If you want to build a game server, you generally have a number of different options available to you. The two main methods are to use a computer connected to your home or business Internet connection, or to use a data center. A game server running in your home or business can use an additional computer you already own or you can build one from scratch. If you build a game server from scratch, you generally need everything any other computer needs except a graphics card. When you use a data center, you can put up your own machine, use a managed hosting service, or rent a dedicated server.
Server racks.
The most cost-effective way to build a game server is to use a computer or components that you already own. Start by checking with the publisher of the game in question for system requirements. If information is missing, you can refer to others who are already running the servers successfully. In some cases, an older computer that you no longer use may be able to run the server, although some components may need to be upgraded. It’s also quite common for publishers to provide a Linux binary of the game server files, so you can save some money by not paying for an operating system (OS) for the server box.
A central processing unit.
If you don’t already have computers or components, you’ll need to buy parts. To build a game server that works out of your home, you’ll generally just want to buy a regular cabinet or mini-tower. You’ll also need components like the motherboard, central processing unit (CPU), random access memory (RAM), and hard drive. A game server does not require a graphics card, although you may need to install one if you don’t know how to operate a computer remotely.
Another option when building a game server is to place it in a data center. When building a server case for this purpose, you will typically need to use a case that can be rack mounted. Since you will normally only interact with the server remotely, a graphics card is not necessary. All other typical computer components are still required.
Instead of building your own server and placing it in a colocation data center, you can choose to use managed or dedicated server hosting. If you do, you can usually install the game server binaries on a machine that someone else is responsible for building and maintaining. An easier option is to rent a dedicated game server. Most game service providers (GSPs) offer dedicated monthly rentals, provisioned according to the number of players you’d like to host at one time.
