Gamer Hosting: Useful Software KiwamiServer Setup Guide for [Broforce (multiplayer)] Gamers
Game Server Requirements
Setting up a dedicated server for Broforce (multiplayer) demands a careful consideration of underlying hardware and network infrastructure to ensure a fluid and uninterrupted gameplay experience for all participants. Unlike many modern titles that rely heavily on client-side processing, Broforce's physics-driven destruction and simultaneous player actions necessitate a robust server environment to synchronize game states accurately and minimize latency.
At its core, a Broforce server requires a stable operating system. While the game itself is cross-platform, server implementations typically favor Linux distributions due to their efficiency, security, and lower resource overhead compared to Windows Server editions. Distributions such as Ubuntu Server or Debian are frequently recommended for their extensive community support and well-documented administration tools (Linux Server Administration Handbook). The choice of operating system directly impacts the ease of installation and ongoing maintenance, with command-line interfaces being the primary method of interaction for dedicated servers.
Processor requirements, while not as demanding as for graphically intensive 3D games, are still crucial. A multi-core CPU is highly beneficial, even if Broforce itself might not fully saturate all cores. The server process, along with the operating system and any background services, will benefit from the ability to distribute computational load. A dual-core processor with a clock speed of at least 2.0 GHz is generally considered a minimum, though a quad-core processor or better, such as an Intel Xeon E3 series or AMD Ryzen 3, will provide a more comfortable buffer for peak player counts and future updates. The server's ability to handle numerous simultaneous calculations, particularly those related to projectile trajectories, environmental destruction, and player movement, is directly tied to CPU performance.
Memory (RAM) is another critical component. While Broforce itself is not a memory hog, the operating system and other server processes will consume a baseline amount. For a dedicated Broforce server, a minimum of 2 GB of RAM is advisable, with 4 GB or more being recommended for optimal performance, especially when hosting multiple instances of the game or running other services concurrently (Operating System Concepts). Insufficient RAM can lead to excessive disk swapping, which significantly degrades server responsiveness and introduces noticeable lag for players.
Storage, while less performance-critical than CPU or RAM, still plays a role. A Solid State Drive (SSD) is highly recommended over a traditional Hard Disk Drive (HDD) for the operating system and game files. The faster read/write speeds of an SSD will accelerate server boot times, game file loading, and the handling of temporary game data, contributing to a snappier overall experience (Storage Systems: Organization, Performance, Reliability, and Security). While Broforce game files are relatively small, the cumulative effect of faster I/O operations can be significant in a server environment. A minimum of 20 GB of free disk space is typically sufficient for the operating system and game files, with additional space allocated for logs and potential future updates.
Network connectivity is paramount for any multiplayer game server. A stable, high-bandwidth internet connection is non-negotiable. For Broforce, which involves frequent updates of player positions and environmental changes, a low-latency connection is more important than raw download speed. An upload speed of at least 10 Mbps is generally recommended for a small to medium-sized server (e.g., 4-8 players), with higher speeds proportionally beneficial for larger player counts. The server should ideally be connected via a wired Ethernet connection to minimize packet loss and latency fluctuations that can occur with Wi-Fi. Furthermore, the server's public IP address must be accessible, often requiring port forwarding configuration on the router to allow incoming connections on the specific ports Broforce uses (typically UDP ports, though specific port numbers can vary and should be confirmed with game documentation). Firewall rules on the server itself must also be configured to permit traffic on these ports.
Finally, the server environment should be stable and secure. This includes ensuring adequate cooling to prevent hardware overheating, a reliable power supply, and regular security updates for the operating system and any installed software. A dedicated server, whether physical or virtual, should ideally be isolated from other non-essential services to minimize resource contention and potential security vulnerabilities. Understanding these fundamental requirements forms the bedrock of a successful Broforce multiplayer server deployment.
Beginner's Guide
Embarking on the journey of hosting your own Broforce multiplayer server can seem daunting at first, but with a structured approach, even novices can achieve a stable and enjoyable experience for their fellow bros. This guide will walk you through the essential steps, from initial setup to getting your server online.
