SCP: Secret Laboratory Server Performance
SCP:SL is usually more sensitive to fast single-thread CPU than to huge RAM allocations. Full rounds, AI, player movement and plugins all compete for timely simulation.
Use the slot tier as a load test
| Community | Starting RAM | CPU focus |
|---|---|---|
| Private, around 20 slots | 4 GB | One or two fast cores. |
| Listed, around 30 slots | 6 GB | Fast main thread with plugin headroom. |
| Public, 50 slots | 8 GB+ | CPU headroom during full rounds and events. |
When players report lag
- Compare an empty round with a full round.
- Temporarily disable recently added plugins.
- Check server tick or frame warnings in the console and logs.
- Measure CPU saturation and memory pressure during the event.
- Reduce slots only after plugin and configuration causes are excluded.
A server that feels fine with five friends has not been tested at its advertised capacity. Schedule a private full-slot event before opening a public community.
See plugin compatibility and SCP:SL hosting on high-clock nodes.