Server Not Starting Print

If your Garry’s Mod server fails to start, crashes instantly, or doesn’t appear online, follow this guide to identify and fix the issue using the FinnishHost Game Panel.

Step 1: Check the Web Console

After clicking Start, immediately open the Web Console. Look for errors such as:

Failed to load workshop addon
Unknown gamemode 'darkrp'
Couldn't find file 'server.cfg'

These indicate missing Workshop content, incorrect gamemode settings, or broken configuration files.

Step 2: Verify Your Commandline

Go to Commandline / Startup Parameters and confirm it includes valid parameters, for example:

-game garrysmod +gamemode sandbox +map gm_construct +maxplayers 20

If you’re using Workshop collections, ensure it includes:

+host_workshop_collection 123456789 +authkey YOUR_STEAM_API_KEY

Step 3: Check Gamemode Installation

If your server fails with an error like “Unknown gamemode,” verify that the folder exists in:

garrysmod/gamemodes/

Gamemode folders should contain an info.txt or addon.txt file inside. If not, reinstall the gamemode via Workshop or re-upload it manually.

Step 4: Review Your server.cfg File

Go to Configuration Files → server.cfg and confirm all settings are correct. A minimal working config should include:

hostname "My FinnishHost GMod Server"
rcon_password "StrongAdminPass"
sv_lan 0
sv_region 255

Step 5: Validate Workshop Addons

Broken or missing Workshop addons are the #1 cause of startup failure. If you’re using collections, make sure they are:

• Publicly visible on Steam.
• Using a valid API key linked to your Steam account.
• Added with the correct numeric ID (no spaces or extra characters).

Step 6: Test Without Addons

Temporarily remove Workshop parameters from your startup line and restart. If the server starts successfully, one of your addons is causing the issue. Re-add them one at a time to find the problem.

Step 7: Verify Game Files

Click Update Server Files in your Game Panel. This re-downloads missing or corrupted Garry’s Mod server files via SteamCMD.

Step 8: Reinstall (Last Resort)

If all else fails, use the Reinstall option in your control panel. This refreshes the server to a clean state. Always back up your server.cfg and Workshop IDs first.

Notes

We provide support for startup and hosting-related issues only. We don’t provide support for broken addons, Lua script errors, or custom gamemode development. Always test your configuration changes one step at a time.