Driver FixRecommendedSound, Wi-Fi or graphics acting up? Check drivers firstFind missing or outdated drivers fast.Check DriversHalloween DealsAmazon USHalloween week deals: useful picks before month-endAmazon US: current deals, useful picks and tech finds.Check DealsPC HealthRecommendedCrashes, freezes, slowdowns? Check your PC nowSpot repairable issues before they interrupt work.Check PC×
Skip to content
VGSources
Blog

Arma Reforger Server Startup Parameters Explained

A practical reference for Arma Reforger server startup parameters: choose between -config and -server, set network ports and FPS, load local or Workshop mods, and diagnose common launch failures.
Length10 min Posted Quest giverVGSources Team
Special offer. See more information about Outbyte and uninstall instructions. Please review EULA and Privacy policy.

Arma Reforger dedicated-server options are command-line parameters placed after ArmaReforgerServer.exe. For a normal hosted server, use -config to select a JSON configuration, then add focused overrides such as -maxFPS, -bindIP or -bindPort. The separate -server mode starts a local server with a selected world and ignores the JSON configuration entirely.

That distinction determines almost every other setting: public servers normally get networking and Workshop mods from JSON, while local tests can launch a world and local add-ons directly from the command line. Parameter names are case-insensitive, but JSON keys are case-sensitive. Quote any value containing spaces.

As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.

Special offer. See more information about Outbyte and uninstall instructions. Please review EULA and Privacy policy.

How Arma Reforger reads startup parameters

The executable reads options from left to right after its filename. A parameter consists of a name, usually preceded by a hyphen, followed by a value when the option requires one. For example, -maxFPS 60 sets a frame-rate ceiling, while -autoshutdown is a switch with no value.

Use quotation marks around paths, world names or other values containing spaces. The official dedicated-server example is:

#1 Best Overall
Sale
Gaoye Blue Light Blocking Glasses
  • BLUE LIGHT BLOCKING GLASSES: Our blue light glasses for women boast UV400 protection, blocking harmful blue rays from computer screens. With these bluelight glasses women, you can enjoy gaming, reading, or watching TV with no worries of eye strain.
  • EYE RELIEF: Our blue light glasses are engineered to reduce blurry vision or strain caused by prolonged screen time. These womens blue light glasses aid in better sleep by preventing blue light from disrupting your natural sleep cycle, helping you fall asleep faster and enjoy a more restful night's sleep, making them the perfect christmas present.
  • COMFORTABLE: Crafted from durable material, our trendy blue light glasses for woman or blue light glasses men ensure long-lasting comfort. The high-transmittance lenses accessories, gamer gifts for men, help keep your eyes relaxed. Perfect stocking stuffers, gifts for gamers men, christmas gifts for men, halloween costumes.
  • LIGHTWEIGHT: These clear blue light glasses feature a lightweight frame, meaning they’ll stay comfy for long-term wear. Perfect as blue blockers glasses for women or mens blue light glasses, these non-prescription fake glasses for men can be worn throughout the day. The blue light blocking glasses women feature polycarbonate HD lenses, which are anti-reflective and restore true color.
  • WORRY-FREE PURCHASE: If you experience any issues, our support team is ready to assist you quickly. These are the perfect costume glasses for cosplay dressing up.
ArmaReforgerServer.exe -config ".Configsu0000Campaign_SWCoast.json"

In a Windows command shell, the practical form is the same path with ordinary backslashes; the escaped characters above simply represent the literal backslashes in HTML. A complete launch line can combine the configuration with an operational override:

ArmaReforgerServer.exe -config ".Configsu0000Campaign_SWCoast.json" -maxFPS 60

Do not assume that a command-line option changes every setting in the JSON file. Some options override a matching network value; others select an entirely different startup mode. The sections below identify which behavior applies to each parameter.

Special offer. See more information about Outbyte and uninstall instructions. Please review EULA and Privacy policy.

-config versus -server

These are alternative launch approaches, not two halves of one configuration. Choose the one that matches the job you are doing.

Launch approach Configuration source Typical purpose Networking and mods Important limitation
-config <file> Selected JSON server configuration Normal dedicated or public hosting Uses JSON networking and public-server mod settings; command-line overrides can replace selected values Requires a valid JSON file and correctly exposed ports
-server <world> World supplied on the command line Local server and scenario testing Can be combined with local add-on options such as -addons and -addonsDir The JSON configuration is ignored when this mode is used

Use -config when clients need a repeatable public-server definition: scenario, bind and public ports, validation behavior and Workshop mods belong in the JSON configuration. Use -server when you need to launch a particular world quickly for local testing and do not want the JSON file involved. Mixing -server with a carefully prepared public JSON file will not produce a hybrid; the file is ignored.

