: Run ps aux | grep 7DaysToDieServer or pgrep -a 7DaysToDie . If the process isn't running, something caused it to crash.
: Ensure your antivirus or firewall is not blocking the server's access to its own files. Add exclusions for the server installation folder and the AppData roaming folder. Check logs for specific errors : Look at the output_log.txt
If you are a 7 Days to Die (7DTD) dedicated server owner, few things are more frustrating than seeing your console logs stop abruptly at "Initializing...". Even worse is when it hangs on "Initializing Exclusive" or "Initializing World", leaving your players stranded and your base at risk of decay.
7 Days To Die | Dedicated Server vs Singleplayer - Pine Hosting 7 days to die server stuck initializing exclusive
[Isolate the Issue] ──> [1. Verify Server Files] ──> [2. Disable EAC/EOS] ──> [3. Check Security Exclusions] 1. Verify and Clean Game Files
Go to and click Verify integrity of game files . Exclude from Security Software
: Rename your server's Mods folder to Mods_Backup . This completely disables all modifications without deleting them. : Run ps aux | grep 7DaysToDieServer or pgrep -a 7DaysToDie
Or for firewalld:
Getting stuck on "Initializing World" (or receiving a message that the server is still initializing) in 7 Days to Die
On Linux servers, you may see [UnityMemory] Configuration Parameters - Can be set up in boot.config messages. This is usually informational, but if the server hangs, you can pre-configure the memory parameters: Add exclusions for the server installation folder and
If simple restarts don't work, the server might be failing to reach necessary authentication servers.
Imagine you walk into a public restroom (your network port). You turn the lock on the door to "Vacant" (Exclusive). You walk in, but the door jams. You are stuck inside waiting. Outside, the server console keeps saying "Initializing..." because it hasn't finished locking the door.
: Execute app_update 251570 validate to force check the entire installation.
If you're seeing your server stuck on the "Initializing World" screen, you're not alone. This common hang-up typically occurs when a server is rebooting or if there’s an underlying issue with the world save files. While it often just requires patience during a fresh boot, a persistent hang usually signals a deeper technical problem. 1. Common Causes for the "Initializing" Hang