Project Zomboid: RCON Administration
RCON (Remote Console) allows admins to execute server commands without being logged into the game. It is essential for managing bans, broadcasting messages, and saving the world remotely.
1. The Port
The RCON port is usually Game Port + 1. If your server runs on 16261, RCON is on 16262.
2. The Tool
The in-game console is limited. We recommend external tools like ZomboidRCON or BattleMetrics.
3. The Password
You MUST set an RCONPassword in your server ini file. Without it, RCON is disabled for security.
How to Configure RCON
- Stop the Server.
- Open File Manager -> `servertest.ini` (or your config name).
- Find the line:
RCONPassword=. - Set a strong password. using `admin` or blank is insecure.
- Find the line:
RCONPort=. Verify it is set (Default 16262). - Save and Restart.
Connecting with ZomboidRCON
- Download ZomboidRCON from GitHub.
- Click Settings -> New Connection.
- IP: Your Server IP.
- Port: Your RCON Port (e.g., 16262).
- Password: The one you set in the INI.
- Click Connect.
Essential Commands
Once connected, you can type these into the console:
servermsg "Hello World"- Broadcasts a message to all players.save- Forces a map save immediately.quit- Safely shuts down the server.players- Lists all connected users.kick "username" -r "Reason"- Kicks a player.
Troubleshooting: If RCON fails to connect, ensure your firewall is allowing traffic on the RCON port (TCP), not just the Game port (UDP).
Before you expose RCON to the internet, be clear about what you are trading. The game's own description of RCONPassword is "RCON password (Pick a strong password)", and anyone who reaches the port with it can run whatever an admin can. Server visibility and RCON covers which settings decide whether people can find your server, and why the RCON port is not one of them.
Command authority. Host your Project Zomboid server with Supercraft and use our integrated web-console so you don't even need RCON tools.