Rank #2
Windex Gaming Cleaning Wipes, Pre-Moistened Wipes to Instantly Clean all Gaming Gear and Electronics, Resealable Packaging for a Freshness Lock, 25 count (Pack of 1)
  • WINDEX GAMING WIPES: effortlessly clean all your gaming gear and gaming electronics in one easy step with our new Windex Gaming Wipes
  • AMMONIA FREE: our ammonia-free formula is safe to use on all of your favorite gaming equipment like consoles, headsets, controllers, screens, keyboards, and more
  • PRE-MOISTENED WIPES: each wipe instantly removes dust, dirt, and stubborn smudges and fingerprints leaving a streak-free shine
  • ANTI-STATIC: great for cleaning and wiping down your gaming gear and electronics leaving behind no visible residue
  • COMPACT RESEALABLE PACKAGE: store your pack of Windex Gaming Wipes anywhere in your home for whenever a quick and easy wipedown is needed

Parameter reference

The following options are the practical startup controls documented for the dedicated server. Names are case-insensitive. Values shown as numbers or paths should be replaced with values for your host.

Parameter Value What it does Operational notes
-config JSON file path Selects the server configuration file. The normal dedicated-server workflow. Quote paths containing spaces.
-server World path Starts a local server with the specified world. Ignores the JSON configuration in this mode.
-bindIP IP address Overrides configured bind and registration addresses. Useful on hosts with more than one network interface.
-bindPort Port number Overrides configured bind and registration ports. For public hosting, keep it aligned with publicPort unless you intentionally separate them.
-maxFPS Number Caps server simulation frame rate. The hosting guidance recommends setting a cap and uses 60 as an example to avoid wasting CPU.
-a2sIpAddress IP address Sets the address used by Steam Query Protocol. This is separate from the game-server bind address.
-a2sPort Port number Sets the Steam Query Protocol port. Expose the selected port if external server browsers must query it.
-addons Comma-separated IDs Loads specified add-ons. IDs can be GUIDs, project IDs or, as a fallback, add-on subdirectory names. Do not insert spaces after commas unless the shell and server accept them as part of the value.
-addonsDir Directory path Adds a directory to the local add-on search path. Quote a path with spaces.
-autoreload Seconds or disabled Reloads the scenario after a session ends. disabled is documented for restart behavior in version 1.3.0.
-autoshutdown No value Runs the documented shutdown process. Commonly paired with -autoreload for controlled session cycling.
-listScenarios No value Logs available scenario .conf paths at startup. Useful when a world or scenario path is uncertain.
-logStats No value Enables optional operational statistics logging. Use when diagnosing server behavior rather than as a gameplay setting.
-logLevel Level value Controls optional logging detail. Choose a level appropriate to the amount of diagnostic output you need.
-addonsVerify No value Checks installed add-on integrity. The server shuts down if corruption is found.
-addonsRepair No value Checks add-ons and attempts repairs. The server shuts down if a repair cannot complete.

Set up a public dedicated server with -config

A reliable public launch separates persistent server settings from temporary diagnostics. Put the normal scenario, network and mod definition in JSON, then reserve command-line options for deliberate overrides and lifecycle controls.

Special offer. See more information about Outbyte and uninstall instructions. Please review EULA and Privacy policy.
  1. Create or choose the JSON file. Use a stable path that your service account can read. JSON property names are case-sensitive, and values are strings unless the configuration reference documents another type. A spelling or capitalization error can therefore prevent the intended setting from being read.
  2. Check the network values. Public-hosting defaults are 2001/UDP for game traffic, 17777 for A2S queries and 19999 for RCON. The configured bind port defaults to 2001 and should normally track publicPort. Leave the bind address empty when you want the server to listen on all IPv4 interfaces (0.0.0.0); the reference states that IPv6 is not supported.
  3. Keep validation enabled. The public-hosting guidance recommends fastValidation set to true. This is a JSON setting, not a replacement for command-line syntax.
  4. Define public mods in the JSON. The game.mods list identifies Workshop mods that clients download and activate. Each entry can contain a mod ID, an optional version and a required flag. This is the appropriate source for a public server where clients must receive the same content.
  5. Launch the executable. Start with the configuration path and add a frame-rate cap. For example:
ArmaReforgerServer.exe -config ".Configsu0000Campaign_SWCoast.json" -maxFPS 60
  1. Forward and permit the ports. Allow the selected UDP game port through the host firewall and any upstream router. Do the same for the A2S and RCON ports when those services must be reachable. A server can start successfully yet remain invisible or unjoinable when forwarding does not match the values in the configuration.
  2. Inspect startup output. Use -listScenarios when checking available scenario paths, and use -logStats or -logLevel when investigating performance or operational behavior. Remove extra diagnostic switches from a routine launch once the issue is understood.

