Technology

How to Host a Pavlov Server from Your PC

March 15, 2025

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Pavlov VR is a highly immersive multiplayer first-person shooter known for its fast-paced gameplay, mod support, and community-driven content. Hosting your own Pavlov server provides several benefits, including complete control over game settings, reduced latency for local players, and the ability to create private or public matches.

Many players rely on official or third-party servers, but running your own dedicated server from your PC allows you to customize the experience according to your preferences. This guide will walk you through the step-by-step process of setting up, configuring, and managing a Pavlov server.

System Requirements

Before setting up a Pavlov server, it is essential to ensure your PC meets the required specifications for smooth performance.

Minimum System Requirements:

Operating System: Windows 10 or later
Processor: Intel Core i5-2500K or AMD FX-8350
RAM: 8GB
Storage: At least 20GB of free space
Internet: Stable broadband connection with at least 5 Mbps upload speed

Recommended System Requirements:

Operating System: Windows 11 or a dedicated Linux server
Processor: Intel Core i7-8700K or AMD Ryzen 5 3600
RAM: 16GB or more
Storage: SSD with 50GB of free space
Internet: 10 Mbps upload speed or higher

Having a powerful system ensures a stable server with minimal lag, especially when hosting multiple players.

Downloading and Installing the Pavlov Server

Step 1: Install SteamCMD

SteamCMD is a command-line tool used to install and update Steam-based dedicated servers. Follow these steps:

Download SteamCMD from the official Valve website.
Extract the contents to a dedicated folder (e.g., C:\SteamCMD).
Open Command Prompt and navigate to the SteamCMD directory using: shCopyEditcd C:\SteamCMD
Run SteamCMD by typing: shCopyEditsteamcmd.exe

Step 2: Install Pavlov Server Files

Login to SteamCMD anonymously: shCopyEditlogin anonymous
Set the install directory for Pavlov: shCopyEditforce_install_dir C:\PavlovServer
Install the Pavlov server using: shCopyEditapp_update 622970 validate
Once installed, exit SteamCMD by typing quit.

Configuring the Pavlov Server

After installing the server files, you need to configure settings according to your preferences.

Step 1: Locate Configuration Files

Navigate to the Pavlov server directory (C:\PavlovServer).
Open the PavlovServer folder and locate ServerConfig.json.

Step 2: Modify Server Settings

Open ServerConfig.json in a text editor and adjust the following settings:

Server Name: Set a unique name for your server.
Game Mode: Choose from TDM, Deathmatch, Search and Destroy, etc.
Map Rotation: Add custom or default maps.
Max Players: Set player capacity (default is 10).
Friendly Fire: Enable or disable.

Example configuration:

jsonCopyEdit{
  "ServerName": "My Pavlov Server",
  "GameMode": "TDM",
  "MaxPlayers": 10,
  "Maps": ["sand", "bridge"],
  "FriendlyFire": false
}

Save the file after making changes.

Port Forwarding and Network Setup

To allow external players to connect, you need to open ports on your router.

Step 1: Identify Required Ports

Game Port: 7777 (UDP)
Query Port: 27015 (UDP)
RCON Port (for remote management): 9100 (TCP)

Step 2: Configure Router Settings

Open your router’s admin panel (192.168.1.1 in most cases).
Locate the Port Forwarding section.
Add new port forwarding rules:
- Protocol: UDP
- Internal & External Ports: 7777, 27015
- IP Address: Your PC’s local IP (ipconfig in Command Prompt)
Save settings and restart the router.

Step 3: Test Open Ports

Use an online port checker to ensure ports are correctly forwarded.

Running and Managing the Server

Starting the Server

Open Command Prompt and navigate to C:\PavlovServer.
Run the following command to start the server: shCopyEditPavlovServer.exe
The terminal will display logs indicating that the server is running.

Managing Players

You can manage players using admin commands:

Kick a player: shCopyEditkick "playername"
Ban a player: shCopyEditban "playername"
Change map: shCopyEditchangelevel "mapname"

Making Your Server Public or Private

Setting Up a Private Server

To create a private server, add a password to ServerConfig.json:

jsonCopyEdit{
  "Password": "mypassword"
}

Only players with the password can join.

Registering a Public Server

To make your server appear in Pavlov’s server list, ensure:

Port forwarding is correctly set.
The bPublic setting in ServerConfig.json is set to true.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

1. Server Not Appearing in the List

Check if ports are properly forwarded.
Verify that the server is running without errors.

2. High Ping or Lag

Use a wired internet connection instead of Wi-Fi.
Reduce the maximum number of players.

3. Server Crashes Frequently

Ensure your PC meets recommended system requirements.
Keep Pavlov Server updated using SteamCMD.

Also Read About: How Is a Security Infraction Different from a Security Violation?

FAQs

1. Can I host a Pavlov server on Linux?

Yes, but you will need to use Wine or a dedicated Linux server setup with SteamCMD.

2. How many players can join my server?

The default is 10 players, but you can increase this based on your hardware capability.

3. Is port forwarding required?

Yes, port forwarding allows external players to connect to your server.

4. Can I run a Pavlov server on a VPS?

Yes, many VPS providers support hosting game servers. Ensure you have root access to configure the required settings.

5. How do I enable mods and custom maps?

Upload custom maps to the Maps folder and list them in ServerConfig.json. Mods can be enabled through the Steam Workshop.

Conclusion

Setting up a Pavlov server on your PC provides a customized multiplayer experience with full control over game modes, maps, and player interactions. By following this guide, you can successfully install, configure, and manage your own server. Whether you prefer private matches with friends or hosting a public community, running your own server enhances the gameplay experience.

For further support, join the Pavlov VR Community Discord or check the official Steam forums for troubleshooting tips and updates.