The very first step is to choose your server platform. You have two primary options: a dedicated physical machine or a Virtual Private Server (VPS). A dedicated physical machine offers maximum control and performance but requires significant upfront investment and technical expertise for maintenance. A VPS, offered by various hosting providers, is a more accessible option, providing a virtualized environment with dedicated resources without the need for physical hardware management. For beginners, a VPS is often the more practical choice due to its scalability and managed infrastructure.
Once you've selected your platform, the next crucial step is to install the operating system. As previously discussed, Linux distributions like Ubuntu Server are highly recommended. Most VPS providers offer pre-installed OS images, simplifying this process. If you're using a physical machine, you'll need to download the ISO image, create a bootable USB drive, and follow the installation prompts. During installation, ensure you create a strong root password and set up a non-root user for daily operations, enhancing security.
With the operating system in place, you'll need to establish a secure connection to your server. For Linux servers, this is typically done via Secure Shell (SSH). On Windows, you can use a client like PuTTY; on macOS and Linux, the ssh command is built-in. You'll connect using the server's IP address and your username (e.g., ssh username@server_ip_address). This command-line interface will be your primary tool for managing the server.
Before installing the Broforce server files, it's good practice to update your system's package list and upgrade any existing software. This ensures you have the latest security patches and software versions. Execute the following commands:
sudo apt update
sudo apt upgrade
(for Debian/Ubuntu-based systems).
The Broforce dedicated server application is typically distributed via SteamCMD, a command-line version of the Steam client. First, you need to install SteamCMD. On Ubuntu/Debian, this involves adding the Steam repository and then installing the package:
sudo add-apt-repository multiverse
sudo apt update
sudo apt install steamcmd
Once SteamCMD is installed, you'll use it to download the Broforce server files. It's advisable to create a dedicated user for SteamCMD and the game server to enhance security and resource management.
sudo adduser steam
sudo su - steam
Now, within the steam user's environment, launch SteamCMD:
steamcmd
Inside the SteamCMD prompt, you'll log in anonymously and download the Broforce dedicated server files. The App ID for Broforce needs to be identified (often found through community wikis or SteamDB). Let's assume the App ID is XXXXXX for this example.
login anonymous
force_install_dir /home/steam/broforce_server
app_update XXXXXX validate
quit
Replace XXXXXX with the actual Broforce dedicated server App ID. The force_install_dir command specifies where the server files will be downloaded.
After the files are downloaded, you'll need to configure the server. Broforce servers often use a configuration file (e.g., server.cfg or similar, the exact name and location may vary and should be confirmed with game-specific documentation). This file will contain settings such as the server name, password, maximum players, and game modes. You can edit this file using a command-line text editor like nano or vi:
nano /home/steam/broforce_server/server.cfg
Populate this file with your desired settings.
The final step is to launch the server. The executable for the Broforce server will be located within the broforce_server directory. You'll typically run it with specific command-line arguments. A common practice is to use screen or tmux to keep the server running even after you disconnect from SSH.
screen -S broforce_server
cd /home/steam/broforce_server
./BroforceServerExecutable -config server.cfg
(Replace BroforceServerExecutable with the actual name of the server executable).
Remember to configure your firewall to allow incoming connections on the necessary ports (e.g., UDP 27015, 27016, etc., as specified by Broforce documentation). For ufw (Uncomplicated Firewall) on Ubuntu:
sudo ufw allow 27015/udp
sudo ufw allow 27016/udp
sudo ufw enable
This beginner's guide provides a solid foundation. As you become more comfortable, you can explore advanced topics like automated server restarts, monitoring, and more sophisticated security measures. The key is to proceed systematically and consult official documentation or community resources when encountering specific issues.
Hosting Service Comparison and Recommendations
Choosing the right hosting service for your Broforce multiplayer server is a pivotal decision that directly impacts performance, reliability, and your overall administrative experience. While the game's resource demands are moderate, the quality of the underlying infrastructure and the provider's support can make a significant difference. This section will compare various hosting options and offer recommendations tailored for Broforce gamers.
