Project Zomboid: Downloading Your World
Whether you want to switch hosts, move to a local PC, or simply create an off-site backup, downloading your save is critical. PZ saves are large and complex, containing thousands of tiny chunk files.
1. The Folder
Save data resides in /Saves/Multiplayer/. The default folder name is usually `servertest` or `pzserver`.
2. The Configs
The save file ONLY contains the map and players. It does NOT contain your settings. You must also download the `/Server/` folder for `.ini` and `.lua` files.
3. The Method
Because there are thousands of files, Zip/Archive the folder on the server first, then download the single zip file. Do not drag-and-drop the raw folder via FTP.
Step-by-Step Guide
- Stop the Server. (Crucial to prevent database corruption).
- Connect via FileZilla or use the Web File Manager.
- Navigate to `Zomboid/Saves/Multiplayer/`.
- Right-click your save folder (e.g., `servertest`) and select Archive / Zip.
- Wait for the server to compress the files. This might take a few minutes if the world is large.
- Download the `servertest.zip` file to your PC.
- Navigate to `Zomboid/Server/`.
- Download the `servertest.ini`, `servertest_SandboxVars.lua`, and `servertest_spawnregions.lua` files.
Restoring locally
If you want to play this save in Single Player or host it locally:
- Press `Windows + R` and type `%userprofile%\Zomboid\Saves\Multiplayer\`.
- Unzip your folder here.
- Note: Characters might not transfer perfectly from MP to SP without database editing.
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