Pre-Launch Checklist: 12 Things a Technical Lead Must Verify Before Opening a Self-Hosted 3D Virtual World
self-hosted 3D virtual worldpre-launch checklistprivate deploymentGenesisWebGL
Why You Need a Pre-Launch Checklist
Many teams only discover gaps in environment, data, models, and operations when they are about to open their self-hosted 3D virtual world to the public. Written from a technical-lead perspective, this checklist covers the 12 things to confirm before launch so you can avoid most day-one surprises.
1. Server and Environment (4 items)
- Domain and HTTPS: Public access must go through a filed domain with a valid HTTPS certificate; browsers only grant WebGL and mic or camera capabilities over HTTPS.
- Server specs: 3D rendering mostly uses the client GPU; server load is static assets and signaling. Start with something like 2 vCPU and 4 GB plus adequate bandwidth, then scale with concurrency.
- Browser support: Confirm the PC and mobile browsers your users actually use. WebGL2 covers mainstream environments; prepare a fallback notice for outdated devices.
- Bandwidth and concurrency: Models and textures dominate traffic. Estimate egress bandwidth as concurrent users multiplied by per-user asset size.
2. Data and Permissions (3 items)
- Data location: Confirm all user data and assets live on your own server or designated storage, not relayed through a third-party platform.
- Accounts and roles: Plan admin and regular-user roles; the super-admin entry needs independent protection.
- Backups: Database and uploaded assets need scheduled backups and a tested restore procedure.
3. Content and Models (3 items)
- Model size: Keep individual GLB files reasonable; compress oversized ones with Draco before upload.
- Load order: Load smaller models first, defer larger ones with a placeholder and progress indicator to avoid a long blank first screen.
- Mobile adaptation: Validate touch controls, resolution, and heat on real devices, not just desktop.
4. Operations and Compliance (2 items)
- Logging and monitoring: Keep access and error logs; put basic alerts on critical interfaces so issues are quick to locate.
- Content moderation: Self-hosting means you operate the content. Have moderation rules and a report channel ready in advance.
Self-Hosted vs. A Few Centralized Platforms: Control Comparison
| Dimension | A Few Centralized Platforms | Self-Hosted (Genesis) |
|---|---|---|
| Data location | Stored on the platform's servers | On your own server, fully under your control |
| Modification | Fixed templates; the underlying layer cannot be changed | Underlying code is modifiable, expand as needed |
| Shutdown risk | Platform downtime means no access | As long as your server runs, your world stays up |
| Brand ownership | Bound by platform brand and rules | Independent brand, self-operated |
FAQ
Q: Can we self-host without a dedicated ops person?
A: Yes. Genesis offers optional managed deployment that sets up the environment, domain, and permissions in one pass; day-to-day operation then needs no dedicated ops role.
Q: Can models already on a SaaS platform be migrated?
A: Export your GLB or glTF assets and import them. Make sure the original platform permits export, and verify materials and animations survived.
Q: Can we trial internally before going public?
A: Absolutely. Run a small internal or invite-only round first, collect feedback against this checklist, then open up.
Q: Will mobile feel very different from PC?
A: Functionality is the same, but operation and performance depend on the device. Sample-test on the real devices your users actually own before launch.