Server Manager — framework-dependent
For the DFBHD host machine. Requires the .NET 10 runtime plus .NET Framework 4.8.1 when using the NetLimiter bridge.
Installation
Setup guide
HawkSync installation
Use the official GitLab release feed or the Devilish Services HawkSync Server Manager download page. Avoid repackaged builds from unverified third-party sources.
Choose a package
Server Manager — self-contained
Bundles the main .NET runtime. .NET Framework 4.8.1 may still be required for the NetLimiter bridge.
Remote Client — framework-dependent
For remote administration workstations. Requires the .NET 10 runtime.
Remote Client — self-contained
Bundles its main runtime and is the simplest Remote Client choice for machines without .NET 10 installed.
Component runtime map
| Component | Purpose | Runtime |
|---|---|---|
| ServerManager | Main local server management application | .NET 10.0 |
| RemoteClient | Remote HawkSync administration client | .NET 10.0 |
| NetLimiterBridge | Network-limiting integration bridge | .NET Framework 4.8.1 |
| HawkSyncShared | Shared application library | .NET Standard / .NET 10.0 |
System requirements
- Windows 10 or Windows 11, x64
- For framework-dependent builds: .NET 10 runtime
- For NetLimiter Bridge: .NET Framework 4.8.1 runtime
- Write access to the selected HawkSync installation and data folders
- Firewall rules for the configured game and HawkSync API ports
Install or update
- Back up the current installation. Copy configuration, databases, playlists, logs and other HawkSync data to a safe location.
- Download the correct edition. Match Server Manager or Remote Client and framework-dependent or self-contained packaging.
- Validate the package. Compare a published checksum or signature when the release provides one.
- Extract to a clean folder. Do not overwrite an actively running installation. Stop HawkSync and the game server first.
- Restore configuration carefully. Copy only the required settings and data, especially when release notes mention schema or configuration changes.
- Launch the application. Run
ServerManager.exeorRemoteClient.exe. - Test before production use. Confirm server startup, API connectivity, remote login, maps, player controls and statistics.
Microsoft SmartScreen
An unsigned or newly published build may trigger Microsoft SmartScreen. Confirm that the file came from an official HawkSync channel and validate any available checksum before choosing More info and Run anyway. Do not bypass warnings for files from an unknown source.
Before first Server Manager startup
When attaching HawkSync Server Manager to an existing DFBHD installation, review the Server Management dashboard guidance about legacy files such as DFV.cfg and autores.bin. Back them up before removal.
Security reminder
HawkSync is under active development. Keep backups, protect API credentials, restrict management ports, use TLS for public web access, and review release notes before every update.