The landscape of server hosting can be broadly categorized into several types, each with its own advantages and disadvantages.
1. Shared Hosting:
Description: Your server instance shares resources (CPU, RAM, disk I/O, network bandwidth) with many other users on the same physical machine.
Pros: Extremely low cost, often includes managed services.
Cons: Highly susceptible to "noisy neighbor" issues, where other users' activities can degrade your server's performance. Limited control over the environment. Not suitable for dedicated game servers due to unpredictable performance.
Recommendation for Broforce: Avoid. The unpredictable performance will lead to lag, desynchronization, and a frustrating experience for players.
2. Virtual Private Server (VPS) Hosting:
Description: A virtualized slice of a physical server, offering dedicated resources (CPU cores, RAM) that are not shared with other users. You have root access and full control over the operating system.
Pros: Excellent balance of cost and performance. Scalable resources, allowing you to upgrade as your needs grow. Full administrative control.
Cons: Requires some technical knowledge for setup and maintenance (OS installation, software configuration, security).
Recommendation for Broforce: Highly Recommended. This is the sweet spot for most Broforce server administrators. Providers like DigitalOcean, Linode, Vultr, and OVHcloud offer robust VPS solutions with competitive pricing. Look for plans with at least 2 CPU cores, 4 GB RAM, and an SSD for optimal performance. Their global data centers allow you to choose a location geographically close to your player base, minimizing latency.
3. Dedicated Server Hosting:
Description: You rent an entire physical server, with all its resources exclusively yours.
Pros: Maximum performance, control, and customization. No "noisy neighbor" issues. Ideal for very large communities or multiple game servers.
Cons: Significantly more expensive than VPS. Requires advanced technical expertise for hardware and software management.
Recommendation for Broforce: Recommended for large communities or multiple servers. If you plan to host Broforce for a very active, large community, or if you intend to run several game servers simultaneously (e.g., Broforce alongside other titles), a dedicated server from providers like OVHcloud, Hetzner, or ServerMania can provide unparalleled stability and power. However, for a single Broforce server for a small to medium group, a VPS is usually more cost-effective.
4. Game Server Hosting (Managed Solutions):
Description: Specialized providers offer pre-configured game servers, often with a custom control panel for easy management. They handle the underlying infrastructure and game server updates.
Pros: Extremely user-friendly, no technical expertise required. Quick setup. Dedicated support for game-specific issues.
Cons: Less control over the underlying operating system and server configuration. Can be more expensive than a self-managed VPS for comparable resources.
Recommendation for Broforce: Recommended for absolute beginners or those who prefer hands-off management. If you want to get a Broforce server online with minimal fuss and are willing to pay a premium for convenience, providers like Hostinger, GPORTAL, or Nitrado (check for Broforce support specifically) can be good options. However, always verify their Broforce support and available features before committing.
Key Factors for Comparison:
Location of Data Centers: Choose a data center geographically close to your primary player base to minimize latency (ping). A lower ping translates to a smoother, more responsive gameplay experience.
CPU Performance: Look for modern CPU architectures (e.g., Intel Xeon E3/E5, AMD EPYC/Ryzen) with sufficient clock speed.
RAM: Aim for at least 4 GB for a stable Broforce server.
Storage: SSD storage is crucial for fast loading times and overall server responsiveness.
Network Bandwidth: Ensure ample bandwidth (e.g., 1 Gbps port speed) and unmetered or generous data transfer limits.
Uptime Guarantee: A reputable host will offer a high uptime guarantee (e.g., 99.9% or higher), ensuring your server is consistently available.
Customer Support: Responsive and knowledgeable support is invaluable, especially when troubleshooting issues.
Pricing Structure: Understand the monthly costs, potential hidden fees, and scalability options.
Specific Recommendations for Broforce (VPS Focus):
DigitalOcean: Known for its developer-friendly interface, robust SSD-backed droplets, and multiple data center locations. Excellent for those comfortable with Linux command line.
