How to Host a Local Server on ARK:

Hello Dev, are you interested in hosting your own local server for ARK? If so, you’re in the right place! Hosting your own local server can provide you with a lot of benefits, such as being able to play with your friends in your own customized environment or testing new mods and settings without any lag.

Step 1: Downloading the ARK Dedicated Server Software

The first step in hosting a local server on ARK is to download the dedicated server software, which can be found on the official ARK website. Make sure you choose the correct version, as there are different servers available for Windows and Linux operating systems.

Once you’ve downloaded the software, extract it to a location on your computer where you want to install the server. The extracted folder will contain all the necessary files to run the server.

System Requirements

Minimum Requirements	Recommended Requirements
CPU: 2 GHz Dual-Core 64-bit	CPU: 3 GHz Quad-Core 64-bit
RAM: 4 GB	RAM: 8 GB
Storage: 100 GB	Storage: 250 GB

Note: The requirements may vary depending on the number of players and mods you plan to use.

Step 2: Configuring the Server

To configure your server, you’ll need to modify the GameUserSettings.ini and Game.ini files located in the server’s folder. These files contain all the settings for your server, such as the map, difficulty level, and player count.

It’s important to make sure that you configure these files correctly, as any mistakes can cause issues with the server. To help you configure your server, we’ve included a list of the most important settings to consider.

GameUserSettings.ini

The GameUserSettings.ini file contains settings related to the gameplay experience, such as the difficulty level and the number of players allowed on the server.

• MaxPlayers: The maximum number of players allowed on the server.
• DifficultyOffset: Determines the difficulty level of the game, with higher values indicating a harder game.
• ServerPassword: Allows you to set a password for your server.
• AllowThirdPersonPlayer: Determines whether players can use third-person view.
• DisableStructureDecayPVE: Prevents structures from decaying on PvE servers.

Game.ini

The Game.ini file contains settings related to the game mechanics, such as resource gathering rates and player stats.

• HarvestAmountMultiplier: Increases or decreases the amount of resources gained from harvesting.
• TamingSpeedMultiplier: Increases or decreases the speed at which animals can be tamed.
• MaxStructuresInRange: Determines the number of structures allowed in a single area.
• AllowFlyerCarryPVE: Determines whether flyers can carry other players on PvE servers.
• DinoCountMultiplier: Increases or decreases the number of wild animals on the map.

Step 3: Running the Server

Once you’ve configured your server to your liking, it’s time to start it up! To do this, simply run the .bat file located in the server’s folder. This will launch the server and allow players to connect.

It’s important to keep in mind that running a local server can be resource-intensive, so make sure your computer is capable of handling it. Additionally, make sure to keep an eye on the server’s performance to ensure that it’s running smoothly.

FAQ

How many players can I host on a local server?

The number of players you can host on a local server depends on your computer’s specifications. Generally, it’s recommended to limit the number of players to 10-20 to ensure a smooth gameplay experience.

Can I use mods on my local server?

Yes, you can use mods on your local server. Simply download them from the Steam Workshop and add them to the server’s Mods folder. Make sure to include the mod’s ID number in the ActiveMods list in the GameUserSettings.ini file.

How do I connect to my own local server?

To connect to your own local server, simply start up ARK and select ‘Join ARK’ from the main menu. Then, select ‘Unofficial Servers’ and search for your server’s name. Once you’ve found it, click ‘Join’ to connect.

Why is my server not showing up in the server browser?

If your server is not showing up in the server browser, it may be due to a firewall issue. Make sure to open the necessary ports on your firewall to allow connections to your server. Additionally, you can try adding your server’s IP address to your Steam favorites list to connect directly.

How do I update my server to the latest version?

To update your server to the latest version, simply download the updated server software from the official ARK website and replace the old files with the new ones. Make sure to back up your server files before doing this to prevent any data loss.

Conclusion

Congratulations, Dev! You now know how to host your own local server on ARK. By following the steps outlined in this article, you can create a customized gameplay experience that’s tailored to your preferences. Remember to keep an eye on your server’s performance and regularly update it to ensure a smooth gameplay experience for you and your friends. Happy gaming!