> ## 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 Set Up Altis Life in Arma 3

> Master the deployment of the Altis Life RPG framework on your Arma 3 server. Learn how to configure MySQL databases, extDB3 bridges, and server-side logic.

## Roleplay Framework: Altis Life

Altis Life is the definitive roleplay framework for Arma 3, transforming the military simulator into a persistent civilian life simulator featuring police forces, medical responders, and complex illegal economies. Unlike standard missions, Altis Life requires a specialized backend infrastructure including a MySQL database and server-side extensions to handle player persistence.

<CardGroup cols={2}>
  <Card title="Difficulty" icon="gauge-low">
    Advanced
  </Card>

  <Card title="Time" icon="clock">
    20 Minutes
  </Card>
</CardGroup>

***

## Phase 1: Database Infrastructure

Persistence in Altis Life is handled via MySQL. You must set up the database before the server can store player positions, bank balances, or vehicle ownership.

<Steps>
  <Step title="Create the Database">
    Navigate to the **Databases** tab in your [Game Panel](https://panel.freakhosting.com) and create a new MySQL instance.
  </Step>

  <Step title="Import the Schema">
    Open **phpMyAdmin** via the panel link. Select your new database and use the **Import** tab to upload the `altis_life.sql` file provided with your mission framework.
  </Step>

  <Step title="Configure the Bridge">
    Open `@extDB3/extdb3-conf.ini` in the File Manager. Locate the `[AltisLife]` block and enter your database credentials (IP, Username, Password).
  </Step>
</Steps>

***

## Phase 2: Server-Side Logic

Altis Life divides its execution between the client-side mission and the server-side backend.

<Tabs>
  <Tab title="The Mission (Client)">
    Upload your `Altis_Life.Altis.pbo` file to the `/mpmissions/` directory. This contains the UI, map markers, and player-facing scripts.
  </Tab>

  <Tab title="The Backend (Server)">
    Upload the `@life_server` folder to your server's root directory. This folder contains the sensitive logic for database communication and administrative functions.
  </Tab>
</Tabs>

***

## Phase 3: Secure Startup

To ensure your server runs correctly and securely, you must use the correct startup parameters.

<Steps>
  <Step title="Define Server Mods">
    In the **Startup** tab, add `@life_server` and `@extDB3` to the **Server Mods** field.

    * *Example:* `-servermod=@life_server;@extDB3`
  </Step>

  <Step title="Verify Client Mods">
    Ensure that these backend folders are **NOT** in the standard `-mod=` line.
  </Step>

  <Step title="Restart and Log">
    Restart the server and check the `extDB3` logs to confirm a successful database handshake.
  </Step>
</Steps>

<Important>
  ### Security Protocol

  **Never** list `@life_server` or `@extDB3` in the client-facing `-mod=` parameter. These directories contain your private database credentials and proprietary server logic. If listed there, any player joining the server could potentially download your secure configuration files.
</Important>

***

<Note>
  ### Need Extra Help?

  If you encounter any issues, our support team is ready to assist:

  * **Live Chat:** Quick assistance via our website.
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  * **Discord:** [Join our Community](https://discord.gg/freakhosting)
  * **Email:** [support@freakhosting.com](mailto:support@freakhosting.com)
</Note>

<Tip>
  ### Save on Your Hosting

  Ready to get a new server? Use code **KB20** at checkout for **20% off** your first month!
</Tip>

***

<div align="center">
  **Last Updated:** January 2026 | **Arma 3:** Citizen accepted.
</div>