Linode: Similar to DigitalOcean, offering reliable VPS instances with good performance and a strong community.
Vultr: Offers competitive pricing and a wide array of data centers, including some in less common regions, which can be beneficial for specific player bases.
OVHcloud: Provides a range of VPS and dedicated server options, often with very competitive pricing, particularly for higher-end configurations.
When making your final decision, consider your technical comfort level, budget, and the expected size and geographical distribution of your Broforce community. A well-chosen hosting service forms the backbone of a successful and enjoyable multiplayer experience.
Troubleshooting
Even the most meticulously set up Broforce server can encounter issues. Effective troubleshooting requires a systematic approach, starting with the most common problems and progressively moving to more complex diagnostics. This section outlines typical server issues and their solutions, empowering you to quickly resolve disruptions and get your bros back into action.
1. Server Not Appearing in Game Browser / Players Cannot Connect:
Symptom: Players cannot see your server in the in-game browser or receive "Connection Failed" errors when attempting to connect via IP.
Possible Causes & Solutions:
Firewall Blockage: This is the most frequent culprit.
Server Firewall: Ensure that the necessary UDP ports (typically 27015 and 27016, but verify Broforce documentation) are open on your server's operating system firewall (e.g., ufw on Linux, Windows Defender Firewall). Use sudo ufw status to check ufw rules and sudo ufw allow
Router Firewall (Port Forwarding): If your server is behind a router, you must configure port forwarding to direct incoming traffic on the Broforce ports to your server's internal IP address. Consult your router's manual or online resources for specific instructions.
Incorrect IP Address: Players might be trying to connect to the wrong IP. Ensure they have your server's public IP address, not its internal (LAN) IP. You can find your public IP by running curl ifconfig.me on your server or by visiting a "What is my IP" website from the server itself.
Server Not Running: Verify the server process is actually active. Use screen -ls to check for your broforce_server screen session, and if found, screen -r broforce_server to reattach and see its output. Look for error messages.
Game Version Mismatch: The server and client game versions must match exactly. Ensure your server is updated via SteamCMD (app_update XXXXXX validate) and players have the latest game client.
Server Configuration Errors: Check your server.cfg (or equivalent) for typos or incorrect values. An invalid port number or server name can prevent it from registering correctly.
2. High Latency (Lag) / Desynchronization:
Symptom: Players experience noticeable delays between actions and their effects, rubber-banding, or inconsistent game state among players.
Possible Causes & Solutions:
Network Congestion:
Server-Side: Check if other applications on your server are consuming significant bandwidth. Use htop or top to monitor CPU/RAM usage and iftop or nload to monitor network traffic.
Client-Side: Advise players to check their own internet connections. High ping from a player's end will manifest as lag for them.
ISP Issues: Sometimes, the problem lies with your Internet Service Provider (ISP) or the routing path between players and the server. Use ping and traceroute (or tracert on Windows) to diagnose network path issues.
Insufficient Server Resources:
CPU Bottleneck: If the server's CPU is consistently at 90-100% utilization, it cannot process game logic fast enough. Monitor CPU usage with htop. Consider upgrading your VPS plan or optimizing server processes.
RAM Exhaustion: If the server is constantly swapping to disk, performance will plummet. Monitor RAM usage with free -h or htop. Increase RAM if necessary.
Geographical Distance: If players are very far from the server's data center, latency will naturally be higher. There's no direct fix for this other than choosing a server location closer to the majority of your players.
Server Tick Rate: While Broforce may not expose a direct "tick rate" setting, some games do. If it exists, a lower tick rate can reduce CPU usage but might increase perceived lag.
3. Server Crashing / Unstable Operation:
Symptom: The Broforce server process unexpectedly terminates, or the server becomes unresponsive.
Possible Causes & Solutions:
Out of Memory (OOM) Errors: The server might be running out of RAM, causing the operating system to kill the process. Check system logs (/var/log/syslog or dmesg) for OOM killer messages. Increase RAM.
