Killing Floor dedicated server setup (KF1)
If you want a private place for friends, a consistent map rotation, or a stable long-term server, a dedicated server is the cleanest option.
This guide is intentionally practical and conservative: it explains the typical approach and common pitfalls without pretending there is “one magic config”.
Before you start (quick reality check)
You need:
- A legal game client (Steam).
- A machine to host (PC, VPS, or a spare computer). Hosting on the same PC you play on works for small groups, but is less stable.
- Basic access to router/firewall settings if players will join from outside your network.
If you do not want to host, you can simply join an existing community network:
Dedicated vs “just host a match”
People mix these up:
- Dedicated server: always-on server process, stable settings, better for regular play.
- Listen server / quick host: one player hosts while playing; easier but can be unstable and requires the host to be online.
If your goal is “we play every week”, dedicated is worth it.
The configuration mindset (what actually matters)
For a stable KF1 server, focus on:
- a fixed game port (do not leave it random)
- a simple map list (start small, add maps later)
- a clean package/cache policy (avoid mixing content from many sources too early)
- clear rules (password for private servers, and no random admin mods)
Where settings live (high-level)
KF1 is built on Unreal Engine, so server behavior is controlled by .ini configs. The exact files and keys depend on how you install the server, but you will typically edit:
- server port and networking
- map rotation / map list
- game rules and difficulty
- any mutators/modes you enable
Because installation layouts differ, the safest path is:
- Install the server component (Steam tools or a server package you trust).
- Launch once to generate default configs.
- Edit configs, then restart the server cleanly.
Networking: the part that breaks hosting most often
If people cannot join from outside your home network, it is almost always NAT/firewall/ports.
Use the dedicated ports guide:
Security and stability tips (simple but important)
- Do not expose admin credentials publicly.
- Keep it passworded if it is a friends-only server.
- Add custom maps gradually (one pack at a time), test, then expand.
- If players get mismatch errors, the fastest fix is usually client cache cleanup:
Mini scenario (realistic)
Four friends want weekly co-op without random players. One person hosts a dedicated server on a spare PC with a password and a small map rotation. The first evening is mostly ports and firewall, the second evening is smooth and repeatable.
Related help
- Optimize clients to reduce re-downloads: Optimization (INI, cache)
- Full server feature wiki (if you want to compare with community networks): Server Information