Topic Content:

One of the most frustrating moments for a DayZ Server Administrator is when the server refuses to start or loot stops spawning. 99% of the time, the culprit is a small XML syntax error.

In this guide, we will cover the most common mistakes and show you how to find and fix them in seconds.

1. Missing or Misplaced Tags

Every opening tag must have a closing tag. If you open a <type>, you must close it with </type>.

• The Error:

  XML

   

  <type name="AKM">
      <nominal>20</nominal>
  // Missing </type> here
  

• The Fix: Always double-check that every block of code is properly closed.

2. Case Sensitivity

XML is strictly case-sensitive. Nominal is NOT the same as nominal.

• The Error: <Nominal>10</Nominal>

• The Fix: Ensure you are using the exact casing required by DayZ server files (usually all lowercase for parameters).

3. Illegal Characters (Quotes and Symbols)

Using “Smart Quotes” (curly quotes from Word or mobile phones) instead of straight quotes will break your file.

• The Error: name=“Mag_AKM_30Rnd”

• The Fix: Always use a code editor like Notepad++ or VS Code to ensure you are using standard straight quotes: name="Mag_AKM_30Rnd".

4. Duplicate Entries

If you have the same item name defined twice in types.xml, the server will ignore one or crash.

• The Fix: Use CTRL + F to search for the item name before adding a new one to ensure it’s unique.

🛠️ How to Validate Your Files (The Easy Way)

Don’t guess! Use a validator before uploading your files to the server:

1. Online XML Validator: Search for “XML Validator” on Google and paste your code.

2. Notepad++ Plugin: Install the “XML Tools” plugin. It has a “Check XML Syntax” feature that points directly to the line with the error.

3. Browser Check: Drag and drop your .xml file into a web browser (Chrome/Edge). If the file is broken, the browser will show you exactly which line has the error.

Still getting errors? Copy and paste the problematic part of your code as a reply below, and our community will help you spot the mistake!