Binding addresses, game ports and A2S queries

There are two related but distinct network concerns: the game server’s bind and registration settings, and Steam Query Protocol (A2S) settings used by browsers and monitoring tools.

Game traffic and registration

-bindIP overrides the configured bind and registration address. This matters on a machine with several adapters, such as a private management interface and a public interface. If you do not need to constrain the interface, leaving the configured bind address empty generally lets the server use 0.0.0.0.

Rank #3
Sale
LISEN Cell Phone Stand Phone Holder for Desk, Office Decor Gadgets for Men
  • Ergonomic & Adjustable Design: Fight "text neck" and improve your posture. Designed for comfort, it offers an adjustable height (7.1in-8.5in) (1.4in adjustable range) and angle (5°-85°) Please note: cell phone stand is only 9 inches tall—the length of a standard pencil
  • Without blocking subtitles Perfect for office desk Tiktok Face Time Zoom video—this is the ultimate kitchen desk essential for phones! Perfect viewing experience while reducing neck back strain, A must-have for gamers streamers desk, and anyone who values both style and support!
  • Sleek & Stable Design fits Otterbox Case: Say goodbye to bent cables, tangles, and tip-overs! LISEN’s stylish adjustable desk phone holder features a built-in charging hole and smart cable management, keeping your phone secure and your workspace clutter-free cool gadgets for men
  • ANTI-SLIP DESIGN free hands: The under 10.00 items easy gadgets back and the bottom of this kitchen essentials for women are fully covered by anti-skid silicone, which LISEN stand up desk decor can provide maximum protection device from any scratches and slides
  • Your Perfect Viewing Companion:If your product arrives damaged or breaks within 365 days, reach out to LISEN for a quick and hassle-free solution. Struggling with assembly, like tightening the screw? We’ve got your back! Your experience matters to us. (Product including: phone Holder stand*1, screw*1, hexagon screwdriver*1, specification*1)

-bindPort overrides the configured bind and registration port. The documented default is 2001, and it should normally match publicPort. If you intentionally use another port, update the firewall and forwarding rules to the same value and make sure the public registration value is not left pointing at the old port.

Steam Query Protocol

-a2sIpAddress and -a2sPort control where A2S queries listen. They do not replace the game bind options. A server may accept game connections while appearing offline in a browser if the A2S address or port is wrong, blocked, or forwarded to a different machine.

Special offer. See more information about Outbyte and uninstall instructions. Please review EULA and Privacy policy.
ArmaReforgerServer.exe -a2sIpAddress 192.168.1.10 -a2sPort 7777

The example deliberately uses a non-default query port. Substitute an address that exists on the host and expose that port only when external querying is required.

Loading mods from the command line

Local launch with -server

For a local world, combine -server with an add-on directory and a comma-separated add-on list:

Rank #4
Ledagic IC+RGBW USB Powered Led Light Bar with App & Remote Control, 2 Pack
  • Easy Installation: Our gaming lights have been designed to enhance your entertainment experience. Simply position the led light bar next to your TV or game console to create a game room environment with ease. They come with USB power and a 60 inch cord for direct mounting and mobility
  • Audio Syncing & Extensive Mode: The built-in high-sensitivity music sensor allows you to sync the TV led lights to your favorite music. Lights react and move to the beat of music, film and game audio, creating an incredible immersive sound and light experience – and all without the need for an additional hub. You can choose from 64+ patterns, including strobe, illusion, jump, energy, gradient, running, chasing, fluttering mode etc. Each mode can be applied to different scenes
  • 64+ Chasing IC+RGB & W Effect: The independent control design of IC+RGB and white all-in-one multifunctional rgbw led bar lights monitor backlight allows you to easily switch the led lights for desk between IC+RGB and white to enjoy a variety of lighting effects, you can choose white lighting mode with high brightness for better illumination when working, etc. Choose IC+RGB lighting mode when you need to create an entertaining atmosphere for the light show, 16 million colours of Color changing rgb light bar let you dance to the beat and create a dynamic party atmosphere
  • Dynamic and Dimmable Lights: 1%-full brightness free brightness adjustment gives you the flexibility to adjust dimmable led light bar for room decorations or a variety of occasions
  • USB Powered: USB light bars for room can be powered by powernank, usb charger, TV, Monitor, laptop PC mainframe, making behind TV led lighting bar easy to install in any location.TV led lights are powered by the TV usb interface / PC mainframe, can be turned on/off synchronously with TV / PC
ArmaReforgerServer.exe -server "worlds/MP/MPTest.ent" -addonsDir "C:MyModsDir" -addons MyCustomMod

