The vast majority of multiplayer PC games make use of a client-host setup where both the players and the game are run on a single machine. While simple, this setup causes problems such as lag, long loading times, crashes, lost save files, and dropped connections. A dedicated server is an alternative hosting option that does not have these issues.
If you have already read about basic dedicated servers for gaming or wish to dive straight into customisation and control, skip ahead to that section.
Basically, What Is a Dedicated Server?
A gaming server is a computer that hosts online games for other people. These servers have the resources to keep games running smoothly by allowing your computer to use the server’s hardware. Whether you’re playing fantasy, first-person shooter, MMO, or RTS games, the server has enough processing power, memory, and storage to make the game run without lagging or crashing.
Below are just a few examples of games that have their own servers:
- 7 Days to Die
- Ark
- Arma
- Counter Strike Global Offensive
- DOTA 2
- Factorio
- Killing Floor
- Minecraft
- Ragnarok
- Rust
- Terraria
- Valheim
Servers are popular among companies that wish to create stable online game environments for their players. Some companies pay someone else to run their servers, while others run servers themselves. Individuals can also choose to set up a server and create a private online game environment. Servers can also run single-player games, though the conditions are a bit different in that regard.
What Are the Main Advantages of Having a Dedicated Gaming Server?
1. They Offer Lag-Free Performance
A dedicated server is a server that is not shared with any other users, giving it an advantage in terms of speed and reliability, which is beneficial for gaming. The server has unlimited resources, so you never have to worry about it recommending a lower quality setting to give you a better online experience.
If you are a gamer, you’ve probably experienced a lag spike in an online game at some point. Lag spikes tend to put a damper on your gaming experience as you are trying to maintain a clear line of sight on your enemies, or you are trying to land your shots. Lag spikes can also cause you to move around erratically, causing you to lose sight of your goal entirely. In multiplayer games, lag can make the entire game unplayable.
2. They Have Reliable Infrastructure
Dedicated game servers are monitored 24 hours a day, seven days a week, by special machines that ensure the servers are operational. Even if the grid back at our local data centre goes down, most data centres have backup generators that ensure that the game is always available.
The infrastructure that powers the game is also cooled constantly with a system similar to HVAC units in a large building. Despite all this, you do not have to worry about overheating when using a dedicated gaming server.
3. They Allow for High Levels of Customisation
Game admins define the hardware requirements for running the game, including the ideal processor, amount of RAM, and bandwidth speeds for an optimal gaming experience. Game admins are also allowed to edit the game rules, including character stats and traits, objectives, maps, and more. Admins can also restrict access to the game by locking it down with a password or opening it up to the public for anyone to join. Admins can also kick players out of the game for rule violations or increased latency.
Conclusion
Dedicated servers have many advantages, which is why most gaming companies use them for their games. You can also benefit from dedicated servers by hosting your own game and choosing who can join. This can be a great way to meet new people around the world while earning some extra money.
If you are looking for affordable dedicated servers in the UK, look no further than our innovative systems here at Binary Racks. We are a UK-based data hosting provider, and our data centres provide unmatched performance dedicated servers, virtual servers and colocation racks. Call us today for more information about our servers and our server plans.