Game Server Bugs: Software bugs in the Broforce dedicated server itself can cause crashes. Ensure your server is always running the latest version. Report persistent crashes to the game developers.
Corrupted Game Files: Files might have become corrupted during download or operation. Run app_update XXXXXX validate in SteamCMD to verify and repair files.
Operating System Issues: Underlying OS instability, kernel panics, or critical errors can bring down the server. Keep your OS updated and monitor system logs for unusual activity.
Hardware Failure (Dedicated Servers): For physical dedicated servers, hardware issues (e.g., failing RAM, disk, or CPU) can cause instability. Monitor hardware health if possible.
4. Performance Degradation Over Time:
Symptom: Server runs well initially but performance slowly degrades after hours or days of uptime.
Possible Causes & Solutions:
Memory Leaks: The game server application might have a memory leak, gradually consuming more RAM until it crashes or becomes unresponsive. Restarting the server periodically can mitigate this.
Log File Accumulation: Excessive logging can consume disk space and I/O resources. Implement log rotation or periodically clear old logs.
Fragmented Disk (Less Common on SSDs): While less of an issue with SSDs, on HDDs, severe fragmentation could theoretically impact performance.
Background Processes: Other processes on the server might be consuming resources over time. Regularly review running processes with htop.
General Troubleshooting Best Practices:
Check Logs First: The server's console output and any log files generated by the Broforce server are your primary source of information. Look for error messages, warnings, or unusual patterns.
Isolate the Problem: Try to narrow down when the problem occurs. Is it constant, or does it happen only under specific conditions (e.g., high player count, specific game mode)?
Restart Services: A simple restart of the Broforce server process (or even the entire server) can often resolve transient issues.
Consult Community Resources: Broforce communities (forums, Discord servers) are invaluable resources. Someone else has likely encountered and solved your problem before.
Document Changes: Keep a record of any changes you make to the server configuration or operating system. This helps in backtracking if a change introduces a new problem.
By approaching troubleshooting methodically and leveraging the available diagnostic tools, you can maintain a stable and high-performing Broforce server for your community.
Performance Optimization Tips
Optimizing your Broforce multiplayer server goes beyond merely meeting the minimum requirements; it's about fine-tuning the environment to deliver the smoothest, most responsive gameplay possible. Given Broforce's chaotic, physics-heavy action, every millisecond of reduced latency and every frame of improved server-side processing contributes to a superior player experience.
1. Operating System Level Optimizations:
Minimalist OS Installation: Install only essential packages on your Linux server. Avoid graphical user interfaces (GUIs) and unnecessary services that consume CPU, RAM, and disk I/O. A headless server environment is ideal (Linux System Programming).
Kernel Tuning (Advanced): For very high-performance scenarios, advanced users might consider tuning kernel parameters. For instance, increasing network buffer sizes or adjusting TCP congestion control algorithms can sometimes yield minor improvements, though this requires careful research and understanding.
Disable Unnecessary Services: Review and disable any system services that are not required for the Broforce server or basic OS operation. Use systemctl list-unit-files --state=enabled to see enabled services and sudo systemctl disable
Update Regularly: Keep your operating system and all installed packages up to date. Updates often include performance enhancements and security patches.
Use a Lightweight Firewall: While a firewall is essential, ensure it's not overly complex or resource-intensive. ufw (Uncomplicated Firewall) on Ubuntu is generally efficient.
2. Network Optimizations:
Prioritize Server Traffic (QoS - Quality of Service): If your server is on a network with other traffic (e.g., a home network with other users), consider implementing QoS rules on your router to prioritize game server traffic. This ensures that Broforce packets get preferential treatment, reducing latency spikes caused by other network activities (Computer Networks).
Choose Optimal Data Center Location: As mentioned in the hosting comparison, selecting a data center geographically closest to the majority of your players is the single most effective way to reduce network latency.