The add-on search path includes profile/addons, the executable’s addons directory and every directory supplied with -addonsDir. The value passed to -addons can be a GUID, a project ID or, as a fallback, the name of an add-on subdirectory. Multiple IDs are separated by commas.

This approach is useful for testing a locally stored project without asking clients to download Workshop content. It does not turn the local launch into a public-server Workshop definition; remember that -server ignores the JSON file.

Public server with game.mods

For public play, put Workshop entries in the JSON game.mods list. Each entry may specify its mod ID, an optional version and whether the mod is required. Clients then download and activate the listed content according to that public-server definition. This is different from -addonsDir, which only adds a local filesystem search location, and from -addons, which directly selects local IDs at launch.

Independent reader supportYour contribution helps us test, update, and keep practical guides available for everyone.Support on Ko-Fi

Restart, shutdown and integrity controls

Scenario cycling

-autoreload <seconds> reloads the scenario after a session ends. In version 1.3.0, disabled is documented for restart behavior when you do not want automatic reloading. Use a value that reflects the delay you want between sessions; do not confuse this with a frame-rate or network timeout setting.

Best Value
Sale
HUANUO FlowLift™ Dual Monitor Stand, Fully Adjustable Gaming Monitor Desk Mount for 13–32″ Computer Screens, Full Motion VESA 75x75/100x100 with C-Clamp & Grommet Base, Each Arm Holds 4.4 to 19.8 lbs
  • Compatible with Wide Screens - To ensure compatibility with the dual monitor mount, your each monitor must meet three conditions at the same time: First, computer screens size range: 13 to 32 inches. Second, screen weight range: 4.4 to 19.8 lbs. Third, the back of the monitor screen must have VESA mounting holes with a pitch of 75x75mm or 100x100mm.
  • Regarding the compatibility with desks - Your desk must meet three conditions at the same time: First, desk material: Only wooden desks are recommended, plastic or glass desks cannot be used. Second, desk thickness range: 0.59" - 3.54". Third, the bottom of the desk should not have any cross beams or panels, as this will interfere with installation. We recommend carefully checking that your desk and monitors meets all above conditions before purchasing.
  • Dual C-Clamp Hold - Worried your dual monitors might wobble or slip? Our upgraded base uses a larger platform plus a dual C-clamp structure to lock the dual monitor arm firmly to your desk. Each arm safely keeps your screens steady while you type, click and game—no shaking, no sliding, just a clean and secure setup you can trust every day. It also provides Grommet Mounting installation choice, both options ensure stable and secure fixation for your 0.59" - 3.54" desk.
  • Full-Motion Adjustment For Comfortable View - Pull the screen closer when you’re deep in a spreadsheet, push it back to watch videos, or rotate to portrait for coding — moving everything smoothly with just one hand. The monitor stand offers +85°/-50° tilt, ±90° swivel and 360° rotation. Raise your monitor up to 15.75″ to support a healthy sitting posture. Whether you’re working from home, gaming through the night, or switching between video calls and documents, getting the screens to your natural line of sight helps relieve neck, shoulder and back strain so you can stay focused longer with less fatigue.
  • Keep Your Desk Organized: By lifting both screens off the desktop, this dual monitor stand opens up valuable space for your keyboard, notebook, docking station or a simple, clutter-free work area. Built-in cable management guides wires along the arms, keeping cords out of sight and out of the way. Enjoy a tidy, modern workstation that looks as good as it feels to use.

-autoshutdown performs the documented shutdown process and is commonly paired with -autoreload. Together they can provide a predictable end-of-session transition for a service manager or scheduled restart policy. Test the pair in a maintenance window so you know how your host reacts to the exit.

Special offer. See more information about Outbyte and uninstall instructions. Please review EULA and Privacy policy.

Add-on verification and repair

Run -addonsVerify when you need an integrity check. The server shuts down if corruption is found, which makes the result unambiguous for an administrator or automated service. -addonsRepair goes further by attempting to repair corrupted add-ons; it also shuts down if repair fails. Treat these as maintenance launches rather than permanent gameplay switches, because an intentional shutdown is part of their documented behavior.

