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FiveM Guide

Getting Started with Your FiveM Server

This guide walks you through everything you need to get your FiveM server online for the first time, from getting your licence key to inviting your first players.

What is FiveM?

FiveM is a modification framework for Grand Theft Auto V that lets you run a custom multiplayer server with your own rules, gamemodes, scripts, and maps. It is free, but every player needs a legal copy of GTA V on PC.

Before you start

  • You need a Cfx.re (FiveM) account: create one free at forum.cfx.re.
  • Your server needs a licence key: see below.
  • Players must own GTA V on PC and install the free FiveM client.

Step 1: Get your FiveM licence key

FiveM requires a free licence key tied to your server's IP address before it will start.

  1. Log in to keymaster.fivem.net with your Cfx.re account.
  2. Click New Server.
  3. Enter your server's public IP (shown in the panel at the top of your server page) and a label.
  4. Copy the generated key, it looks like cfxk_XXXXXXXXXXXXXXXX.

Step 2: Enter the key in the panel

  1. Log in to the panel and open your FiveM server.
  2. Click Startup in the left sidebar.
  3. Paste your key into the FiveM License field and click Save.

Step 3: Start your server

Click Start on the Console tab. On the first boot, FiveM downloads its server files, this takes a couple of minutes. Watch the console for a line like citizen-server-impl/ Server started. Once you see it, your server is live.

Step 4: Connect and test

Open the FiveM client on your PC, click Direct Connect, and enter your server IP and port (default 30120). You should land in GTA V on your fresh server. See the How to Connect guide to share the address with friends.

What next?

  • Configure your server: set a name, password, and player limit in server.cfg.
  • Add resources: install gamemodes, scripts, and maps via the Files tab.
  • Set up admins: grant trusted players admin rights.
  • Enable txAdmin: the optional web management panel for running a full server with save data.

Need help? Open a ticket in our Discord or email support@8bit-hosting.com.

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