimization Tips

Achieving peak performance for Rocket League private matches is not solely about raw hardware; it also involves strategic configuration and ongoing maintenance. Optimizing your server ensures a fluid, responsive, and enjoyable experience for all players, minimizing frustrating lag and maximizing competitive integrity.

1. Prioritize Network Stability and Latency: The bedrock of any online game's performance is its network.

Dedicated Bandwidth: Ensure the server has exclusive access to its allocated internet bandwidth. Avoid running other bandwidth-intensive applications (streaming, large downloads, other game servers) on the same network connection, especially for self-hosted solutions.

Wired Connection: Always use an Ethernet connection for the server. Wi-Fi introduces inherent latency, packet loss, and instability due to interference and signal degradation.

Geographic Proximity: If using a hosted solution, select a data center that is geographically closest to the majority of your player base. The physical distance data travels directly impacts latency.

Quality of Service (QoS): Configure QoS settings on your router (for self-hosted servers) to prioritize game traffic. This ensures that Rocket League data packets receive preferential treatment over less time-sensitive traffic.

Minimize Hops: While largely controlled by your ISP and hosting provider, fewer network "hops" between the client and server generally result in lower latency.

2. Optimize Server Hardware Utilization: Efficient use of CPU, RAM, and storage is crucial.

CPU Affinity (Advanced): For self-hosted servers with multiple applications, you might consider setting CPU affinity for the Rocket League server process to specific cores. This can prevent other processes from contending for the same CPU resources, though it requires careful management to avoid starving other essential system processes.

Sufficient RAM: Ensure the server has ample RAM. While Rocket League isn't a memory hog, having enough RAM prevents the operating system from resorting to slower disk-based swap memory, which can introduce stutters. Monitor RAM usage and upgrade if consistently high.

SSD Storage: Always use Solid State Drives (SSDs) for the operating system and game server files. The faster read/write speeds of SSDs contribute to quicker server startup times and more responsive file access, even if the game server isn't constantly hitting the disk.

Minimize Background Processes: On the server machine, disable or uninstall any unnecessary background applications, services, or bloatware that consume CPU, RAM, or network resources. Every background process competes for resources that could otherwise be dedicated to the game server.

3. Operating System and Software Configuration: The underlying software environment significantly impacts performance.

Lightweight OS: For dedicated servers, consider using a lightweight Linux distribution (e.g., Ubuntu Server, Debian) without a graphical user interface. These consume fewer resources than Windows Server or desktop Linux distributions, leaving more CPU and RAM for the game.

Regular Updates: Keep the operating system, network drivers, and any server management software up to date. Updates often include performance enhancements, bug fixes, and security patches.

Firewall Optimization: While essential for security, overly aggressive firewall rules or inefficient firewall configurations can introduce latency. Ensure your firewall is configured to allow only the necessary Rocket League ports and protocols, and that its rules are optimized for performance.

Disable Unnecessary Services: Review and disable any operating system services that are not essential for the game server's operation. This reduces resource consumption and potential security vulnerabilities.

4. Game-Specific Settings and Configuration: While Rocket League private matches offer limited server-side configuration options compared to some other games, understanding what is available is key.

Match Settings: Keep match settings consistent and avoid frequent changes during live play, as this can sometimes cause minor hitches.

Player Count: While a server can theoretically support many players, performance can degrade with higher player counts, especially if hardware or network resources are stretched. Test different player counts to find the optimal balance for your server's capabilities.

Server Tick Rate (Implicit): While not directly configurable, the server's ability to process game state updates (its effective "tick rate") is a direct function of its CPU performance. A more powerful CPU will allow the server to process more updates per second, leading to a smoother and more precise game experience.

By systematically addressing these areas, you can significantly enhance the performance and stability of your Rocket League private match server, providing a superior gaming environment for all participants.

Technical Q&A

This section addresses common technical questions related to Rocket League private match server setup, offering concise and authoritative answers based on established computing and networking principles.

Q1: What is the difference between hosting a Rocket League private match locally and using a dedicated server?

A1: Hosting a Rocket League private match locally means one player's game client acts as the host, using their computer's resources and internet connection to manage the match. This is typically a peer-to-peer (P2P) connection. A dedicated server, conversely, is a separate machine (either self-owned or rented from a provider) specifically configured to run the Rocket League server software (or a community-developed equivalent for private matches) without a graphical client. The key differences lie in resource allocation, network stability, and control. A dedicated server offers guaranteed resources, a stable, high-bandwidth connection, and is not affected by the host's local machine performance or internet usage, leading to lower latency and a more consistent experience for all players.

Q2: Do I need a static IP address for my self-hosted Rocket League private match server?

A2: While not strictly mandatory, a static IP address is highly recommended for a self-hosted server. A static IP ensures that your server's public address remains constant, making it easier for players to connect without needing to update the IP address each time your internet connection renews its dynamic IP. If you have a dynamic IP, you would need to use a Dynamic DNS (DDNS) service, which maps a static hostname to your dynamic IP, allowing players to connect via a domain name instead of a changing IP address.

Q3: What are the essential network ports to open for a Rocket League private match server?