Wired Connection: Always use a wired Ethernet connection for your server. Wi-Fi introduces variability in latency and can suffer from interference, leading to an inconsistent experience.
Monitor Network Usage: Regularly monitor network traffic on your server to identify any unexpected bandwidth consumption that could impact game performance. Tools like iftop or nload are useful for this.
3. Game Server Specific Optimizations:
Keep Server Updated: Always run the latest version of the Broforce dedicated server. Developers frequently release patches that include performance improvements, bug fixes, and optimizations.
Configuration File Tuning: Carefully review your server.cfg (or equivalent) for any performance-related settings. While Broforce might not expose extensive server-side performance options, some games allow adjustments to parameters like:
Max Players: While tempting to host many players, each additional player increases the server's computational load. Find a balance between player capacity and stable performance. If lag becomes an issue, consider reducing the maximum player count.
Game Mode Specifics: Certain game modes or map elements might be more resource-intensive. If you notice performance dips in specific scenarios, consider limiting those or optimizing the server for them.
Resource Monitoring: Continuously monitor your server's CPU, RAM, and disk I/O usage.
CPU: High CPU utilization (consistently above 80-90%) indicates a bottleneck. Consider upgrading your CPU or reducing player count.
RAM: Ensure there's always sufficient free RAM. If the server is constantly using swap space, it will severely impact performance.
Disk I/O: While less critical for Broforce during active gameplay, high disk I/O can indicate issues with logging or other background processes.
Tools like htop, free -h, iostat, and vmstat are invaluable for this.
4. Server Management Best Practices:
Automated Restarts: Implement a script to automatically restart your Broforce server periodically (e.g., daily or every few days). This can mitigate potential memory leaks or other long-running process issues that degrade performance over time. Use cron for scheduling.
Log Management: Configure log rotation to prevent log files from consuming excessive disk space and potentially impacting disk I/O. Tools like logrotate can automate this.
Security: While not directly a performance optimization, a secure server prevents unauthorized access and malicious activity that can consume resources and degrade performance. Keep software updated, use strong passwords, and configure SSH key-based authentication.
Dedicated User: Run the Broforce server under a dedicated, non-root user (e.g., steam user). This enhances security and helps in resource management.
By diligently applying these optimization tips, you can transform a functional Broforce server into a high-performance battleground, ensuring that every explosion, every bro-call, and every heroic sacrifice is rendered with minimal interruption.
Technical Q&A
This section addresses common technical questions that arise during the setup, maintenance, and operation of a Broforce multiplayer server. Understanding these nuances can save significant troubleshooting time and enhance your overall server administration capabilities.
Q1: What specific ports does the Broforce dedicated server use, and are they TCP or UDP?
A1: While specific port numbers can sometimes vary slightly with game updates or custom configurations, Broforce, like many multiplayer games, primarily relies on UDP (User Datagram Protocol) for real-time game data transmission due to its speed and lower overhead compared to TCP. Common ports used by Broforce and Steam-related services include:
UDP 27015: Often used for game client connections.
UDP 27016: Frequently used for server queries and RCON (Remote Console) if implemented.
UDP 27000-27030: A range often used by Steam for various services, including matchmaking and authentication.
TCP 27015: Less common for game data, but sometimes used for initial connection handshakes or RCON.
It is crucial to consult the most up-to-date Broforce dedicated server documentation or community wikis for the precise and current port requirements. Always open these ports on both your server's operating system firewall and your router's port forwarding rules.
Q2: Can I run multiple Broforce servers on a single VPS or dedicated machine?
A2: Yes, it is technically possible to run multiple Broforce server instances on a single machine, provided the server has sufficient resources (CPU, RAM, network bandwidth) to handle the cumulative load. Each instance will require its own set of game files (downloaded to separate directories via SteamCMD), its own unique configuration file, and must be configured to use different port numbers to avoid conflicts.
For example, if your first server uses UDP 27015 and 27016, your second server might use UDP 27017 and 27018. You would then need to configure port forwarding for all these distinct port sets. While feasible, this approach increases the complexity of management and resource allocation. It's often recommended to start with one server and scale up only if resources permit and demand necessitates.
