> For the complete documentation index, see [llms.txt](https://docs.edgegap.com/llms.txt). Markdown versions of documentation pages are available by appending `.md` to page URLs; this page is available as [Markdown](https://docs.edgegap.com/getting-started.md).

# Getting Started

Edgegap helps take your multiplayer game online and operate game servers cost-efficiently:

<table data-view="cards"><thead><tr><th align="center"></th><th data-hidden data-card-cover data-type="files"></th></tr></thead><tbody><tr><td align="center"><strong>1. Build your Server</strong></td><td><a href="/files/Hk85MEqaOwJC59GIb7l2">/files/Hk85MEqaOwJC59GIb7l2</a></td></tr><tr><td align="center"><strong>2. Upload Build</strong></td><td><a href="/files/RWPWVGE2XojZmzUC3wau">/files/RWPWVGE2XojZmzUC3wau</a></td></tr><tr><td align="center"><strong>3. Deploy and Connect</strong></td><td><a href="/files/7X3gXtLZ8N65HcJPIy4R">/files/7X3gXtLZ8N65HcJPIy4R</a></td></tr></tbody></table>

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[Register your Edgegap account for free and experience our platform today](https://app.edgegap.com/auth/register), no credit card required.
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## 🚀 Getting Started

Try one of our quick start guides supported with game engine plugins:

* [Unreal Engine](/unreal-engine.md),
* [Unity](/unity.md),
* Custom Runtime (coming soon).

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Start with a solid foundation, using one of [our free sample projects](/docs/sample-projects.md), easily adapted to suit your project.
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## ❓ What is Game Server Hosting & Orchestration?

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For players to connect and play online, you will need a game server in charge of authority, game logic, and gameplay mechanics. [This can be a dedicated server (remote, cloud or bare metal) or a player host (listen server with relay, peer to peer).](https://edgegap.com/blog/explainer-series-authoritative-servers-relays-peer-to-peer-understanding-networking-types-and-their-benefits-for-each-game-types)

Edgegap orchestrate game servers worldwide across 615+ physical locations and 17+ data center providers to ensure deployment to the ideal location. Our patented strategy is the best-in-class turnkey solution to reduce latency and minimize operating (hosting) cost for game studios, thanks to our pay-per-use pricing.

## 🟢 After your first deployment

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See [Matchmaking](/learn/matchmaking.md) and [Server Browser](/learn/server-browser.md) to get started with game client integration.
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To get the most out of Edgegap, see additional **Best Practices and Insights**:

* [prepare for launch - pre-launch checklist, including load testing](https://edgegap.com/blog/multiplayer-game-pre-launch-checklist),
* [scale to 14 million concurrent users in 60 minutes](https://edgegap.com/resources/performance-benchmark),
* [release updates with zero downtime and simplify DevOps](https://docs.edgegap.com/docs/gen2-matchmaker#rolling-updates-ab-tests).

## 📣 Community Discord

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[Join our Community Discord](https://discord.gg/MmJf8fWjnt) to network with studios and get support from our staff!
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