Managing DayZ Server Mods

Transform your DayZ server with mods using our seamless Steam Workshop integration. This guide explains how to install and manage DayZ mods, why we chose Steam Workshop, and best practices for server customization.

Understanding DayZ Mod Management

DayZ has a thriving modding community with thousands of mods available on Steam Workshop. From quality-of-life improvements to complete gameplay overhauls, mods can dramatically enhance your server's unique identity.

Why Steam Workshop Integration?

We integrated directly with Steam Workshop for several critical reasons:

Benefits of Steam Workshop Integration

• One-Click Installation: Add mods using just the Workshop ID - no manual downloads
• Automatic Updates: Mods stay current with the latest DayZ patches automatically
• Dependency Resolution: Steam Workshop handles mod dependencies for you
• No Storage Limits: Install as many compatible mods as your server can handle
• Easy Discovery: Browse thousands of mods directly on Steam Workshop
• Community Vetted: See ratings, comments, and compatibility notes from other server owners
• Instant Removal: Remove mods by deleting their Workshop ID from your server settings
• Client Compatibility: Players automatically download required mods when joining

How Steam Workshop Integration Works

Installation Process

When you add a Workshop ID to your server configuration:

1. Steam Login: Server authenticates with Steam using anonymous login or your credentials
2. Download: SteamCMD downloads the mod directly from Steam Workshop
3. Installation: Mod files are placed in the correct directories automatically
4. Server Configuration: Server startup parameters are updated to load the mod
5. Client Notification: Joining players are notified of required mods

Mod Loading Order

DayZ loads mods in the order specified in your configuration. This matters for mods that modify the same content:

• Base Mods First: Framework mods (DayZ-Expansion, CF) should load before dependent mods
• Content Mods: Weapon packs, vehicles, and clothing mods load after frameworks
• Overrides Last: Mods that modify base game files should load last

Finding and Installing Mods

Step 1: Browsing Steam Workshop

Find DayZ mods on Steam Workshop:

1. Open Steam client or visit Steam Workshop - DayZ
2. Use search filters: Most Popular, Most Subscribed, Recent
3. Read mod descriptions for compatibility information
4. Check ratings and comments for quality feedback
5. Look for "Server-Side" tag for server-only mods

Step 2: Getting Workshop IDs

Every Steam Workshop mod has a unique ID number:

Method 1: From Workshop Page URL

Workshop URL: https://steamcommunity.com/sharedfiles/filedetails/?id=1559212036
Workshop ID: 1559212036

The ID is the number after "?id=" in the URL

Method 2: From Mod Subscribe Button

1. Click "Subscribe" on the mod page
2. Right-click the mod in your Steam Workshop subscriptions
3. Select "Copy Page URL"
4. Extract the ID number from the URL

Step 3: Installing via OCN Panel

There are three ways to add mods to your DayZ server:

Method 1: Using Modlist File (Recommended for Beginners)

1. Open DayZ Launcher on your PC
2. Create your mod collection in the launcher
3. Export the modlist: Click "Export" and save as HTML file
4. Upload the modlist.html file to your server's root directory via Files tab
5. In the Startup tab, find "Modlist File" variable
6. Enter the filename: modlist.html
7. Restart server - mods will auto-download and load

Method 2: Additional Mods (Manual Workshop IDs)

1. Log into your OCN Panel at panel.ocnetworks.co.uk
2. Navigate to your DayZ server and click Startup tab
3. Find the "Additional Mods" variable
4. Enter Workshop IDs in @workshopID format, separated by semicolons
5. Example: @1559212036;@2116151222;@1565871491
6. Click Restart Server to download and load mods
7. Monitor the console for download progress

Additional Mods field for manually uploaded mods or Workshop IDs

Method 3: Server-Side Only Mods

1. In the Startup tab, find "Server-Side Only Mods" variable
2. Enter Workshop IDs for mods that only run server-side (admin tools, etc.)
3. Format: @1559212036;@2143128974 (semicolon-separated)
4. These mods don't require clients to download if "Verify Signatures" is ON
5. Restart server to apply changes

[Advanced] Server-Side Only Mods field for admin tools and server-only modifications

Step 4: Configure Mod Settings

Automatic Updates (Startup Tab):

• Set to 1 (ON) to automatically update mods and server on restart
• Set to 0 (OFF) to disable automatic updates (manual control)
• Recommended: Keep ON for seamless mod updates

Verify Signatures (Startup Tab):

• Set to 2 (ON) - Clients must have exact same mod versions as server
• Set to 0 (OFF) - Allows clients without mods to join (not recommended)
• Server-side only mods bypass this check when set to 2

Step 5: Verify Installation

1. Check server console for "Loading mod: ModName" messages
2. Go to Files tab and look for mod folders in root directory
3. Verify mod folders exist (named @workshopID or custom names)
4. Join your server and check if mod content appears in-game
5. Use F11 debug menu to see loaded mods list

Popular DayZ Mods to Try

Essential Framework Mods

DayZ-Expansion (Workshop ID: 2116151222)

