Dedicated Servers for Gaming in 2024: Providers, Setup, and Performance Tips

In the fast-growing world of online gaming, a smooth experience depends on more than just player skill. Reliable server hosting plays a key role in shaping gameplay. Lag, crashes, and poor connection can ruin even the best gaming moments.

With the global online gaming market now worth $27.97 billion, the demand for high-quality dedicated server hosting is stronger than ever.1

A Dedicated Server Hosting for Gaming is a physical or virtual machine that hosts a game. Unlike shared or peer-to-peer hosting, a dedicated server solely manages game data and player connections. This setup ensures better control over the game environment and higher performance.

This guide will review the top 10 gaming dedicated server providers of 2024. Choosing the right server can make or break your gaming experience.

Key Benefits of Dedicated Server Hosting for Gaming

Let’s discuss these benefits in detail.

• Improved Performance and Low Latency: Dedicated servers provide faster, more reliable gameplay. With fewer delays, you get smoother sessions without lag. This becomes more important with the increasing number of global gamers, expected to reach 3.32 billion by 2024.
• Customizable Game Settings and Mods: A dedicated server lets you tailor game settings to your preferences. You can install mods, tweak game mechanics, and adjust the environment, offering a unique gaming experience for your community.
• Enhanced Security (DDoS Protection, Admin Control): Security is crucial in gaming. Dedicated servers come with tools to prevent DDoS attacks. Admin controls also give you more power to manage who joins and how your server operates.
• Scalability for Larger Player Bases: A dedicated server scales easily as your gaming community grows. You can increase resources like RAM or storage to support more players without losing performance. This flexibility is essential as the global gaming market expands.

Key Factors to Consider When Choosing a Dedicated Server Hosting for Gaming Provider

Let’s discuss the essential factors for selecting the best-dedicated server hosting provider to elevate your gaming experience.

Performance and Uptime

A reliable provider must offer high-performance hardware. Faster processors, solid-state drives, and ample RAM ensure smooth gameplay. Providers must also guarantee uptime to avoid server downtime, ideally 99.9% or higher.

Server Location

Server location plays a huge role in reducing ping. The closer the server is to your players, the lower the latency. This ensures a stable, fast connection for everyone. With 3.09 billion active video game players globally, server proximity impacts gameplay quality.

Game Compatibility

Your provider should support the games you plan to host. This includes mod support and specific game server options like Minecraft, ARK, or Valheim. Ensure the provider’s infrastructure can handle the games you want to run.

Customer Support

24/7 customer support is vital for resolving server issues quickly. Providers should offer live support and have knowledgeable staff to help with technical problems or setup questions.

Pricing and Scalability

When comparing providers, consider cost and how easily you can upgrade resources. The best services offer affordable pricing without compromising performance. Scalability matters, too, especially if your player base increases over time. Choose a provider that allows flexible upgrades.

Also Read 7 Best DNS Servers for Gaming in 2024 to Reduce Lag and Boost Speed

Top 10 Dedicated Server Hosting for Gaming Providers in 2024

As the gaming world grows, reliable server hosting becomes crucial. Gamers need low-latency, high-performance servers to ensure smooth gameplay and avoid interruptions. Below are the top 10 Dedicated Server Hosting for Gaming providers for 2024, each offering unique features and strengths to meet varying gaming needs.

1. RedSwitches

RedSwitches is a major player in the dedicated gaming server market. Known for our reliability and performance, RedSwitches is ideal for gamers looking for a stable and customizable hosting environment. We offer dedicated servers tailored to gaming needs, ensuring minimal latency and high performance.

Key Features:

• Performance and Reliability: RedSwitches provides bare metal servers that guarantee uninterrupted performance and low latency, essential for smooth gameplay, especially in fast-paced multiplayer environments.
• Instant Setup: Our servers are set up within four hours, letting users start gaming quickly without long delays.
• Global Reach: With 20 server locations worldwide, RedSwitches enables gamers to connect to servers closer to their location, reducing latency significantly.
• Customizable Server Options: Users can adjust configurations to meet specific game needs, such as increasing CPU, RAM, or storage based on the game’s requirements.
• 24/7 Support: RedSwitches offers round-the-clock customer service through multiple channels, ensuring quick resolutions to server issues.

Pros:

• Strong global presence with 20 server locations.
• Customizable setups based on game needs.
• Fast setup times, usually within four hours.
• Advanced security features like DDoS protection.

Cons:

• Limited to more advanced users who need customization options.

2. Survival Servers

Survival Servers is popular among gamers who need reliable and cost-effective server hosting. It specializes in survival-based games like ARK: Survival Evolved and Rust, making it a top option for hosting multiplayer sessions in demanding environments.

