Server Overview 
Demise comes with a separate Server application that allows a player with an internet connection to host a server where multiple players can connect to and play together.  It is recommended that for servers with 5 or more people that the host be running at least 56K, but the best (of course) would be either Cable modem, T1, or faster.  However, somebody with a 28.8K modem should be able to host a 1 or 2 person server just fine. 

The Master Server 
Every Demise server has the choice of hooking into a 'master server'.  This is a primary server that keeps track of active servers on the internet.  If you want your server to be available to the public, set yourself up to hook into the master server.  If not, then leave the master server address blank. 

You can find the Master Server address on the main Demise web site.  Default master server address is www.artifact-entertainment.com.

It's not just an adventure!  It's a responsibility!  
Hosting a public Demise server isn't just fun, it's also a responsibility.  As a server host (or owner), it's your job to ensure that the players are happy, and that the proper 'trouble makers' (if any) are banned from the server.  It's also fun to communicate with the players on your server -- to let them know that you are there.  If you choose to run a Public server, it's a good idea to check new players for cheats (by viewing their characters), and keep track of how the game is going.  If you are running a private server (or a server that requires a password), you will have less responsibility since you will more than likely know everybody who logs in and plays. 
 

Click on picture for larger image

The Server Screen 
The server screen is where you will control most aspects of the server from.  It will allow activation and deactivation of the server, as well as provide a list of the connected players.  You will also have the ability to disconnect players from this screen and send messages to the players on the server.  Closing this screen does not deactivate the server. 

Configuration 
When you run your server for the first time, you will need to configure it.  You must select which IP address to bind (some systems may have multiple addresses depending on what type of network they are on), and which port to bind as well.  You can also set the maximum number of players from this location.  If you changed the bound address while the server is running, you will need to deactivate and reactivate the server for the new address to take effect. 

You can also set a Welcome message that is displayed to a player when they connect.  And if you wish to have your server available to the public, you can specify a master server address.  If you want privacy, you can specify a password that people will need to connect. 

Security 
<NOT YET IMPLEMENTED> 

Management 
Management is where you can regulate the players on the server in a more advanced format.  This includes monitoring transactions, messages, users, and banning players from the server.  Once they're banned, they only way they can get back in is if they use another machine or reinstall their operating system.  From this location you can also send private messages to players. 

A Final word...  
Many people are going to be excited about running their own server.  If you decide to set up a server for the public (or even private friends), be careful at how many people you can support with a given bandwidth.  A normal 33.6K modem should be able to support 2-3 players in the current version, and a 56K probably 5 or 6.  However, as more features are enabled, more data and bandwidth will be required to run a server.  By the time the final Demise server is released, a 56K probably won't be able to handle more than 3 (MAYBE 4) players, and an ISDN 5 or 6 (maybe even less -- I'm not sure).  Processor speed will also greatly affect performance.  If you have a 486, I wouldn't even try running with more than 1 person.  A Pentium 166 is a good starting machine for a small server. You should not play the game on the same machine running the server as problems can arise.

If you have ISDN, Cable Modem, or a Tx line, you shouldn't have any problems. 

Remember, that this is the second BETA release of the server and multiplayer code.  I'm sure issues will come up that I haven't seen at the time that I'm writing this.  Please be sure to report any problems you have so that I can make the next version not only more stable, but more feature rich and enjoyable!