Guide

How much RAM does a game server need?

How much RAM a game server needs, what pushes memory use up, and how to pick the right game server plan in Australia.

Published · Updated

Memory is the first limit you hit

Memory (RAM) is usually the resource that decides whether a game server runs well. When a server runs out of memory it stutters, drops players or crashes, no matter how fast the processor is. That is why every ASPEC Hosting game lists a minimum and a recommended amount of memory, and why the control panel refuses to install a game on a plan that is too small.

The table below covers the games you can order instantly. It comes straight from our published game templates, so it always matches what checkout enforces. For any other game in our library, ask us and we recommend a plan.

Published game server requirements
GameMinimum RAMRecommended RAMStorageCPU class
Garry's Mod4 GB4 GB15 GBAny
Minecraft2 GB4 GB10 GBAny
Palworld8 GB8 GB30 GBperformance
Rust8 GB8 GB20 GBperformance
S&box4 GB8 GB20 GBperformance
Terraria1 GB2 GB5 GBAny

What changes how much RAM you need

The minimum gets a server started. These are the things that push real usage above it:

  • Player count. Every connected player loads part of the world into memory.
  • World or map size. Large, explored Minecraft worlds and big Rust maps hold more in memory.
  • Mods, plugins and addons. Modpacks, Oxide plugins and large Garry's Mod Workshop collections add up quickly.
  • Entities. Farms, bases, vehicles and Pals all use memory while their area is loaded.

Choosing a plan

Start from the game's minimum, then size up if you expect a busy server or heavy mods. Light games for a small group sit comfortably on Standard, modded and busier servers suit Performance, and the heaviest survival games need Extreme.

Because an ASPEC Hosting plan is game server capacity rather than a single game, you can move to another compatible game later without buying a new plan. If a game needs more than your plan has, the control panel explains the gap instead of quietly upgrading you.

Host it in Australia

More guides