Q3: How do I ensure my Broforce server automatically starts after a reboot?
A3: To ensure your Broforce server automatically starts after a system reboot, you can create a systemd service unit file (on Linux systems that use systemd, which is most modern distributions like Ubuntu, Debian, CentOS).
Create a service file:
sudo nano /etc/systemd/system/broforce_server.service
Add the following content (adjust paths and executable name as needed):
[Unit]
Description=Broforce Dedicated Server
After=network.target
[Service] User=steam WorkingDirectory=/home/steam/broforce_server ExecStart=/usr/bin/screen -DmS broforce_server /home/steam/broforce_server/BroforceServerExecutable -config server.cfg ExecStop=/usr/bin/screen -X -S broforce_server quit Restart=always RestartSec=5
[Install] WantedBy=multi-user.target ``` * User=steam: Replace `steam` with the user account you created for running the server. * `WorkingDirectory`: Path to your Broforce server installation. * `ExecStart`: The command to start your server within a `screen` session. Ensure `BroforceServerExecutable` is the correct name. * `ExecStop`: Command to gracefully stop the screen session. * `Restart=always`: Ensures the server restarts if it crashes. * `RestartSec=5`: Waits 5 seconds before attempting a restart.
Reload systemd and enable the service:
sudo systemctl daemon-reload
sudo systemctl enable broforce_server.service
sudo systemctl start broforce_server.service
Now, your Broforce server will start automatically on boot and restart if it crashes.
Q4: What is RCON, and how can I use it for Broforce?
A4: RCON (Remote Console) is a protocol that allows server administrators to execute commands on a game server remotely, typically from a separate client application or a web interface. This enables tasks such as changing maps, kicking/banning players, sending messages, or modifying server settings without needing direct SSH access to the server console.
The availability and implementation of RCON vary significantly between games. For Broforce, you would need to:
Check if RCON is supported: Consult Broforce's official dedicated server documentation or community resources to confirm if RCON functionality is built into the server application.
Configure RCON: If supported, there will likely be settings in your server.cfg (or similar) to enable RCON, set an RCON password, and specify a port.
Use an RCON client: You would then use a generic RCON client application (many are available for various games) or a web-based RCON panel, providing your server's IP, RCON port, and RCON password to connect and issue commands.
If Broforce does not natively support RCON, remote administration would be limited to direct interaction with the server's console via SSH and screen/tmux.
Q5: How can I backup my Broforce server configuration and game files?
A5: Regular backups are crucial for disaster recovery. You can back up your Broforce server files using standard Linux command-line tools:
Stop the server: It's best to stop the server before backing up to ensure file consistency.
screen -X -S broforce_server quit
Create a compressed archive: Navigate to the parent directory of your Broforce server installation (e.g., /home/steam/) and create a tarball.
cd /home/steam/
tar -czvf broforce_server_backup_$(date +%Y%m%d).tar.gz broforce_server/
This command creates a gzipped tar archive named broforce_server_backup_YYYYMMDD.tar.gz containing your entire broforce_server directory.
Transfer the backup off-site: The most critical step is to transfer this backup file to a separate location, such as:
Cloud storage: Using scp or rsync to another server, or cloud storage solutions like S3, Google Cloud Storage, or Dropbox (via command-line tools).
Local machine: Download the backup file to your personal computer using scp or an SFTP client (like FileZilla).
You can automate this process using cron to schedule regular backups. Remember to only back up essential configuration files and unique data (like custom maps or server logs if desired), as the core game files can always be re-downloaded via SteamCMD.
Q6: My server is showing "VAC Secure" in the game browser. What does this mean?
A6: "VAC Secure" indicates that your Broforce server is running with Valve Anti-Cheat (VAC) enabled. This is generally a good thing, as it helps deter cheaters by banning them from VAC-secured servers if they are detected using cheats. Most official and community servers run with VAC enabled to provide a fair play environment.