Once your local install works, you can turn it into a real private server.
Ports to forward on your router:
Security warning: The original RayCity server files have no built-in SQL injection protection. Do NOT open them to the public internet without placing them behind a VPN or reverse proxy like nginx with SQL filtering. Many old RayCity private servers have been wiped by hackers wiping the Account table for fun.
Better alternative: Use a free VPN like ZeroTier or Radmin VPN. Give your friends your virtual IP. They connect exactly as if it were localhost.
Even veteran server administrators run into issues. Here’s a cheat sheet for the most common RayCity server file install problems.
| Error | Likely Cause | Solution |
| :--- | :--- | :--- |
| "Failed to connect to DB" | Wrong ODBC name or password | Re-run odbcad32.exe. Ensure DSN name matches exactly RayCity. |
| WorldServer.exe vanishes instantly | Missing SQL table or wrong port | Open SSMS. Ensure the database has 40+ tables. Re-run the restore script. |
| AuthServer says "Port in use" | Another app (like Skype or VMware) is on port 9000 | Change AuthServer.ini port to 9001 and update client accordingly. |
| Client says "Cannot connect to server" | Client IP mismatch | Double-check client's ipconfig.txt. It must be 127.0.0.1 or your LAN IP. |
| "ODBC Driver 17 not found" | Wrong ODBC architecture | You ran 32-bit ODBC admin, but SQL is 64-bit. Always use C:\Windows\SysWOW64\odbcad32.exe for 32-bit apps. |
You now have a functional RayCity server for offline play or small LAN parties. The server files are not perfect—some quests may be broken, and NPC AI in early builds is limited. However, the core driving and car customization work.
Next steps:
Disclaimer: This article is archived for historical and educational purposes. RayCity and its assets are property of their respective owners.
Setting up a private server for RayCity (the defunct MMO racing game) typically involves configuring an emulator or leaked server files to run on a local environment. Because the official game was discontinued years ago, modern setups rely on community-developed files. Phase 1: Prerequisites & Files Before starting, ensure you have the following components:
RayCity Server Files: Usually found on community forums like RageZone or private Discord groups. These often include a Server folder and a Client folder.
Database Management: Most setups require Microsoft SQL Server (MSSQL) (Express version is usually sufficient).
Environment: A Windows-based environment (Windows 10/11 or Windows Server) is standard for these files.
Visual C++ Redistributables: Install the latest Visual C++ Redistributable packages (x86 and x64) to prevent DLL errors. Phase 2: Database Setup
Install MSSQL: Install SQL Server and SQL Server Management Studio (SSMS). raycity server file install
Restore Databases: In SSMS, right-click "Databases" and select Restore Database. Locate the .bak files provided in your RayCity server files (typically named RayCity, Account, etc.).
User Credentials: Create a dedicated SQL user (e.g., rc_admin) with a password. Ensure this user has "db_owner" permissions for all restored RayCity databases. Phase 3: Server Configuration
Locate Config Files: Inside your server folder, look for .ini or .xml configuration files (e.g., ServerConfig.ini, DBConfig.ini).
IP Configuration: Open these files in a text editor. Change any placeholder IP addresses (like 127.0.0.1 or 1.2.3.4) to your machine's Local IP or 127.0.0.1 for local-only play.
Database Connection: Update the connection strings with your SQL Server instance name, the database names, and the username/password you created in Phase 2. Phase 4: Client Setup
Server List/IP: In the game client folder, you must point the client to your server. This is often done by editing a serverlist.bin or Config.ini file.
Launcher: Some private server packs include a custom launcher. If not, you may need to create a .bat file to start the RayCity.exe with specific parameters (e.g., RayCity.exe /ip:127.0.0.1 /port:xxxx). Phase 5: Launching the Server Once your local install works, you can turn
Run Services: Launch the server executables in order. Typically: LoginServer.exe WorldServer.exe ZoneServer.exe
Check Logs: Watch the console windows for "Ready" or "Connected to DB" messages. If they close immediately, check the Logs folder for error details. Troubleshooting Tips
Firewall: Ensure you create Inbound Rules in Windows Firewall for the game ports (standard ports often include 80, 8080, 2000-5000 range).
ODBC Connections: If the server fails to connect to the database, you may need to set up System DSN entries in the "ODBC Data Source Administrator" (32-bit or 64-bit depending on the server files). How to Set Up Gaming Server: Step-by-Step Guide 2025
Since "RayCity" is a classic MMO racing game that was officially shut down and is now primarily kept alive through private servers, installing the server files can be complex.
Here is a helpful review and guide regarding the RayCity Server File Installation process, broken down by what you typically encounter and what you need to look out for.
A typical RayCity server "repack" or leak contains three main directories: Security warning: The original RayCity server files have
.sql scripts or a detached database (.mdf / .ldf) meant to be attached to MSSQL.