> ## Documentation Index
> Fetch the complete documentation index at: https://help.freakhosting.com/llms.txt
> Use this file to discover all available pages before exploring further.

# How to Update Your 7 Days to Die Server (Version and Beta Branch)

> How to update a 7 Days to Die server: Auto Update installs the current version (V3.4.0) on restart; use Beta Branch and a reinstall for other builds.

A FREAKHOSTING 7 Days to Die server updates itself: with **Auto Update** set to `1` on **Startup** (the default), it installs the latest stable version every time it starts, so a restart is all you need. At the time of writing the stable version is V3.4.0. To run an experimental or older build, enter its branch name in **Beta Branch** and reinstall.

| Fact | Value |
| - | - |
| Stable version (October 2026) | V3.4.0 |
| Check your version | Type `version` in the panel console |
| Auto update | **Auto Update** = `1` (default) on **Startup** |
| Other builds | **Beta Branch** on **Startup**, then reinstall |

## How to check your server version

Type `version` in the panel [Console](https://help.freakhosting.com/portals/game-panel/how-to-use-the-server-console.md). It prints the game version, for example `V 3.4.0 (b9)`, and the loaded mods. The telnet banner at each start also shows `Server version`.

## How to update to the latest version

**1. Check Auto Update**

Open [Startup](https://help.freakhosting.com/portals/game-panel/how-to-configure-startup-variables.md) and make sure **Auto Update** is `1`.

**2. Back up**

Make a [backup](https://help.freakhosting.com/portals/game-panel/how-to-create-and-restore-backups.md) before a big update.

**3. Restart**

[Restart the server](https://help.freakhosting.com/portals/game-panel/how-to-start-stop-and-restart-your-game-server.md). It downloads the update, then starts.

**4. Check mods**

Mods can break after a game update. Update them or remove them if the server doesn't start.

## How to switch to an experimental or older build

**1. Back up**

Make a backup. Saves made on a newer version may not load on an older one.

**2. Set Beta Branch**

On **Startup**, enter the branch name in **Beta Branch**, for example `latest_experimental`. Leave it empty for the normal stable version.

**3. Reinstall**

Switching branches needs a reinstall to work properly. See [settings and reinstall](https://help.freakhosting.com/portals/game-panel/how-to-manage-server-settings-and-reinstall.md).

**4. Match the players**

Players pick the same branch in Steam under the game's **Properties** > **Betas**.

## Before a major update (for example V2 to V3)

Major versions change a lot. V3.0 replaced many `serverconfig.xml` settings with the sandbox code, and the game shows a warning when it loads a save from an older major version. Set up your rules with a [sandbox code](https://help.freakhosting.com/games/7-days-to-die/how-to-use-a-sandbox-code-on-your-7-days-to-die-server.md) and consider a [fresh save](https://help.freakhosting.com/games/7-days-to-die/how-to-reset-your-7-days-to-die-world.md).

## Frequently asked questions

### Why can't players join after an update?

The players' game and the server must run the same version. Players update the game in Steam, or the server and players switch to the same branch.

### Can I stop my server from updating?

Set **Auto Update** to `0` on **Startup**. Players on the newest version then can't join until you update.

### Do I lose my world when I update?

No. Updates keep the files in `.local/share/7DaysToDie/Saves/`. A reinstall to switch branches can change server files, so back up first.

## Related guides

> [card] [7 Days to Die server guide](https://help.freakhosting.com/games/7-days-to-die/7-days-to-die-server-hosting-guide.md)
>
> Every 7 Days to Die page in one place.

> [card] [Sandbox code](https://help.freakhosting.com/games/7-days-to-die/how-to-use-a-sandbox-code-on-your-7-days-to-die-server.md)
>
> Game rules since V3.0.

> [card] [Install mods](https://help.freakhosting.com/games/7-days-to-die/how-to-install-mods-on-7-days-to-die.md)
>
> Mods for your version.

> [card] [Not showing in the list](https://help.freakhosting.com/games/7-days-to-die/7-days-to-die-server-not-showing-in-list.md)
>
> Version and browser issues.

***

> [!NOTE]
>
> **Tested by the FREAKHOSTING team** on our Game Panel on 31 October 2026 (7 Days to Die V3.4.0 b9); versions checked against the official [7 Days to Die news](https://7daystodie.com/news/). Steps may differ slightly if the game changes.

> [!NOTE]
>
> ### Need Extra Help?
>
> If you encounter any issues, our support team is ready to assist:
>
> * **Live Chat:** Quick assistance via our website.
> * **Support Ticket:** [Open a Ticket](https://freakhosting.com/clientarea/submitticket.php)
> * **Discord:** [Join our Community](https://discord.gg/freakhosting)
> * **Email:** [support@freakhosting.com](mailto:support@freakhosting.com)

> [!TIP]
>
> ### Save on Your Hosting
>
> Ready to upgrade your hosting? Use code **KB20** at checkout for **20% off** your first order!

***

**Last Updated:** October 2026


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