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Garry’s Mod server settings explained

Updated 2 November 2026 · 14 settings · Garry’s Mod · By Exclsv Support

Every setting in the Garry’s Mod settings form in Exclsv HQ: what it does, where it lives, its default and the values it takes. File settings are in server.cfg; to edit it by hand, stop the server first, because a game can rewrite its settings while it runs.

On Exclsv you don’t need to edit the file by hand: change a setting in HQ’s form and HQ writes it for you, with the server stopped.

Settings marked “Set in HQ” are changed in HQ’s form only: HQ applies them every time the server starts, so an edit elsewhere doesn’t last.

Server

Garry’s Mod settings: Server
SettingWhereWhat it doesDefaultValues
Server namehostnameName in the server browser.An Exclsv Garry's Mod server
Join passwordSet in HQEmpty for none.—
Loading screen linksv_loadingurlWeb page players see while joining.Empty
Max playersSet by your planSet by your plan on every start.—

Game

Garry’s Mod settings: Game
SettingWhereWhat it doesDefaultValues
GamemodeSet in HQsandbox, darkrp, terrortown or any installed gamemode folder.sandbox
MapSet in HQThe map the server starts on.gm_flatgrass
Workshop collectionSet in HQThe number at the end of your Steam Workshop collection link. The server downloads it on start and players get it when they join. The collection must be public.EmptyUp to 20 characters
TickrateSet in HQUpdates per second. 22 is normal; higher costs CPU.2210 to 100
Noclipsbox_noclipPlayers can fly through walls in Sandbox.OffOn or off
God modesbox_godmodePlayers can't be hurt in Sandbox.OffOn or off
Props per playersbox_maxpropsMost props each player can spawn.1500 to 2000
Client Luasv_allowcsluaPlayers can run their own Lua (cheating risk).OffOn or off
Lua refreshSet in HQReload Lua files when they change. For developers.OffOn or off

Set by HQ

Garry’s Mod settings: Set by HQ
SettingWhereWhat it doesDefaultValues
Steam login tokenSet in HQEvery server needs one to be listed. HQ creates it for you.—

Sources

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