• Type: Core framework and content expansion
• Features: Base building, helicopters, missions, trader system
• Compatibility: Required by many other mods
• Player Base: Most popular DayZ mod framework
• Note: Install this before expansion-dependent mods

Community Framework (CF) (Workshop ID: 1559212036)

• Type: Developer framework
• Features: Core utilities for mod development
• Compatibility: Required by many advanced mods
• Player Base: Standard for modded servers
• Note: Load this first if using CF-dependent mods

Content Expansion Mods

Weapons & Combat

• Mass'sManyItemOverhaul: Hundreds of new weapons, attachments, and equipment
• Advanced Weapon Scopes: Realistic weapon optics and ballistics
• MunghardsItempack: Modern military weapons and gear
• KA Weapons: High-quality weapon models and animations

Vehicles & Transport

• Expansion Vehicles: Helicopters, boats, and advanced ground vehicles
• Car Expansion: Additional civilian and military vehicles
• Kart Krew Racing: Go-karts and racing content
• Helicopters: Various flyable helicopter models

Base Building & Crafting

• BuildAnywhere: Remove building restrictions
• BaseBuildingPlus (BBP): Expanded building pieces and options
• Code Lock: Secure bases with combination locks
• Advanced Groups: Group management and permissions

Quality of Life Mods

UI & Interface

• DayZ Editor: In-game map editor for admins
• Trader: NPC trading system
• Party Me: Enhanced group/party system
• DNA Keycards: Electronic access control

Gameplay Enhancement

• Stamina Overhaul: Improved stamina system
• Medical Attention: Realistic medical mechanics
• Bed Respawning: Set custom spawn points
• Vehicle Covers: Hide vehicles with camo netting

Server Management & Admin Tools

• VPPAdminTools: Comprehensive admin menu and tools
• Community Online Tools (COT): Server management utilities
• Dabs Framework: Advanced admin capabilities
• Server Information Panel: Display server rules and info

Mod Configuration

Server-Side Configuration Files

Many mods create configuration files in your server directory:

/mpmissions/dayzOffline.chernarusplus/
/profiles/ExpansionMod/Settings/
/profiles/VPPAdminTools/
/profiles/CF/

Editing Mod Configs via Pelican

1. Go to Files tab in Pelican panel
2. Navigate to the mod's config directory
3. Click on .json or .xml config files to edit
4. Make your changes (JSON format is strict - validate syntax)
5. Click Save File
6. Restart server to apply changes

Common Configuration Examples

DayZ-Expansion Trader Settings

{
    "TraderEnabled": 1,
    "TraderCurrencyName": "Rubles",
    "ATMPlayerTransferEnabled": 1,
    "ATMMaxDepositMoney": 100000000
}

Base Building Restrictions

{
    "AllowBuildAnywhere": true,
    "MaxBuildHeight": 50,
    "RestrictedZones": []
}

Managing Mod Load Order

Understanding Mod Dependencies

Some mods require other mods to function. Common dependency chains:

Framework Mods (load first):
1. Community Framework (CF)
2. DayZ-Expansion Core

Dependent Mods (load after frameworks):
3. Expansion Vehicles
4. Expansion Base Building
5. Expansion Missions

Content Mods (load last):
6. Weapon packs
7. Clothing mods
8. Custom items

Setting Load Order in Pelican

List Workshop IDs in the order you want mods to load:

Workshop Mod IDs: 1559212036;2116151222;2291785308;1565871491

This loads:
1. Community Framework (1559212036)
2. DayZ-Expansion (2116151222)
3. Expansion Vehicles (2291785308)
4. Trader Mod (1565871491)

Troubleshooting Mod Issues

Mods Won't Download

• Check Workshop ID: Verify the ID is correct (numbers only, no URLs)
• Steam Authentication: Ensure server has Steam access (check console for errors)
• Workshop Status: Check if mod is still available on Workshop (not removed by author)
• Disk Space: Ensure server has enough free space for mod downloads
• Network Issues: Check server console for connection errors to Steam

Server Won't Start After Adding Mods

• Mod Compatibility: Check mod Workshop pages for DayZ version compatibility
• Conflicting Mods: Some mods modify the same files and conflict
• Missing Dependencies: Install required framework mods first (CF, Expansion Core)
• Load Order: Ensure framework mods load before dependent mods
• Corrupted Download: Remove mod ID, restart, then re-add to force re-download

Mods Not Loading In-Game

• Verify Console: Check for "Loading mod: ModName" messages in server console
• Client Mods: Some mods require players to subscribe on Steam Workshop
• Server Restart: Always restart server after changing mod configuration
• File Permissions: Ensure server has read/write access to mod directories
• Mod Keys: Check /keys/ folder for mod .bikey files
• Case Sensitivity: Linux servers are case-sensitive - use "Make Mod Files Lowercase" repair option

Fixing Case-Sensitive File Issues

If mods copied from Windows show errors about missing files:

1. Go to Startup tab in OCN Panel
2. Find "[Repair] Make Mod Files Lowercase" variable
3. Set to 1 (ON)
4. Restart server once - all mod folders/files will be converted to lowercase
5. Set back to 0 (OFF) after one boot
6. This fixes Linux case-sensitivity issues with Windows-created mods

