Connection & Performance Troubleshooting

Having technical issues? This guide covers common problems and solutions.

Connection Issues

Can't See Server in Browser

Possible Causes:

• Server is down for maintenance
• Outdated game client
• Firewall blocking connection

Solutions:

1. Check Discord announcements for maintenance
2. Verify game is up to date (Steam should auto-update)
3. Add Project Zomboid to firewall exceptions
4. Try direct connect with IP address

Getting Kicked During Connection

Possible Causes:

• Mod mismatch
• Timeout during loading
• Server full

Solutions:

1. Verify you have all required mods installed
2. Wait a few minutes and try again
3. Check server population - wait for slot to open

Frequent Disconnects

Possible Causes:

• Unstable internet connection
• High ping
• Router issues

Solutions:

1. Use wired connection instead of WiFi
2. Close bandwidth heavy applications
3. Restart router
4. Contact ISP if persistent

Performance Issues

Low FPS (Frames Per Second)

Quick Fixes:

1. Lower graphics settings
2. Reduce zoom level
3. Close unnecessary applications
4. Update graphics drivers

Graphics Settings to Adjust:

• Lighting: Medium or Low
• Model quality: Medium
• Corpses: Low number

Stuttering/Freezing

Causes:

• Insufficient RAM
• High server load
• Background applications

Solutions:

1. Close browser and other programs
2. Increase game RAM allocation:
   • Steam Library > Project Zomboid
   • Properties > Launch Options
   • Add: -Xmx4G (for 4GB RAM)
3. Verify game files integrity

Long Load Times

Normal:

• First connection: 2-5 minutes
• Subsequent connections: 30-90 seconds

If Excessive:

1. Install on SSD if possible
2. Reduce texture quality
3. Clear game cache
4. Defragment hard drive (HDD only)

Mod Issues

Missing Required Mods

How to Fix:

1. Check server mod list in Discord
2. Subscribe to all required mods
3. Launch game and let mods download
4. Restart game after downloads complete

Mod Errors on Join

Solution:

1. Unsubscribe from ALL server mods
2. Delete mod folder:
   C:\Program Files (x86)\Steam\steamapps\workshop\content\108600
3. Resubscribe to required mods
4. Let them redownload completely
5. Try connecting again

Mod Updates Breaking Connection

What to Do:

1. Wait for server to update
2. Check Discord for announcements
3. Don't unsub from updated mods
4. Server may need restart to match

Audio Issues

Can't Hear Others

Checklist:

• Is voice chat enabled in settings?
• Is volume turned up?
• Are they in voice range?
• Is your audio output device correct?

Solutions:

1. Settings > Audio > Voice Enable: ON
2. Check Windows audio mixer
3. Select correct output device
4. Restart game

Others Can't Hear You

Checklist:

• Is microphone enabled?
• Is push-to-talk working?
• Is input device correct?

Solutions:

1. Settings > Audio > Voice Mode: Push to Talk
2. Set push-to-talk key
3. Check Windows microphone permissions
4. Test microphone in Windows settings

Echo/Feedback

Causes:

• Multiple audio sources
• Discord open simultaneously

Solution:

1. Use headphones
2. Mute Discord when using in-game voice
3. Reduce microphone sensitivity

Character/Inventory Issues

Character Not Loading

1. Wait 2-3 minutes (server may be loading)
2. If stuck, disconnect and reconnect
3. Create support ticket if persists

Lost Items After Disconnect

If Server Crashed:

• Items may be restored by staff
• Create ticket with details

If You Disconnected:

• Items should be saved
• Contact staff if missing valuables

Can't Access Containers

Solutions:

1. Try relogging
2. Make sure container isn't locked
3. Report to staff if persistent

Client Settings for Best Performance

Recommended Settings (60 FPS Target)

Display:

• Fullscreen: On
• VSync: Off (unless screen tearing)
• Resolution: Native
• Render Scale: 100%

Graphics:

• Lighting: Medium
• Model Quality: Medium
• Corpses: 5-10
• Shadows: Off/Low

Lower-End PC Settings (30 FPS Target)

Display:

• Fullscreen: On
• Resolution: 1280x720

Graphics:

• Lighting: Low
• Model Quality: Low
• Corpses: 0-5
• Shadows: Off

Getting Help

Before Asking for Help

1. Read this guide
2. Check Discord support channel(s)
3. Verify game files
4. Restart computer

Creating a Support Ticket

Include:

• Detailed description of issue
• When it started
• What you've tried
• Screenshots/videos if relevant
• System specs (CPU, RAM, GPU)

Emergency Situations

If you're:

• Stuck in a wall
• Falling through map
• Inventory bugged with valuable items

Do:

• Create ticket immediately
• Stop moving
• Don't disconnect if possible
• Wait for staff assistance

Most technical issues have simple solutions. Don't hesitate to ask for help. The staff and community are here to assist you!