Key Features:

• Game-Specific Optimization: Survival Servers specializes in games with high resource demands, ensuring servers are optimized for specific titles.
• Custom Control Panel: Users get access to a custom control panel, which simplifies server management with intuitive options.
• Automatic Mod Support: Built-in support for Steam Workshop and custom mods makes customization easy for various games.
• Instant Setup: Quick server setup lets players start almost immediately after purchasing.

Pros:

• Optimized for survival games.
• Easy mod support and installation.
• Simple, user-friendly control panel.
• Affordable pricing for smaller-scale game servers.

Cons:

• Limited customer support compared to some competitors.
• Performance can degrade as player numbers increase.

3. GTX Gaming

GTX Gaming is known for offering flexible and scalable gaming servers for casual and professional gamers. They support various games and offer a feature-rich control panel for easy server management.

Key Features:

• Wide Game Support: GTX Gaming offers servers for numerous games, including popular titles like Minecraft, ARK, and Valheim.
• Scalability: The service allows for easy server upgrades, meaning gamers can increase their resources as their community grows.
• Advanced Control Panel: GTX Gaming’s control panel has features that allow users to easily manage settings, install mods, and monitor server performance.
• Global Network: GTX Gaming has servers worldwide, ensuring low latency for players in different regions.

Pros:

• Supports a wide variety of games.
• Easily scalable server options.
• Feature-rich control panel for advanced users.
• Competitive pricing for long-term plans.

Cons:

• Occasional customer support delays.
• Performance may vary depending on server load and location.

4. Host Havoc

Host Havoc is a leading provider in the game hosting industry, known for its strong uptime and dependable performance. With a focus on user experience, Host Havoc serves gamers seeking reliable, high-performance servers for various games.

Key Features:

• 99.9% Uptime Guarantee: Host Havoc offers one of the highest uptime rates in the industry, ensuring minimal server downtime.
• Intuitive Control Panel: Users can easily manage servers thanks to the company’s streamlined control panel, which simplifies adjustments and customizations.
• DDoS Protection: Security is a priority, with built-in protection against DDoS attacks, safeguarding the server from disruptions.
• 24/7 Support: Host Havoc provides around-the-clock customer support, promptly addressing any server issues.

Pros:

• Excellent uptime and reliability.
• Easy-to-use control panel.
• Robust security measures with DDoS protection.
• Supports a wide range of games.

Cons:

• Pricing is slightly higher compared to budget providers.
• Limited mod support for certain games.

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5. Shockbyte

Shockbyte has gained a reputation for affordable yet reliable game server hosting, particularly Minecraft and ARK. It focuses on providing competitive prices without sacrificing performance, making it a great choice for budget-conscious gamers.

Key Features:

• Affordable Pricing: Shockbyte offers some of the most competitive rates for game hosting without compromising on key features.
• Instant Setup: Servers are instantly available upon purchase, allowing users to start gaming without waiting.
• Unlimited SSD Storage: Shockbyte provides unlimited SSD storage for its game servers, ensuring quick load times and smooth gameplay.
• DDoS Protection: All servers are protected against DDoS attacks, helping to keep gameplay uninterrupted and secure.

Pros:

• Very affordable, budget-friendly plans.
• Instant server setup.
• Unlimited SSD storage for faster performance.
• Strong DDoS protection.

Cons:

• Limited to fewer game options compared to larger providers.
• Customer support can be slow during peak hours.

6. GPortal

GPortal offers dedicated game servers, including ARK, Rust, and Minecraft. Known for its global reach and user-friendly interface, GPortal is suitable for both small and large gaming communities looking for reliable hosting.

Key Features:

• Global Server Network: GPortal operates servers in numerous locations worldwide, minimizing latency and improving player experience no matter where they are located.
• Custom Control Panel: Their custom-built control panel allows for easy server management, providing options to adjust settings, install mods, and monitor server performance.
• Instant Server Setup: Like many competitors, GPortal provides immediate server setup, ensuring users can start gaming immediately.
• DDoS Protection: Strong anti-DDoS measures help maintain server stability and security during high-traffic periods.

Pros:

• Wide range of global server locations.
• Easy-to-use custom control panel.
• Strong DDoS protection for uninterrupted gaming.
• Fast setup and activation.

Cons:

• Mixed reviews regarding customer support responsiveness.
• Performance can vary depending on the game and server load.

7. PingPerfect

PingPerfect is known for its extensive game library support and reliable hosting performance. With competitive pricing and strong customer service, it has become a favored provider for many gamers.

