> ## 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 the DarkRP Gamemode in GMod

> Deploy the world's most popular Garry's Mod roleplay framework. Learn how to correctly install the DarkRP core and the mandatory modification addon.

## The Roleplay Foundation

**DarkRP** is the most widely played and celebrated gamemode in the history of Garry's Mod. Setting it up correctly requires a two-part technical architecture: the core gamemode logic and the **DarkRP Modification** addon. using the modification addon is a critical best practice, as it ensures your community's custom configurations - including jobs, economy settings, and shipment registries - are never lost or overwritten during an official gamemode update.

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

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

***

## Step 1: Core Engine Installation

Follow these steps to initialize the fundamental DarkRP logic on your server.

<Steps>
  <Step title="Acquire the Framework">
    Download the latest stable release of [DarkRP](https://github.com/FPtje/DarkRP) from the official GitHub repository.
  </Step>

  <Step title="Deploy to Gamemodes">
    Using the [Game Panel](https://games.freakhosting.com) File Manager or SFTP, upload the `darkrp` folder into your `/garrysmod/gamemodes/` directory.
  </Step>

  <Step title="Verify File Integrity">
    Confirm that the directory structure is correct. You should observe a file path similar to `/gamemodes/darkrp/gamemode/cl_init.lua`.
  </Step>
</Steps>

***

## Step 2: Implementing the Modification Addon

<Warning>
  ### Critical Technical Warning

  **Never edit the core files residing within the `/gamemodes/darkrp/` folder.** Any changes made there will be permanently purged during the next update. All customizations must be performed within the modification addon.
</Warning>

<Steps>
  <Step title="Acquire the Addon">
    Download the [DarkRP Modification](https://github.com/FPtje/darkrpmodification) repository.
  </Step>

  <Step title="Deploy to Addons">
    Upload the folder directly into your server's root `/garrysmod/addons/` directory.
  </Step>

  <Step title="Initialize Your Identity">
    This directory serves as your community's configuration hub:

    * **`lua/darkrp_customthings/jobs.lua`:** Define your [Police, Citizen, and VIP roles](/games/garrys-mod/configuring-darkrp-jobs).
    * **`lua/darkrp_config/settings.lua`:** Calibrate global variables like starting currency, tax rates, and prop limits.
  </Step>
</Steps>

***

## Step 3: Activation Workflow

Once your assets are deployed, you must instruct the Source engine to use the DarkRP logic.

<Steps>
  <Step title="Access Startup Parameters">
    Log in to your FREAKHOSTING dashboard and navigate to the **Startup** tab.
  </Step>

  <Step title="Define the Gamemode">
    Locate the **Gamemode** field and enter **`darkrp`** (all lowercase).
  </Step>

  <Step title="Initialize & Verify">
    **Restart** your server. Upon joining, the presence of the DarkRP HUD and the availability of the F4 management menu will confirm a successful deployment.
  </Step>
</Steps>

***

<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 | **GMod:** DarkRP deployed.
</div>