Project Zomboid: RCON
This guide was created with the following products:
(Details may vary with products from different providers but the main concepts remain the same)
Introduction
RCON (Remote Console) is a network protocol used to remotely control gameservers. It allows access to the server console without direct interaction with the server environment. This makes it possible to execute administrative commands, adjust configuration parameters, or retrieve server status information.
In Project Zomboid, RCON is used to execute server-side commands, such as managing players, changing gameplay settings, or accessing diagnostic outputs. The connection is protected by a password and operates over a specified port, accessible via compatible RCON clients.
A key advantage of RCON is that it enables server management without having to be connected to the game as a player. Server administrators can monitor and control Project Zomboid from external tools, command-line interfaces, or web dashboards, offering flexibility and convenience for remote operation.
Configuration
Before RCON can be used, it must be enabled and configured. This is done by editing the configuration file located under Configs in the gameserver management panel. In the file named servertest.ini, the following entries must be added or modified:
RCONPort=XXXXX
RCONPassword=define-your-password
The assigned RCON port can be found at the bottom of the settings page in the Port overview which must be specified there.
Connecting via RCON
To connect to the Project Zomboid server via RCON, the command-line tool rcon-cli is used. It can be downloaded from the official GitHub repository. After downloading and installing the tool on your computer, a connection can be established using the server’s IP address, RCON port, and RCON password.
The assigned port can be found in the Port overview at the bottom of the settings page in the gameserver administration. The password and port must match the values configured in the panel or configuration file. Use the following command to connect and directly execute a command:
rcon-cli -a <IP>:<PORT> -p <PASSWORD> command
RCON Commands
Once connected via RCON, various administrative and diagnostic commands can be executed on the Project Zomboid server. The available commands depend on the game engine but typically include actions for player management, status queries, and server control.
| Command | Description |
|---|---|
/grantadmin <username> | Grants admin rights to a player |
/removeadmin <username> | Revokes admin rights from a player |
/save | Manually saves the world |
/kickuser <username> | Kicks a player from the server |
/banuser <username> | Bans a player |
/unbanuser <username> | Unbans a player |
/adduser <username> <password> | Creates a new user with a password |
/godmod <username> | Toggles god mode for the specified user |
/teleport <Name1> <Name2> | Teleports Name1 to Name2 |
/chopper | Simulates a helicopter flyover |
Conclusion
RCON is a core tool for remote administration of Project Zomboid game servers. It enables fast and direct access to administrative functionality while offering access control through password authentication. Proper and secure configuration is critical to ensure server stability and to protect against unauthorized access.
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