October DealsAmazon USOctober deal check: compare before you payAmazon US: current deals, useful picks and tech finds.Check DealsPC HealthRecommendedCrashes, freezes, slowdowns? Check your PC nowSpot repairable issues before they interrupt work.Check PCOctober DealsAmazon USDeal season is back - check today's better picksAmazon US: current deals, useful picks and tech finds.See Picks×
Skip to content
VGSources
Blog

How to Install Mods on an Arma Reforger Server

Set up a modded Arma Reforger dedicated server with SteamCMD, Workshop GUIDs, the JSON game.mods list, launch parameters and public networking fixes.
Length10 min Posted Quest giverVGSources Team
Special offer. See more information about Outbyte and uninstall instructions. Please review EULA and Privacy policy.

Install Arma Reforger Workshop mods by running the dedicated-server application, copying the mod list generated by the in-game Mod Manager into the server’s JSON game.mods array, then launching with -config. Required entries are downloaded for joining players automatically. Public servers also need deliberate FPS limits, correct binding, and UDP port forwarding.

What a modded Arma Reforger server needs

Arma Reforger has two server modes. A listen (player-hosted) server runs from a player’s game session, while a dedicated server runs without a local game instance and handles game information and network synchronisation. A dedicated server is the practical choice for a persistent community server because it can keep running after the administrator leaves the game.

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.
Mode How it runs Best use Main limitation
Listen server Hosted from an active player’s game Short sessions with friends Session ends or changes when the host leaves
Dedicated server Separate server application with no local game instance Persistent public or private communities Requires SteamCMD installation, JSON configuration and network administration

Workshop content is not installed by dropping files into a generic “mods” folder. The authoritative method is a JSON list under game.mods. Each entry identifies a Workshop item by its GUID, gives the item’s name, and states whether clients must have it.

Choose the server build before installing

Bohemia Interactive publishes separate Steam applications for the stable and experimental dedicated-server branches. Use the branch that matches the rest of your deployment and the mods you intend to run.

#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.
Branch Steam app ID When to choose it
Stable 1874900 Normal production hosting where predictable updates matter
Experimental 1890870 Testing features or mods that specifically target the experimental branch

Do not mix a server branch and mod versions casually. A mod that works on an experimental build may not load on stable, and changing branches can trigger a large update before the next start.

Prerequisites and planning checklist

  • A Windows machine or server account capable of running the dedicated-server executable and SteamCMD.
  • Enough disk space for the server files, downloaded Workshop content, updates and logs.
  • Administrative access to create a server directory, open the firewall and, for internet hosting, configure the router.
  • The Workshop mods you intend to use, including their dependencies.
  • A plan for whether each mod is required for every player or merely optional.
  • A backup location for the JSON configuration and any custom local add-ons.

Console players can join modded servers, but console storage and performance limits may differ from PC. Test the complete mod set with the console versions your community actually uses instead of assuming that a PC-sized collection will fit everywhere.

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

Install or update the dedicated server with SteamCMD

SteamCMD installs the dedicated-server application and is also the normal way to update it. The following sequence uses the stable app; substitute 1890870 for an experimental installation.

  1. Download and extract SteamCMD to a directory you control.
  2. Create a separate empty directory for the Reforger server files, such as C:ReforgerServer.
  3. Open SteamCMD and run:
login anonymous
force_install_dir C:ReforgerServer
app_update 1874900 validate
quit

Use a path appropriate to your installation. force_install_dir keeps server files separate from SteamCMD itself, while validate checks the installed files. For an experimental server, the update line is:

app_update 1890870 validate

Run the same update process during maintenance windows. A server update can alter the executable or bundled data while Workshop items update independently, so restart and test after both kinds of update.

Create the JSON server configuration

Reforger server configuration is JSON, and parameter names are case-sensitive. Start from the official configuration template for your server version rather than inventing keys. Launch the executable with:

Special offer. See more information about Outbyte and uninstall instructions. Please review EULA and Privacy policy.
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
ArmaReforgerServer.exe -config "C:ReforgerServerconfig.json"

The -config argument tells the executable which JSON file to load. Keep the file valid JSON: use double quotes, commas between properties, and no comments inside the file. A single trailing comma can prevent startup.

Public hosting also uses binding and public-address settings in the configuration. The exact property names can vary with the official template, so preserve the names and nesting supplied with your installed version. The default public game port documented for the server is 2001/UDP; if you choose another port, forward that port instead and keep the firewall and router values identical.

