The "File Does Not Match the One on the Server" error in Project Zomboid occurs when a local file differs from the server host due to an outdated mod or a mismatched game version. A client-side solution is to unsubscribe from all mods in the Steam Workshop before attempting to reconnect. This forces the game to redownload the exact mod files required by the server, clearing out obsolete scripts. Server administrators can bypass this error by changing a setting in the configuration file. While this adjustment allows players to connect without identical files, it removes a core verification check and risks causing gameplay desynchronization.

Note: The following server fix may cause bugs and desync issues.
For a player fix, see here.

1. Log in to the BisectHosting Starbase panel.

2. Stop the server.

3. Go to the Files tab.

4. Find the following directory: /home/container/.cache/server

5. Open the [Save/Config].ini file. The file is labeled depending on the Save/Config Name on the Startup tab.

6. On the DoLuaChecksum= line, change the value to false.

7. Press Save.

8. Start the server.

How to Fix File Mismatch Errors on a Project Zomboid Client

1. From the Steam Library, choose Project Zomboid.

2. Go to the Workshop tab.

3. Under Your Items, select Subscribed Items.

4. Hit Unsubscribe From All.

5. Click OK.

6. Join the server.

7. When prompted for missing mods, click Install.