Key Features:

• Comprehensive Game Library: PingPerfect supports over 160 games, making it one of the most versatile hosting platforms.
• Free Web Hosting: As a bonus, PingPerfect offers free web hosting with its server packages, adding value for those who want to create community forums or websites alongside their game servers.
• Backup System: Automatic backups ensure server data is safe, even in crashes or corruption.
• DDoS Protection: Integrated DDoS protection shields servers from attacks, ensuring stable gameplay.

Pros:

• Supports a wide variety of games.
• Free web hosting is included with packages.
• Automatic backups ensure data safety.
• Strong DDoS protection.

Cons:

• Somewhat outdated control panel interface.
• Pricing can be higher for larger game servers.

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8. Nitrado

Nitrado is a well-established game server hosting name known for its flexible pricing plans and ease of use. With a user-friendly interface and various hosting options, Nitrado caters to casual gamers and those managing larger communities.

Key Features:

• Dynamic Hosting: Nitrado allows for dynamic server adjustments, where you can scale server resources up or down based on your needs without downtime.
• Cross-Platform Hosting: Nitrado supports hosting for both PC and console games, making it one of the few providers to offer such versatility.
• Mod Support: Users can add mods easily, enhancing the customization options for games like Minecraft and ARK.
• Automated Backups: Regular automated backups ensure your server data is always safe, even in unexpected crashes.

Pros:

• Flexible, pay-as-you-go pricing model.
• Cross-platform hosting for PC and console games.
• Strong support for mods and custom content.
• Automated backups for data protection.

Cons:

• Customer support can be slower during high traffic periods.
• More expensive compared to other budget hosting providers.

9. Scalacube

Scalacube is popular for its affordable game server hosting plans, especially for Minecraft. With easy setup processes and support for multiple game types, Scalacube focuses on simplicity and accessibility.

Key Features:

• One-Click Setup: Scalacube offers one-click setup for many games, streamlining the server setup process for beginners.
• Free Subdomain: Each server package includes a free subdomain, making it easier for players to join your server without remembering complex IP addresses.
• Unlimited Slots: Scalacube provides unlimited player slots, letting users scale their server to accommodate larger gaming communities without additional costs.
• Mod and Plugin Support: Supports mods and plugins for popular games like Minecraft, ARK, and Rust, enhancing server customization.

Pros:

• Budget-friendly hosting options.
• One-click setup makes it ideal for beginners.
• Free subdomain included with server plans.
• Unlimited player slots for scalable hosting.

Cons:

• Performance may suffer under heavy load due to the low-cost hosting model.
• More advanced features compared to higher-end providers.

10. Nodecraft

Nodecraft is a well-known game server hosting provider focusing on simplicity and reliability. It caters to both casual gamers and communities with its user-friendly interface and robust server management tools. 

Key Features:

• Custom Control Panel: Nodecraft offers a sleek and intuitive control panel called NodePanel, simplifying server management and customization.
• One-Click Setup: The platform supports one-click installation for various games, allowing users to set up servers quickly without technical barriers.
• Cross-Platform Support: Nodecraft allows you to switch between games without losing data, offering flexibility for players who want to manage multiple game servers.
• Cloud-Backed Storage: It ensures data safety through cloud backups, so your game progress and settings are secure.
• DDoS Protection: Built-in DDoS protection ensures your server stays online and stable, even under attack.

Pros:

• User-friendly NodePanel simplifies server management.
• Supports cross-platform game hosting and seamless game switching.
• Instant server setup with one-click installation for multiple games.
• Strong DDoS protection and cloud backup for added security.

Cons:

• Pricing may be higher compared to budget providers.
• Limited customization options for advanced users needing specific configurations.

Here’s a comparison table for the Top 10 Dedicated Server Hosting for Gaming Providers in 2024:

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Deciding Between Self-Hosting vs. Renting Dedicated Server Hosting for Gaming

Hosting a game server has two main options: self-hosting or renting a dedicated server. Each option has distinct advantages and challenges, depending on your technical ability, budget, and gaming needs.

Here’s a comparison table for Self-Hosting vs. Renting Dedicated Server Hosting for Gaming:

Setting Up Your Dedicated Game Server

Setting up your dedicated game server can feel complex but manageable with the right steps. This guide will walk you through the process, ensuring you’re ready to launch a stable and secure server.