Keep fastValidation enabled for public hosting unless you have a specific, tested reason to change it. The official guidance also recommends controlling the process frame rate with the -maxFPS launch option rather than allowing unrestricted resource use.

Find Workshop mods and obtain their GUIDs

Use the in-game Workshop and Mod Manager to select the content you want. The Mod Manager can display the selected collection in a JSON tab; copy the generated entries rather than manually transcribing identifiers.

Free tools Windows power users keep installed

One-click scans. No signup required.

Special offer. See more information about Outbyte and uninstall instructions. Please review EULA and Privacy policy.
  1. Open Arma Reforger’s Workshop.
  2. Subscribe to the mods you need and allow their content to download.
  3. Open the Mod Manager and activate the intended set.
  4. Review dependencies and make sure every dependency is also available.
  5. Open the manager’s JSON view and copy the mod entries into the server configuration’s game.mods array.

The Workshop GUID is the value used as modId or modID. Follow the capitalization used by the official template generated for your server version; JSON keys are case-sensitive. Keep the human-readable name exactly as generated so that logs and administration tools remain understandable.

Add the mod list to game.mods

Place the generated entries inside the existing game.mods array. This is an illustrative structure; use the real GUIDs, names and optional versions produced by your Mod Manager.

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)
{
  "game": {
    "mods": [
      {
        "modId": "5A1B2C3D4E5F6789",
        "name": "Example Mod",
        "required": true
      },
      {
        "modId": "9F8E7D6C5B4A3210",
        "name": "Optional Example Mod",
        "required": false
      }
    ]
  }
}

If the generated entry includes a version property, retain it when you need that specific release. If version is omitted, the server uses the latest available version. Pinning a version can improve repeatability, but it also means you must deliberately change the configuration when you want an update.

Required versus optional entries

  • Required: Joining clients are expected to download and activate the item. If a required mod cannot be downloaded or a dependency is missing, startup or the joining process can fail.
  • Optional: The server may remove the item from the active set for a client that cannot download it. Use this only for content that is genuinely non-essential to the mission.

Do not duplicate a GUID under different names. Check every comma and bracket after editing, then validate the file with a JSON-aware editor before launching.

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

Launch the server and control resource use

For a normal installation, launch with the configuration path:

ArmaReforgerServer.exe -config "C:ReforgerServerconfig.json" -maxFPS 90

The official hosting guidance recommends a deliberate -maxFPS value in the 60–120 range. A value such as 90 is an example, not a universal performance target; choose within that range after observing CPU load, simulation stability and your player count. An unrestricted frame rate can consume resources without improving the network simulation.

For local add-on testing before uploading a mod to Workshop, the server supports the -server, -addonsDir and -addons arguments together:

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

This local workflow is separate from Workshop distribution. Once a custom add-on is published, switch the production configuration to its Workshop GUID and test a clean client download.

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

Make the server reachable from the internet

A server that works on the same machine or local network is not automatically reachable by friends elsewhere. Public hosting requires both correct Reforger binding/public settings and network forwarding.

  1. Give the server machine a stable local IP address, either by a static assignment or a router reservation.
  2. Allow the dedicated-server executable through the host firewall.
  3. Forward the configured game port, normally 2001/UDP, from the router to the server’s local IP.
  4. Ensure the server’s public and bind settings identify the intended interface and external address according to the official template.
  5. Start the server and test from a network outside the host’s LAN, such as a friend’s connection or a mobile hotspot.

If local players can connect but outside players cannot, the mod list is usually not the first suspect: check the firewall, router rule, carrier-grade NAT and the configured public address. A closed or incorrectly forwarded port prevents internet visibility regardless of how correct game.mods is.

How clients receive the mods

Mods are distributed through the official Arma Reforger Workshop. When a client joins, required Workshop entries in the server configuration can be downloaded and activated automatically. Players should still keep enough console or PC storage available, and they may need to restart the game after a large content update.

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

Console support exists, but storage and performance limits can differ from PC. Keep the required collection as small as the scenario allows, remove abandoned dependencies, and test joining on each supported console family. An optional mod that is harmless on PC may still consume storage or cause a console client to drop it, so mark only genuinely non-essential content as optional.

