Avid computer gamers love the ability to be able to play games at all times. However, if a home computer has multiple users, taking turns may be a problem. Hence, a game server box would be a necessity, especially if it will function as a multi-player gaming machine, allowing multiple users accessing the same game without having the need to wait for their turn. Building a game server can also be a good way to entertain your friends a family for a round of games during gatherings.
Things You'll Need
- Spare PC
- High-speed Internet connection
- Multi-port switch or router
- Game software
- Game client software
- Firewall
- Anti-virus software
Instructions
- 1
Choose a spare computer that has a robust operating system. Windows 2000 Professional or Windows XP would be preferable; however, even Windows 95 or 98 will sometimes do the job. Check that your computer has the minimum requirements needed for it to work as a gaming server. Use at least 384MB RAM (Random Access Memory) to prevent performance drop. Use a processor that would match how many users would access the game server; for up to 8 players, use a minimum of 933 MHz, 9 to 16 players use 1.6 GHz, 17 to 32 players use 2.4 GHz, and more than 32 use 3.0 GHz.
- 2
Use a high-speed network. Avoid wireless connection, as much as possible, to prevent drops. Use a multi-port switch or router to accommodate multiple players.
- 3
Configure a firewall in order to prevent intrusions and hacking. There are personal firewalls you can get for a minimal fee. Install this using the downloaded software or installation CD.
- 4
Add anti-virus software to protect your server against viral and malicious codes attacks. This will prevent any problems with the software, operating system and hardware.
- 5
Install the game software. You can buy or get PC games free to save money. Check the links under Resources for more information.
- 6
Install each game's client software license. You would need to acquire one license for each person who will be playing concurrently. Install each license on each PC, which will connect to the gaming server via the LAN (Local Area Network). You may need to pay a fee per license unit.
- 7
Configure the installed game as a server. This configuration may differ from game to game. For example, in some games you can launch it from the "Start Menu," under "EA Games/Name of Game Server/Run Dedicated Server." When the server launches, you can then proceed with your configuration.
- 8
Go into the "General" tab and assign a password for access to the server. Go to the bottom of this tab and choose whether to grant access to connections the internet or just within the same LAN (Local Area Network) using local IP addresses.
- 9
Set up your bandwidth limitations. This can prevent any potential issue on bandwidth. Estimate each player's bandwidth needs in order to prevent interruptions and lags. Keep it at an average of 80 Kbps, as much as possible.
- 10
Customize each game based on each game's specifications. For example, you can configure the level of difficulty from easy level, medium level and difficult level. Some games may require maps, such as those in race games; and some may require weapon set-up, such as those in war games.
- 11
Customize the number of players allowed. Configure for single, double or team-up. You can also configure to allow players to battle each other whether individually or as a team against another team. Consult your specific game's manual for additional information and requirements.
- 12
Save configuration and test the game server. Ask a few groups of friends to test out your game server. Make adjustments as needed.
Tips & Warnings
- Each game may require a different configuration each. Consult the owner's manual for more in depth specifications.
- Avoid using bootleg gaming CD or any illegally obtained CD. Check the requirements for operator's licensing if you want to run this server for business purposes or if you will charge your players.
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