Performance Issues After Modding

• Resource Usage: Large mod collections need more RAM (8GB+ recommended)
• Entity Limits: Reduce max zombies/animals in serverDZ.cfg
• View Distance: Lower network bubble and view distance settings
• Mod Optimization: Remove unused mods to reduce server load
• Contact Support: We can help optimize server settings for heavy modding

Best Practices

Before Installing Mods

• Backup Your Server: Use Pelican's backup feature before major mod changes
• Read Mod Documentation: Check Workshop descriptions for requirements and known issues
• Test Compatibility: Research mod combinations in community forums
• Check Dependencies: Install required framework mods first
• Plan Server Theme: Choose mods that fit your server's playstyle (PvP, PvE, RP)

Mod Management

• Document Installed Mods: Keep a list of Workshop IDs and mod names
• Monitor Updates: Subscribe to mods on Steam to get update notifications
• Test Major Updates: When mods update, test before applying to live server
• Regular Backups: Backup before any mod changes
• Player Communication: Inform players before adding/removing mods (may require client re-download)

Performance Optimization

• Start Small: Add a few mods at a time to monitor performance impact
• Remove Unused: Uninstall mods you're not actively using
• Framework Overlap: Don't install multiple framework mods (choose CF or Expansion, not both)
• Monitor Server Load: Use Pelican's performance graphs
• Upgrade Resources: Heavy modding may require RAM/CPU upgrades

Popular Mod Combinations

PvE Survival Server

Add to "Additional Mods" field in Startup tab:

@1559212036;@2116151222;@2291785308;@2116157322;@1565871491;@1646187754

Mods included:

• @1559212036 - Community Framework
• @2116151222 - DayZ-Expansion Core
• @2291785308 - Expansion Vehicles
• @2116157322 - Expansion Base Building
• @1565871491 - Trader Mod
• @1646187754 - BuildAnywhere

PvP Combat Server

Add to "Additional Mods" field:

@1559212036;@1827326581;@1623711988;@2291785308;@1828439124;@2066825719

Mods included:

• @1559212036 - Community Framework
• @1827326581 - Mass'sManyItemOverhaul
• @1623711988 - Advanced Weapon Scopes
• @2291785308 - Expansion Vehicles
• @1828439124 - Medical Attention
• @2066825719 - Bed Respawning

Roleplay Server

Client Mods (Additional Mods):

@2116151222;@1565871491;@1646187754;@2127434089;@1832448183

Server-Side Only Mods:

@2143128974

Mods included:

• @2116151222 - DayZ-Expansion (full suite)
• @1565871491 - Trader System
• @1646187754 - BuildAnywhere
• @2127434089 - Advanced Groups
• @1832448183 - DNA Keycards
• @2143128974 - VPPAdminTools (server-side only)

Vanilla+ Server (Light Mods)

Add to "Additional Mods" field:

@1559212036;@2127434089;@2066825719;@1646187754;@1832448183

Mods included:

• @1559212036 - Community Framework
• @2127434089 - Advanced Groups
• @2066825719 - Bed Respawning
• @1646187754 - BuildAnywhere
• @1832448183 - Code Lock

Advanced Mod Management

Manual Mod Installation (Advanced Users)

For mods not on Workshop or custom mods:

1. Download mod files from external source
2. In OCN Panel Files tab, create folder in root directory: @modname (lowercase, no spaces!)
3. Upload mod files via file manager or SFTP
4. Go to Startup tab, find "Additional Mods" variable
5. Add your custom mod folder name: @modname
6. If adding multiple: @modname;@anothermods;@thirdmod (semicolon-separated)
7. Restart server

Creating Custom Mod Packs

1. Combine compatible mods into a server theme
2. Document all Workshop IDs and load order
3. Configure mod settings for balanced gameplay
4. Create server rules documentation for players
5. Test extensively before public release

Mod Resources

Finding Mods

• Steam Workshop: Official DayZ Workshop
• DayZ Forums: Modding discussions
• DayZ Mod Reddit: r/dayzservers for mod recommendations
• YouTube: Search "DayZ server mods" for showcase videos

Modding Communities

• DayZ Modding Discord: Official modding community
• Expansion Mod Discord: Support for DayZ-Expansion
• Server Owner Forums: Share experiences with other admins

Learning Resources

• DayZ Modding Wiki: Official documentation
• Enforce Script Tutorials: Learn DayZ scripting
• Community Guides: Workshop mod configuration tutorials

Why We Support Steam Workshop

Need Help?

Our support team has extensive DayZ modding experience:

• Live Chat: Available 24/7 in client area
• Email Support: support@ocnetworks.co.uk
• Discord Community: Join for mod recommendations
• Mod Setup Service: We can configure complex mod setups

Next Steps

Enhance your DayZ server further:

• Server Configuration: Optimize loot tables and gameplay settings
• Performance Tuning: Adjust resources for modded gameplay
• Community Building: Promote your modded server
• Custom Events: Create unique experiences with mods

Ready to Transform Your Server? Browse Steam Workshop, choose your mods, and follow this installation guide. Need mod recommendations? Contact our support team!