Choosing a reliable GMod server host is crucial for creating a smooth and enjoyable gaming experience for you and your players. However, many first-time server owners make common mistakes when selecting a host that can affect performance, gameplay, and overall server management. Let’s go over the most frequent mistakes people make when choosing GMod server hosting and share practical tips on how to avoid them.
Not Prioritising Server Performance
The Mistake: Many new server owners make the mistake of selecting a hosting plan based solely on price, ignoring the importance of server performance. GMod is a resource-intensive game, especially when hosting large servers with custom mods, so choosing a host with inadequate hardware can result in lag, crashes, and a poor gaming experience.
How to Avoid It: Always prioritize performance over cost. Look for a host that provides solid hardware specifications, including a powerful CPU, ample RAM, and enough bandwidth. The more players and custom content you have, the more resources your server will need. Investing in a host with high-performance servers ensures better uptime and a smoother gaming experience. Click on the link to enjoy easy setup for gmod server hosting.
Ignoring Mod and Customization Support
The Mistake: Since GMod is all about mods and custom content, selecting a host that doesn’t support easy mod management can be a huge mistake. Some hosting providers make mod installations complicated or even incompatible with certain popular GMod mods and add-ons.
How to Avoid It: Before committing to a host, check whether they offer easy mod support. Look for features like one-click mod installations, compatibility with popular mods, and an easy-to-use control panel for customization. Ideally, you want a host that allows you to manage mods, plugins, and game settings without requiring advanced technical skills.
Failing to Consider Scalability
The Mistake: Many server owners don’t think ahead when it comes to the growth of their server. While you might start with a small group of players, your server needs could quickly change as your community expands. Some hosts offer limited scalability, which can leave you stuck with a server that can’t handle an increase in players or resource demands.
How to Avoid It: Choose a hosting provider that offers scalable plans. Make sure they allow you to easily upgrade resources such as RAM, CPU, and storage as your server grows. A flexible plan will save you time and effort as you won’t need to migrate to a new host when your server gets more popular.
Not Considering Customer Support Quality
The Mistake: Customer support is often an overlooked factor when choosing a GMod server host. However, when things go wrong, fast and efficient support becomes essential. Some hosts offer poor customer service, leaving server owners to fend for themselves when problems arise.
How to Avoid It: Look for a host that offers 24/7 customer support through multiple channels (e.g., live chat, email, and phone). Check reviews or community forums for feedback on their customer service. The quicker you can resolve any issues, the less downtime your server will experience, keeping your players happy.
Underestimating Security Needs
The Mistake: Many new server owners don’t consider the security aspects of hosting a GMod server. DDoS attacks, data breaches, and server vulnerabilities are real threats that can disrupt gameplay and damage your reputation.
How to Avoid It: Ensure that your hosting provider offers strong security measures, such as DDoS protection, encryption, and regular backups. Some hosts even include additional security features like firewalls and vulnerability scanning. A secure server protects both your data and your players, reducing the risk of disruptions and attacks.
How to Select Your Server Hosting Plan
Understand the Plan Options
There are going to be several plans to choose from and they will be at various price points. Take a look at what they offer you and consider what your gaming needs are. Pay attention to elements such as RAM and the number of player slots. You want to ensure you’re purchasing one you’ll use to its fullest capacity.
Decide on a Dedicated IP
There are companies that are going to offer you the opportunity to get a dedicated IP. This is something that you want to think about if you’re worried about security. It can also lead to a faster and smoother experience. Indeed, you’re going to have more control over the server. The trade-off is that it’s likely to cost you more money.
Choose How You Want to Pay
Note that you can often choose your billing cycle. There are a lot of people who choose monthly bills if they want to keep the payments small. 
However, you’re always going to have the choice to pay annually, which ensures that you don’t miss any payments and it gives it over and done with. Therefore, think about your finances and what you can comfortably afford to pay. With some companies, you can save money with an annual plan.
Select the Number of Backup Slots
Another element to consider is the number of backup slots you want. The more slots you have, the more you’re going to pay. Consider the benefits of having multiple with your server. For instance, you can make sure that there are different restore points and you can keep all of your players happy. Plus, you don’t have to worry about glitches and crashes ruining your experience.
Conclusion
Avoiding these common mistakes when choosing your GMod server host will set you up for success. By focusing on performance, customization, scalability, and security, you can ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience for you and your players. Take your time to research and choose the right provider that fits your needs, and you’ll avoid costly mistakes down the road.
