Quick Guide: How to Start a FiveM Server in 2026

Starting a FiveM server gives you total control over your own GTA V universe. Whether you're building a strict roleplay city or a freeroam drift server, getting the foundation right is critical. This guide will walk you through launching a server from scratch.

Step 1: Secure the Right Hardware (VPS)

Do not run a public FiveM server from your home computer. It exposes your home IP address to DDoS attacks and your internet connection will struggle to sync 30+ players.

You need a VPS (Virtual Private Server).

• Windows vs Linux: For beginners, Windows is highly recommended because you can use Remote Desktop (RDP) to view the server exactly like a normal PC.
• Specs: FiveM servers are heavily dependent on single-core CPU performance. Look for hosts using high-clock speed processors.

Step 2: Download the Server Artifacts

Once you are logged into your VPS via Remote Desktop:

1. Open a browser and navigate to the official Cfx.re Artifacts page.
2. Always download the version marked with a green Recommended tag. Avoid "Latest" unless you are fixing a specific bug, as they can be unstable.
3. Create a folder on your C:\ drive named FXServer.
4. Open the downloaded .zip file and extract all contents directly into C:\FXServer.

Step 3: Launching txAdmin

txAdmin is the official management panel built directly into FiveM. It makes setting up and controlling your server incredibly easy.

1. Navigate to your C:\FXServer folder and double-click FXServer.exe.
2. A black command prompt window will open, and shortly after, a web browser will pop up.
3. The command prompt will display a 4-digit PIN. Type this PIN into the browser window to link your master account.
4. Set a strong password for your txAdmin account. This is the master key to your server.

Step 4: The txAdmin Setup Wizard

Once logged into txAdmin, it will ask you how you want to configure your server.

Using a Deployment Recipe

If you want an instant server with scripts pre-installed (like jobs, cars, and economy), you should use a recipe.

1. Select Popular Recipes.
2. Choose QBCore Framework (Recommended for 2026) or ESX Legacy.
3. txAdmin will ask for a Data Path. Just let it use the default folder it suggests.

Step 5: Setting Up the Database

Roleplay frameworks require a database to save player data.

1. Download and install MariaDB (not XAMPP, as standalone MariaDB performs better).
2. During installation, set a strong root password.
3. txAdmin will ask for your database credentials during the recipe deployment. Enter root and your password. txAdmin will automatically create the database and run all the necessary SQL files for you!

Step 6: Obtaining a License Key

FiveM requires all servers to be registered with a license key.

1. Go to keymaster.fivem.net.
2. Log in with your Cfx.re forum account.
3. Click Register a new server.
4. Enter your VPS IP address and a short description.
5. Copy the generated Key.
6. Paste the key into the txAdmin setup wizard when prompted.

Step 7: Go Live!

txAdmin will finish downloading the recipe and automatically start your server.

To join:

1. Open FiveM on your personal PC.
2. Press F8 to open the console.
3. Type connect YOUR_VPS_IP and press Enter.

Congratulations, your server is now live! From here, you can start modifying your server.cfg and adding custom vehicles.