> ## 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 Custom Loading Screens in DayZ

> Establish your server's brand from the first second. Learn how to configure custom loading screens using automated mods or manual PBO packaging.

## Professional Community Branding

First impressions are important for community growth. Because loading screen assets are managed exclusively by the game client, you cannot simply replace an image file within the server's root directory. Instead, you must implement a modification that instructs the client's engine to override the default vanilla visuals with your custom branding. The FREAKHOSTING Game Panel supports several methods for achieving this, ranging from automated URL-based solutions to custom PBO deployments.

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

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

***

## Deployment Strategies

Choose the method that best aligns with your technical proficiency and branding requirements.

<Tabs>
  <Tab title="Automated Method (Recommended)">
    This is the most efficient workflow, using a multipurpose mod like **DayZ-Editor-Loader** or a dedicated **Custom Loading Screen** framework from the Steam Workshop.

    1. Install the framework mod on your server and authorize its keys.
    2. Restart the server once to generate the `/profiles/` configuration.
    3. Locate the JSON config and paste a direct URL to your branding image (e.g., hosted on Imgur or a private CDN).
    4. The mod will automatically fetch and display this image to every player during the connection phase.
  </Tab>

  <Tab title="Manual PBO Packaging (Advanced)">
    Use this method if you require a truly independent, proprietary modification without external dependencies.

    1. use the **DayZ Tools** suite to convert your PNG/JPG assets into the engine-native `.edds` format.
    2. Architect a `config.cpp` file that defines the UI class overrides.
    3. Pack the assets into a `.pbo` file using the **Addon Builder**.
    4. Upload the resulting mod to your own Steam Workshop page and add it to your server's load order.
  </Tab>
</Tabs>

***

<Note>
  ### Graphic Resolution Best Practices

  To ensure your loading screen appears correctly across varied hardware, we recommend using a resolution of **1920x1080** or **2560x1440**. Ensure your logo is centrally positioned to avoid being cropped by the engine's dynamic aspect ratio adjustments.
</Note>

***

<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)
</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 | **Branding:** First impressions matter.
</div>