If you want to start a FiveM server for Grand Theft Auto V, the process is much simpler than most people expect. FiveM is a multiplayer modification framework for GTA V that allows you to run your own custom server with scripts, vehicles, maps, and roleplay frameworks. With the right setup, you can have a basic server running in under an hour.
First, make sure you have a legitimate copy of Grand Theft Auto V installed on your PC. FiveM requires this to run. You’ll also need a Windows 10 or Windows 11 machine (this is the most common setup), a stable internet connection, and about 5 to 10 GB of free disk space. If you plan to host the server from home, you’ll need access to your router settings for port forwarding.
Start by downloading the FiveM server files, also known as FXServer artifacts, from the official FiveM website. Create a new folder somewhere easy to access, such as C:\FXServer, and extract all the downloaded files into that folder. This will be your main server directory.
Next, you need a server license key. Go to the FiveM Keymaster website and log in using your Rockstar Social Club account. Create a new server key and copy it. You’ll place this key inside your configuration file in the next step.
Inside your FXServer folder, create a new text file and name it server.cfg. Open it with a text editor like Notepad and add basic configuration settings. You’ll define your server name, maximum player count, and the default port (30120). Most importantly, paste your license key where it says sv_licenseKey. Save the file when you’re done.
Now it’s time to start the server. Open the FXServer folder, hold Shift and right-click in an empty area, then choose “Open PowerShell window here” or “Open Command Prompt here.” Type the command to run FXServer with the server.cfg file. If everything is set up correctly, the console will show that the server has started successfully.
If you are hosting the server from your home PC and want friends to join, you’ll need to forward port 30120 for both TCP and UDP in your router settings. You’ll forward the port to your computer’s local IP address. If you’re using a VPS instead, simply open port 30120 in the firewall settings of your hosting provider.
To connect to your server, open FiveM on your PC. Press F8 to open the console and type “connect localhost” if you’re testing on the same machine. If connecting from another computer, use your public IP address instead of localhost.
Once your server is running, you can begin customizing it. Most servers use frameworks like ESX or QBCore for roleplay features, but you can also add standalone scripts for jobs, vehicles, maps, or game modes. To add scripts, create a folder called resources inside your FXServer directory. Place each script inside its own folder there, then add a line in your server.cfg file that says ensure followed by the script folder name. Restart the server after adding new resources.
From here, you can decide what type of server you want to build. Some people create serious roleplay communities with custom jobs and economies. Others build racing servers, drift servers, or casual fun servers with mini-games and custom content. The direction you take depends on your goals and how much time you want to invest.