Step-by-Step Guide to Starting a Server

1. Choose a Provider and Game: Select a dedicated server provider and the game you want to host. Ensure your provider supports the game, especially if you plan on modding or using custom configurations.
2. Select Server Specifications: Choose the required CPU, RAM, and storage based on your game’s needs. Consider player load and the intensity of the game when selecting your hardware.
3. Configure Game Settings: Access the server control panel to adjust settings like game rules, player limits, and map configurations. Many providers offer pre-configured settings for popular games.
4. Install Necessary Mods: If modding is supported, upload custom mods or plugins through the control panel or FTP access. Make sure all mods are compatible with the game version.
5. Launch the Server: Once configured, start the server. Share the server IP and details with your community so players can join.

Modding and Customization

Customization options differ by provider, but most allow you to:

• Install Mods and Plugins: Many games, like Minecraft and ARK, support mods to enhance gameplay. Providers often support mod installations through easy-to-use panels or FTP.
• Custom Rules and Settings: Tailor your server’s rules and settings, such as changing game modes, adjusting AI difficulty, or adding custom maps.

Modding allows you to create a unique game experience, fostering a more engaged community.

Security and Maintenance

Keeping your server secure is essential for a smooth gaming experience:

• Implement Firewalls: Ensure your provider offers firewall management to block unauthorized access.
• Enable DDoS Protection: DDoS protection is critical for preventing attacks that can crash your server.
• Set Regular Backups: Schedule automatic backups to protect your game data and settings in case of failures or attacks.

Proper security measures ensure your server remains safe and accessible.

Expert Tips for Managing a Successful Dedicated Game Server

Running a dedicated server requires ongoing maintenance and community management. Here are key tips to keep your server running smoothly.

Performance Monitoring Tools

Use performance monitoring tools to track your server’s health:

• CPU and RAM Usage: Tools like Zabbix or Nagios help monitor CPU and memory usage to prevent server overload.
• Player Latency: Tools like PingPlotter can track player latency and connection stability, helping you promptly address lag issues.

Regular performance monitoring ensures smooth gameplay for all users.

Regular Server Updates

Keeping your server up to date is crucial:

• Install Patches: Regularly apply game and server software patches to fix bugs, improve performance, and enhance security.
• Upgrade Mods: Ensure mods and plugins are compatible with the latest game versions to avoid disruptions.

Frequent updates minimize security risks and improve overall performance.

Building a Community Around Your Server

A thriving community makes your server more enjoyable:

• Engage with Players: Use platforms like Discord or Reddit to connect with players, share updates, and get feedback.
• Set Clear Rules: Establish fair rules for behavior and gameplay and enforce them consistently to maintain a positive environment.
• Host Events: Organize regular events like tournaments or custom map nights to keep players engaged and returning.

A strong community helps build a loyal player base and keeps your server active and enjoyable.

Conclusion

As gaming evolves, reliable and high-performance dedicated servers become even more crucial. With 22% of gamers already favoring multiplayer games—and that number likely to rise as younger players prioritize community-driven experiences—a powerful server can make or break the quality of gameplay. Whether you are hosting for a small group of friends or building a large online community, the right server ensures seamless, uninterrupted gameplay.

Choosing the right Dedicated Server Hosting for Gaming provider is key for gamers who want full control, flexibility, and top-tier performance. 

Take your gaming to the next level with RedSwitches. Our dedicated servers provide the perfect power, reliability, and customization for all your gaming needs. Explore our plans today and start hosting your server with the confidence that your games will run smoothly and securely.

FAQs

1. Why use a dedicated server for gaming?
   A dedicated gaming server provides better performance and reliability, with low latency for smoother gameplay. You get full control over game settings and mods and enhanced security with DDoS protection features. It’s scalable to support more players as your community grows.
2. How much do dedicated servers cost for a game?
   Costs vary by specs, bandwidth, and services. Around $100 monthly for a basic setup to over $1000 for high-performance servers with large player capacities. Some providers offer flexible, customizable plans.
3. Which server is best for gaming?
   The best gaming server depends on your needs. Key factors are performance, reliability, server locations, and support. RedSwitches, GTX Gaming, and Host Havoc are top choices, with RedSwitches excelling in performance and global reach.
4. What is the best game server hosting website?
   Top hosting sites include RedSwitches, GTX Gaming, and Host Havoc. RedSwitches offers high-performance servers, while GTX Gaming provides flexible options. Host Havoc is known for strong uptime and customer support.
5. Where to host a game server?
   You can host a game server through providers like RedSwitches, Survival Servers, or GPortal. These companies offer global locations and professional support. Self-hosting is possible but requires technical expertise and hardware.
6. What server do games use?
   Most online games use dedicated servers provided by hosting companies, which handle game data and player connections. Some use peer-to-peer or cloud servers, but dedicated servers offer better control and performance for multiplayer games.

Reference: Online Games – Worldwide