Worked launch patterns

These command lines use the documented forms and should be adapted to your own paths, interfaces and ports.

Standard public launch with an FPS cap

ArmaReforgerServer.exe -config ".Configsu0000Campaign_SWCoast.json" -maxFPS 60

Use this when the JSON file contains the scenario, public ports, validation and Workshop mods. The 60 value is the official hosting example, not a guarantee that every machine or scenario has identical performance.

Override the network interface and port

ArmaReforgerServer.exe -bindIP 192.168.1.42 -bindPort 2302

This is an override launch. Ensure that the selected interface exists and that the firewall, router and public registration values agree with the new port. If you need the rest of a public configuration, include -config as well; otherwise you are not selecting a JSON server definition.

Special offer. See more information about Outbyte and uninstall instructions. Please review EULA and Privacy policy.

Local world with custom content

ArmaReforgerServer.exe -server "worlds/MP/MPTest.ent" -addonsDir "C:MyModsDir" -addons MyCustomMod

This starts the named world, searches the additional directory and loads the selected local add-on. It does not read public JSON settings.

Custom A2S endpoint

ArmaReforgerServer.exe -a2sIpAddress 192.168.1.10 -a2sPort 7777

Use this when the query service must bind to a particular address and port. It is independent of the game traffic port.

Troubleshooting by symptom

The server starts but clients cannot join

  • Confirm that the UDP game port in the configuration matches bindPort and, normally, publicPort.
  • Check host-firewall and router forwarding rules for the same port.
  • Verify that -bindIP is not forcing the server onto a private or disconnected interface.
  • Remember that IPv6 is not supported according to the server-configuration reference; test with an IPv4 address.

The server is missing from a browser

  • Check the A2S address and port separately from the game address and port.
  • Forward and permit the configured A2S port, which defaults to 17777 for public hosting.
  • Ensure the query port is not already occupied by another service.

A JSON change appears to do nothing

  • Check capitalization: JSON keys are case-sensitive.
  • Check the value type. The reference says values are strings unless a setting is documented otherwise.
  • Look for a command-line override such as -bindIP or -bindPort.
  • Confirm you did not launch with -server, because that mode ignores the JSON file.

A mod cannot be found

  • Confirm the ID format: GUID, project ID or the correct subdirectory-name fallback.
  • Check each search location: profile/addons, the executable’s addons directory and every -addonsDir path.
  • For public Workshop content, move the definition into the JSON game.mods list instead of relying on a local directory.
  • Run -addonsVerify or -addonsRepair as a maintenance launch if corruption is suspected, and plan for the documented shutdown.

The server consumes unnecessary CPU

  • Add -maxFPS and choose a cap appropriate to the scenario and host. The official hosting example uses 60.
  • Use -logStats and an appropriate -logLevel while diagnosing, then reduce logging once the cause is known.

Pre-launch checklist

  • Decide whether this is a JSON-backed public server (-config) or a local world launch (-server).
  • Quote every path or world value that contains spaces.
  • Check JSON key capitalization and documented value types.
  • Set a deliberate -maxFPS cap for a dedicated host.
  • Keep bindPort and publicPort aligned unless you have a specific reason not to.
  • Forward the game, A2S and RCON ports that you actually intend to expose: public defaults are 2001/UDP, 17777 and 19999 respectively.
  • Choose the correct mod source: local IDs and directories for testing, or game.mods for public Workshop delivery.
  • Use scenario listing and logging options to diagnose paths and performance before changing gameplay settings.
  • Run add-on verification or repair separately when integrity is in doubt, because those operations can shut the server down.

Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Special offer. See more information about Outbyte and uninstall instructions. Please review EULA and Privacy policy.

More quests from Patch Notes

  1. How to Set Up a RedM (RDR2) Server in 2026: License Key, txAdmin and server.cfg, Step by StepBlog11min
  2. Best RedM (RDR2) Server Hosting in 2026: Comparing Four Hosts on Slots, Memory and PriceBlog10min
  3. How to Host a Mindustry Server in 2026: server-release.jar, Port 6567 and the Commands That MatterBlog7min
Recommended PC Tool
Recommended PC Tool
PC Slower Than It Used to Be?Free scan - under a minute
Crashes, No Sound, or Screen Glitches?Free driver scan

Two free Windows tools

One Free Minute Could Fix That PC

Before you go - each of these free tools takes about a minute and tackles what quietly slows a Windows PC down.

Special offer. View Outbyte info, uninstall instructions, EULA, and Privacy Policy.