Hosting an Insurgency: Sandstorm server
Insurgency: Sandstorm is a tactical shooter from New World Interactive, published by Focus Entertainment, with no crosshair, a minimal HUD and lethal ballistics. PvP modes such as Push, Firefight and Skirmish run up to 14v14, and co-op Checkpoint puts a squad against AI.
The Insurgency: Sandstorm Dedicated Server Tool is free through SteamCMD for Windows and Linux. A public server needs a Game Server Login Token (GSLT) from Steam, and an unpassworded server with a GameStats token lets players earn XP. Community servers are for PC players on Steam and the Epic Games Store, while console players use their platform's own matchmaking.
What to compare
- Config access. Game.ini, Engine.ini and your map cycle file control modes, rules, bot counts and mods, so direct file access matters.
- mod.io support. Mods and custom maps come from mod.io. The server needs a mod.io access token in Engine.ini and a Mods.txt list, so check the host lets you set both up.
- CPU for bots. Co-op Checkpoint fills the map with AI, and bot pathing leans heavily on the processor. A fast CPU keeps co-op smooth.
- Slot count. A 28-player PvP server and an 8-player co-op server are very different loads. Compare plans by the mode you plan to run.
- GSLT and GameStats. If you want players to earn XP, the host must let you set your GSLT and GameStats token at launch.
- Ping and DDoS protection. Firefights are decided in moments, so pick a datacentre near your players. Public PvP servers also attract attacks.
See the current Insurgency: Sandstorm hosting deals for offers from listed providers. For a whole machine, see dedicated servers.
Insurgency: Sandstorm server hosting FAQ
How many players can a Sandstorm server hold?
PvP modes support up to 14v14. Co-op lobbies are smaller, with eight players as standard.
Can I run mods on an Insurgency: Sandstorm server?
Yes. Mods and maps from mod.io are loaded by the server once it has a mod.io access token and a list of mod IDs, and joining players receive them automatically.
Can console players join a community server?
No. Community servers are only available to PC players on Steam and the Epic Games Store.
Can I host an Insurgency: Sandstorm server for free?
Yes, if you run the free Dedicated Server Tool yourself on Windows or Linux. It is only online while that machine is on, so an always-on public server is easier to run on a rented host.