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

Update, replace or remove a mod safely

Updating Workshop content

Stop the server before changing its mod set. Update the server’s Workshop items through the normal client or server download process, then restart and inspect the logs for download or dependency errors. If you omitted version, the latest available release is selected; if a version is specified, change that property deliberately when moving to a newer release.

Replacing a mod

Back up the working JSON file, replace the old generated entry with the new GUID and name, and check whether the mission depends on the old item. Restart the server and have one PC and one console client join before announcing the change.

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.

Removing a mod

Remove its complete object from game.mods, not just the name, then verify that no remaining mod lists it as a dependency. Removing a required gameplay mod can make existing missions or saved configuration unusable, so keep the backup until the replacement setup has been tested.

What’s actually slowing this PC down?

Pick the symptom - the matching free tool is one click away.

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

Troubleshoot common installation failures

Symptom Likely cause What to check
Server exits immediately Malformed JSON or incorrect key capitalization Validate brackets, commas, quotes and the exact spelling from the official template; confirm the -config path.
Mod is listed but does not load Wrong Workshop GUID, unavailable item or branch mismatch Copy the GUID again from Mod Manager, confirm the item still exists in Workshop and verify stable versus experimental branch compatibility.
Players are refused at join Required mod or dependency cannot download Check server logs, Workshop availability and every dependency; mark an item optional only if the mission can operate without it.
Optional content disappears The client could not download the optional item Confirm that this behavior is acceptable, then check the client’s storage, Workshop access and logs.
Local players connect, remote players cannot Firewall, router forwarding or public/bind setting Forward the configured UDP port (normally 2001), allow the executable through the firewall and test from outside the LAN.
Server uses excessive CPU Unrestricted frame rate or an oversized mod set Set -maxFPS deliberately within the recommended 60–120 range and remove unnecessary mods.
Clients receive different content after an update Server and Workshop versions are out of sync Stop the server, update its content, review any pinned version values and restart only after the list is consistent.

Keep a copy of the last known-good configuration. When diagnosing a failure, change one thing at a time: first prove the unmodded server starts, then add the required collection, and finally add optional items. This isolates a bad GUID or dependency faster than replacing the entire file.

Self-hosting or a managed server?

Running the dedicated server yourself gives direct control over files, startup parameters, update timing and the exact JSON configuration. It also makes you responsible for SteamCMD maintenance, Workshop updates, backups, firewall rules, port forwarding, monitoring and hardware capacity.

A managed Arma Reforger host trades some low-level control for simpler deployment and provider-managed networking. Before choosing one, compare the responsibilities rather than assuming that every host supports the same mod workflow.

Decision axis Self-hosting Managed hosting
Files and startup parameters Full control over the executable, JSON and launch flags Depends on the provider’s panel and allowed settings
Workshop updates You schedule downloads, testing and restarts May be automated, but verify how versions and dependencies are handled
Networking You configure firewall, public binding and port forwarding Provider normally supplies a reachable endpoint
Uptime and monitoring Your hardware, power and monitoring determine availability Often includes infrastructure monitoring; confirm the actual service level
Capacity and storage Limited by your machine and connection Plan selection determines CPU, memory, player slots and storage
Recurring cost Uses your existing hardware and bandwidth, with your maintenance time Monthly fee varies by capacity, location and included support

Choose self-hosting when you need unrestricted access to files and launch options and can maintain networking. Choose a managed service when avoiding SteamCMD, JSON administration and router configuration is worth paying for, but confirm its Reforger branch, Workshop support, storage limits and console compatibility before committing.

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

Production checklist

  • Stable or experimental app ID selected intentionally.
  • Dedicated-server files installed and validated with SteamCMD.
  • Configuration path works with -config and the JSON parses cleanly.
  • Every Workshop GUID and name copied from Mod Manager.
  • Dependencies present and required/optional flags chosen deliberately.
  • fastValidation retained for public hosting and -maxFPS set between 60 and 120.
  • Firewall and UDP forwarding configured for the selected port, normally 2001.
  • At least one clean PC client and each supported console type tested.
  • Backup of the last known-good JSON and a documented update procedure.

Once these checks pass, installing another Workshop mod is a controlled configuration change: activate it in Mod Manager, copy its generated object into game.mods, verify dependencies, restart, and test before opening the server to the full community.

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
Windows Errors? Fix Them Before They SpreadFree repair scan
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.