How do I make a MUD with all my own areas in it?

Frequently asked question — SMAUG server

Question

So how do I make a MUD with all my own areas in it?

Answer

I would work out from the vnums list given in the FAQ The server won't start up which areas can be safely deleted (most of them) and remove references to them from the area.lst file.

To have only your own areas I would make new area files using the area editor, make sure you choose vnum ranges that are not already in use (you can use quite large numbers) and then either change room 100 (if you are using authorisation), or room 10300 (if you are not using authorisation) in the existing area files to:

Have a suitable description for your MUD
Exit to a room in your new area.

Thus, players will start in an existing area, but as soon as they go NORTH (or whatever) will end up in your own new area, and then you can take it from there.