A3: For Rocket League private matches, the primary communication occurs over UDP (User Datagram Protocol). While specific port ranges can sometimes vary or be updated, commonly cited ports for Rocket League server communication include UDP ports 7000-9000 and 8000-8100. It is crucial to consult the latest official documentation or reliable community resources for the most accurate and up-to-date port requirements. These ports must be forwarded on your router (for self-hosted servers) and allowed through any software firewalls on the server machine.

Q4: How does server tick rate affect Rocket League gameplay, and can I configure it?

A4: The "tick rate" of a game server refers to how many times per second the server updates the game state (e.g., player positions, ball physics, score). A higher tick rate means more frequent updates, leading to more precise hit detection, smoother movement, and a more responsive feel. For Rocket League, while there isn't a direct, user-configurable "tick rate" setting exposed in the private match creation interface, the effective tick rate is implicitly determined by the server's processing power and network performance. A more powerful CPU and a stable, low-latency network allow the server to process game state updates more frequently and reliably, thus providing a higher effective tick rate and a better gameplay experience.

Q5: What is the impact of latency (ping) on Rocket League private matches?

A5: Latency, often referred to as "ping," is the time delay (measured in milliseconds) for data to travel from a player's client to the server and back. In Rocket League, high latency significantly degrades gameplay. It can lead to:

Input Lag: A delay between a player's action (e.g., boosting, jumping) and the game's response.

Rubber-Banding: Players or the ball appearing to snap back to previous positions due to delayed server updates.

Inconsistent Hit Registration: Discrepancies between what a player sees on their screen and what the server registers, leading to missed hits or phantom touches.

Desynchronization: The game state appearing differently for various players. Lower latency is critical for competitive Rocket League, ensuring that player actions are registered quickly and accurately, and that all players experience a consistent and fair game state.

Q6: Can I run other applications on the same machine as my Rocket League private match server?

A6: While technically possible, it is generally not recommended to run other resource-intensive applications on the same machine as your Rocket League private match server, especially for self-hosted solutions. Other applications (e.g., web browsers, streaming software, other games, background downloads) will compete for CPU, RAM, and network bandwidth, potentially leading to performance degradation, increased latency, and instability for the game server. For optimal performance, a dedicated server machine or a virtual private server (VPS) should be exclusively used for the Rocket League server to ensure all resources are allocated to the game.

Q7: How can I secure my Rocket League private match server from unauthorized access?

A7: Securing your server involves several layers of protection:

Strong Passwords: Use complex, unique passwords for server access (SSH, RDP, control panel) and for the private match itself.

Firewall Configuration: Implement a robust firewall (both operating system and network level) to restrict incoming connections to only the necessary Rocket League ports. Block all other unnecessary ports.

Regular Updates: Keep the operating system, server software, and all installed applications updated to patch known security vulnerabilities.

Disable Unused Services: Turn off any unnecessary services or daemons running on the server to reduce the attack surface.

SSH Key Authentication (Linux): For Linux servers, use SSH key-based authentication instead of password-based authentication for remote access, as it is significantly more secure.

Monitoring: Regularly monitor server logs for suspicious activity or unauthorized access attempts.

Q8: What is the role of a control panel in game server hosting?

A8: A control panel (e.g., TCAdmin, Pterodactyl, or custom web interfaces) provides a user-friendly graphical interface for managing a game server. Its role is to simplify complex server administration tasks, making them accessible even to users without extensive command-line experience. Key functionalities typically include:

Starting, stopping, and restarting the game server.

Uploading, downloading, and editing game server configuration files.

Installing and updating game server software.

Managing user accounts and permissions.

Viewing server logs and resource usage.

Automating backups. Control panels abstract away the underlying operating system commands, streamlining the management process and reducing the likelihood of configuration errors.

Q9: Can I use a VPN with my Rocket League private match server?

A9: Using a VPN with a Rocket League private match server can have both advantages and disadvantages.

Advantages: A VPN can encrypt server traffic, potentially enhancing security and privacy. It can also sometimes bypass ISP throttling or geo-restrictions.

Disadvantages: A VPN introduces an additional "hop" in the network path, which almost invariably increases latency. This increased latency can negatively impact Rocket League's real-time gameplay, making it less responsive. For optimal performance, a direct, unencrypted connection is generally preferred. If a VPN is used, it should be a high-quality service with servers geographically close to your players and the lowest possible latency overhead.

Q10: How do I ensure fairness and prevent cheating in my private matches?

A10: While Rocket League has built-in anti-cheat mechanisms, private matches can still be susceptible to various forms of unfair play. To promote fairness:

Trustworthy Players: Primarily invite players you know and trust.

Spectator Mode: Utilize the spectator mode to monitor gameplay for suspicious behavior.

Record Gameplay: Encourage players to record their gameplay, which can serve as evidence in case of disputes.

Server-Side Anti-Cheat (if available): If using a community-developed server solution that offers server-side anti-cheat plugins or features, enable and configure them. However, official Rocket League private matches rely on the game's client-side anti-cheat.

Consistent Rules: Establish clear rules for your private matches and enforce them consistently.

Performance Optimization: Ensure your server is performing optimally. A laggy server can sometimes be mistaken for cheating, and a smooth experience reduces frustration that might lead to cheating.