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

# Installing a Resource

The general installation flow shared by every AceStudios resource.

Each product has its own **Installation** page with exact steps. This page covers the parts they all share.

## 1. Download

Log in to the [Cfx Portal](https://portal.cfx.re) with the Cfx.re account that bought the resource, open **Granted Assets**, and download it.

## 2. Place the folder

Extract the archive and move the resource folder into your server's `resources` directory, for example:

```
resources/
└── [acestudios]/
    ├── ace_squadlinkV2/
    └── ace_reconoptics/
```

{% hint style="info" %}
A folder in square brackets such as `[acestudios]` is only a category for organizing resources. FiveM still finds the resources inside it.
{% endhint %}

## 3. Add to `server.cfg`

Start the resource **after** its dependencies:

{% code title="server.cfg" %}

```properties
ensure oxmysql
ensure ox_lib
# framework (qb-core / qbx_core / es_extended) if the resource needs one
# inventory, target, garage and key resources

ensure ace_squadlinkV2
```

{% endcode %}

{% hint style="warning" %}
**Exception: ox\_inventory items.** [Advanced MultiPacks](/docs/inventory-and-items/advanced-multipacks.md) and [Serial Scratcher](/docs/inventory-and-items/serial-scratcher.md) must start **after `ox_lib` but before `ox_inventory`**. See [ox\_inventory Items](/docs/guides/ox-inventory-items.md).
{% endhint %}

## 4. Configure

Every resource ships with editable files that are excluded from escrow, such as `config.lua` and locale files. Everything else is encrypted and cannot be edited.

| What you can edit             | Where                                                                                   |
| ----------------------------- | --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- |
| Settings                      | `config.lua` / `Config.lua`                                                             |
| Translations                  | `locales/` (where included)                                                             |
| Framework / inventory bridges | `bridge/`, `framework/`, `integrations/`, `server/InventoryBridge.lua` (where included) |

{% hint style="danger" %}
Don't edit or replace escrowed files, including files named `LockedConfig.lua`. Modified encrypted files won't load.
{% endhint %}

## 5. Restart and check the console

Restart the server and watch the console while the resource starts. Most AceStudios resources print a clear message when a dependency or setting is wrong.

## Updating a resource

1. Back up your `config.lua`, locale edits and any other files you customized.
2. Download the new version from the Cfx Portal.
3. Replace the resource folder, then put your customizations back. **Compare configs**, because new versions can add options.
4. Restart the server.