How to Install FiveM Server – Step by Step Complete Guide (2026)

If you want to create your own GTA V roleplay server, this guide will help you understand how to install FiveM server step by step. Even beginners can easily set up a FiveM server by following this tutorial.

This guide is suitable for Windows VPS, PC, or Dedicated Server users.

What is a FiveM Server?

FiveM is a multiplayer modification framework for GTA V that allows you to create custom servers with scripts, mods, and roleplay features. With your own FiveM server, you can run RP servers, PvP servers, drift servers, or freeroam servers.

Requirements to Install FiveM Server

Before starting, make sure you have the following:

✔️ Legal copy of GTA V

✔️ Windows PC or VPS (Windows Server recommended)

✔️ Minimum 4GB RAM (8GB recommended)

✔️ Stable Internet connection

✔️ Basic knowledge of folders & files

How to Install FiveM Server (Step by Step)

Step 1: Download FiveM Server Files

Go to the official FiveM server download page
Download the Windows Server Artifact
Extract the ZIP file using WinRAR or 7-Zip

Create a new folder named:


FiveM Server

Step 2: Create Server Data Folder

Inside your FiveM Server folder:

Create a new folder named:


server-data

Open the extracted FXServer folder
Copy all files and paste them into server-data

Step 3: Create server.cfg File

Inside server-data, create a new text file and rename it to:


server.cfg

Now open it and paste this basic configuration:


sv_hostname "My First FiveM Server"
sv_maxclients 32
set steam_webApiKey "YOUR_STEAM_API_KEY"
sv_licenseKey "YOUR_FIVEM_LICENSE_KEY"

ensure mapmanager
ensure chat
ensure spawnmanager
ensure sessionmanager
ensure basic-gamemode
ensure hardcap
ensure rconlog

💡 You can customize the server name later.

Step 4: Get FiveM License Key

Visit the official FiveM Keymaster site
Login with your Cfx.re account
Generate a Server License Key
Copy the key and paste it into server.cfg


sv_licenseKey "PASTE_KEY_HERE"

Step 5: Add a Database (Optional but Recommended)

For RP servers:

Install XAMPP
Start Apache & MySQL
Create a database in phpMyAdmin

Most frameworks like ESX or QBCore require a database.

Step 6: Start FiveM Server

Go to your server folder
Run:


FXServer.exe

The console will open
If everything is correct, your server will start successfully 🎉

How to Connect to Your FiveM Server

Open FiveM
Press F8
Type:


connect localhost

Or use your public IP address if hosted on VPS.

Common Errors & Fixes

Server Not Starting?

✔️ Check server.cfg spelling
✔️ Make sure license key is correct
✔️ Run server as Administrator

Server Not Showing in List?

✔️ Port 30120 must be open
✔️ Firewall should allow FXServer

Best Frameworks for FiveM Server

🔹 ESX – Best for Roleplay

🔹 QBCore – Modern & optimized

🔹 VRP – Lightweight framework

Video -

Conclusion

Now you know how to install FiveM server step by step without any confusion. This setup works for Windows PC, VPS, and dedicated servers. After installation, you can add maps, scripts, MLOs, and vehicles to make your server unique.

If you are planning to start a professional FiveM RP server, this is the first and most important step.

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