Getting started with GTA V: FiveM

This guide walks you through setting up your GTA V: FiveM server on ServerPrism, from ordering and initial configuration to getting players connected. It's for anyone who has just ordered a FiveM server or is about to.

Before you start

To run a FiveM server, you need a CFX.re license key. You can generate one for free at keymaster.fivem.net. Keep this key handy, as you will need to enter it in your server's startup configuration.

Ordering on ServerPrism

1. Select GTA V: FiveM from the game list.
2. Choose your plan: We recommend at least 4 GB RAM for a basic server. For servers with many custom scripts, vehicles, or players, consider 8 GB or more, up to 16 GB. You can upgrade your plan anytime from your ServerPrism dashboard.
3. Pick a region closest to your players for the best performance.
4. Deploy your server.

First boot

After deployment, your server will start automatically. The first boot installs the necessary FiveM server files, including txAdmin. This process can take a few minutes. You can monitor the progress through the web console in your ServerPrism panel.

Your server is ready when you see messages indicating txAdmin is running and listening for connections, typically on port 40120 (for txAdmin) and 30120 (for game clients).

Connecting / inviting players

Players can connect to your FiveM server in a few ways:

• Direct Connect: Players open GTA V, launch FiveM, press F8 to open the console, and type connect [YOUR_SERVER_IP]:30120. Replace [YOUR_SERVER_IP] with your server's IP address, found in your ServerPrism panel.
• Server List: If your server is public, players can find it in the FiveM in-game server browser. Ensure your sv_master1 variable is set correctly (default is "", which makes it public).
• Invite Link: You can generate an invite link from txAdmin or your server's cfx_nui_url if configured.

For easier access, you can attach a free subdomain to your server from your ServerPrism dashboard.

Configuration basics

Most FiveM server configurations are managed through the server.cfg file, located in the root of your server directory (e.g., /home/container/server-data/server.cfg). You can edit this file directly using the File Manager in your ServerPrism panel.

Key settings you'll want to change:

• License Key: Set your CFX.re license key using sv_licenseKey "YOUR_LICENSE_KEY". This is crucial for your server to start.
• Server Name: Change sv_hostname "My FiveM Server" to your desired server name. This is what players see in the server list.
• Max Players: Adjust sv_maxClients 32 to set the maximum number of players. Be mindful of your server's RAM and CPU.
• Server Tags: Add tags for better visibility in the server browser: sets tags "default, roleplay, custom".
• Resource Start: To automatically start resources (scripts, maps), use ensure resource_name. For example, ensure essentialmode.
• RCON Password: Set an RCON password for remote administration: rcon_password "your_rcon_password".

Many of these values, including your license key, can also be set or overridden using the Startup Variables tab in your ServerPrism panel, which simplifies initial setup.

Common issues

• Server not showing in list / not starting: The most common cause is a missing or invalid sv_licenseKey. Double-check the key in your server.cfg or Startup Variables. Ensure it's correctly formatted with quotes.
• Players can't connect: Verify your server's IP address and port (30120) are correct. Check the web console for any error messages related to network binding or firewall issues.
• Specific resources not loading: Ensure the resource folder is correctly placed in your resources directory and that you have an ensure resource_name line in your server.cfg for each resource you want to start.
• txAdmin not accessible: By default, txAdmin runs on port 40120. Make sure you are accessing it via http://[YOUR_SERVER_IP]:40120 and that the server has fully started.

If you encounter persistent issues, check the server logs via the File Manager or web console. You can also open a support ticket at serverprism.com/tickets, providing your server ID and relevant log snippets.

Next steps

• Explore txAdmin: Your FiveM server includes txAdmin, a powerful web panel for managing resources, players, and server settings. Access it via http://[YOUR_SERVER_IP]:40120.
• Add Custom Resources: Browse the FiveM forums and communities for custom scripts, vehicles, and maps to enhance your server. Upload them via SFTP or the File Manager to your resources folder.
• Install Frameworks: Consider installing popular frameworks like ESX or vRP for roleplay servers. Follow their specific installation guides.
• Monitor Performance: Keep an eye on your server's resource usage in the ServerPrism panel. If you experience lag or crashes, consider upgrading your plan for more RAM or CPU resources.