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The Startup section in Pterodactyl allows you to configure how your server starts and which files, packages, and arguments are used when launching your application.
You can access it from your server’s Startup tab.

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Startup Command

The Startup Command is the command Pterodactyl uses to launch your server. This is normally pre-configured by NexCloud based on the selected Egg and should only be changed if you know exactly what you are modifying.
Important: An incorrect startup command can prevent your server from starting.

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Docker Image

The Docker Image determines the runtime environment used by your server. For example, Node.js hosting may provide different Node.js versions such as:
  • Node.js 22
  • Node.js 24
  • Other versions available for your Egg
Select the Docker Image that matches the requirements of your application.

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Variables

Depending on the selected Egg, you may see different startup variables.

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Git Repo Address

Used when you want the server to download your application from a Git repository. Example:
Leave this empty if you are uploading your files manually.

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Install Branch

Specifies which Git branch should be installed. For example:
This is normally used together with Git Repo Address.

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User Uploaded Files

Controls whether the installation process should skip the normal installation process because you are uploading the application files yourself. Enable this when your application is already uploaded and does not require the Egg’s installation process.

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Auto Update

When enabled with a Git repository, the server can pull the latest files from the configured repository during startup. Only enable this if you understand how your repository deployment works.

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Additional Node Packages

Allows you to install additional Node.js packages required by your application. Multiple packages can be entered separated by spaces. Example:

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Git Username

Used when authentication is required for a Git repository. For public repositories, this is generally not required.

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Git Access Token

Used to authenticate with a private Git repository. Never share your Git access token publicly.

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Uninstall Node Packages

Packages listed here can be removed during the installation process. This is generally only required for specific application setups.

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Main File

The Main File is the file used to start your application. For example:
Depending on your application, this could also be:
  • index.js
  • app.js
Make sure the file exists in your server’s directory.

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Additional Arguments

Additional arguments can be passed to the Node.js runtime or the startup command. Only use this field when your application specifically requires additional arguments.

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Changing Startup Settings

Before changing any startup variable:
  1. Stop your server.
  2. Open Startup.
  3. Change the required setting.
  4. Save the configuration.
  5. Start your server.
  6. Check the console for errors.
If the server fails to start after changing the Startup configuration, revert the change or contact NexCloud Support.
Tip: Do not change the Startup Command unless required. Most applications only need the correct Docker Image, Main File, and required Environment Variables.