Most server launches fail not because the server is bad, but because the launch is sloppy. This checklist is the difference.
Server config
- Game build pinned (sv_enforceGameBuild)
- License key bound to current IP
- sv_endpointprivacy true
- sv_maxClients matches actual capacity
- OneSync mode and population settings tuned
- DDoS protection confirmed at the host level
Stack hygiene
- All resources have valid fxmanifest.lua
- ox_inventory or your chosen inventory only — no duplicates
- ox_lib installed and used by everything that supports it
- ox_target or qb-target replacing markers everywhere
- Database on oxmysql, not legacy adapters
- All test resources removed
Content
- 200–400 vehicles, no duplicates by hash
- 5–20 MLOs, all collision-tested
- Police / EMS / mechanic jobs functional
- Inventory items with images
- Loading screen with rules and Discord link
Operations
- Discord webhook logs configured
- txAdmin scheduled restarts configured
- MySQL backups every 6 hours, off-host
- Staff Discord roles defined
- Rules document published
- Application form (if whitelisted) live
Marketing
- Server logo and banner finalized
- Discord invite link permanent and stable
- Tebex / Stripe configured if monetizing
- Trailer or screenshots ready
- Launch date announced 1 week ahead
Day-of
- Run a private soft-launch with 10 trusted players
- Watch resmon during peak
- Have at least 3 staff online for the first 4 hours
- Acknowledge bugs publicly, don't hide them
Wrapping up
Every item you skip becomes a Tuesday-morning emergency three weeks later. Spend the time now — you will earn the time back tenfold.
Written by
Sarah Chen
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