Introduction
Are you a fan of ARK: Survival Evolved, but tired of the limitations of playing on public servers? Perhaps you’re considering hosting your own ARK dedicated server, but don’t know where to start. Look no further than this step-by-step guide for installing an ARK dedicated server on Debian.
Dedicated servers allow you to have complete control over your gaming experience, from the server settings to the mods you install. However, setting up a dedicated server may seem daunting at first. With this guide, you will have everything you need to create and run your own ARK dedicated server on Debian.
Before we dive in, let’s take a moment to define what an ARK dedicated server is. Essentially, it is a server that is solely dedicated to running ARK: Survival Evolved. This means that players can join your server at any time without having to worry about competing for resources with other games or applications. By following the steps outlined in this guide, you will have your very own ARK dedicated server up and running in no time.
So, whether you’re a newbie or an experienced gamer looking to take the next step in your ARK adventure, let’s get started!
Installing ARK Dedicated Server on Debian: Step-by-Step Guide
Step 1: Choose a Hosting Provider
Before you can install your ARK dedicated server, you’ll need to choose a hosting provider. There are many hosting providers to choose from, each with its own set of pros and cons. Some popular options include:
Hosting Provider |
Pros |
Cons |
|---|---|---|
Host Havoc |
Affordable pricing, user-friendly control panel |
Limited customization options |
Survival Servers |
Excellent customer support, wide range of server locations |
Higher pricing compared to other providers |
Nitrado |
Feature-packed control panel, ability to switch between games |
Higher pricing for more powerful servers |
Once you’ve chosen your hosting provider, you can begin the process of installing your server.
Step 2: Setting Up a Debian Server
In order to install your ARK dedicated server, you’ll need to have a Debian server set up. If you’re unfamiliar with Debian, it’s a popular Linux-based operating system that is known for its stability and security.
Depending on your hosting provider, you may be able to choose Debian as your operating system during the server set-up process. If not, you can install Debian separately by following the instructions on the Debian website.
Step 3: Downloading and Installing ARK Dedicated Server
With your Debian server set up, you can now download and install the ARK dedicated server software. You can download the software directly from the Steam website or from the ARK wiki.
Once you’ve downloaded the software, you’ll need to extract it and place it in the appropriate folder on your Debian server. This folder should be named ARKServer, and it should be located in the root directory of your server.
Step 4: Setting Up Your ARK Dedicated Server
Now that you have the ARK dedicated server software installed on your Debian server, you’ll need to configure it to your liking. This includes setting up server settings, mods, and plugins.
To access your server settings, open the GameUserSettings.ini file located in the ARKServer/ShooterGame/Saved/Config/LinuxServer folder. From there, you can adjust a wide range of settings, including player limits, resource rates, and player experience rates.
If you want to add mods or plugins to your server, you’ll need to place them in the appropriate folder within the ARKServer directory.
Step 5: Launch Your ARK Dedicated Server
Once you’ve configured your ARK dedicated server to your liking, you’re ready to launch it. Simply navigate to the ARKServer/ShooterGame/Binaries/Linux folder on your server and run the following command in the terminal:
./ShooterGameServer
This will start the ARK dedicated server, and players will be able to connect to your server using your server’s IP address.
Advantages and Disadvantages of Running an ARK Dedicated Server
Advantages
There are many advantages to running your own ARK dedicated server, including:
Complete Control
Running your own dedicated server gives you complete control over your gaming experience. You can customize settings, add mods, and control who has access to your server.
No Resource Competition
When you run your own dedicated server, you don’t have to worry about competing for resources with other games or applications. This means that you’ll have more resources available for your players, resulting in a better gaming experience.
Improved Performance
Dedicated servers are designed for optimal gaming performance, resulting in faster loading times and smoother gameplay.
Disadvantages
While there are many advantages to running an ARK dedicated server, there are also some disadvantages, including:
Higher Cost
Running your own dedicated server can be expensive, especially if you choose a more powerful server. You’ll also be responsible for paying for maintenance and updates.
Technical Knowledge Required
Setting up and maintaining a dedicated server requires some technical know-how. If you’re not familiar with server administration, you may run into issues that you’re not able to fix.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many players can join an ARK dedicated server?
The number of players that can join your ARK dedicated server will depend on the server configuration and resources available. In most cases, dedicated servers can support up to 100 players.
Can I run an ARK dedicated server on a virtual private server (VPS)?
Yes, it is possible to run an ARK dedicated server on a VPS. However, you’ll need to choose a VPS provider that allows for gaming servers and has sufficient resources for your server.
What are some recommended mods for an ARK dedicated server?
Some popular ARK mods include:
- Structures Plus (S+)
- Automated ARK
- Dino Tracker
- Classic Flyers
- Super Spyglass
How do I update my ARK dedicated server?
To update your ARK dedicated server, you’ll need to download the latest server software and replace the existing files on your server with the new ones. You’ll also need to update your server settings and mods if necessary.
Can I transfer my ARK character to a dedicated server?
Yes, you can transfer your ARK character to a dedicated server as long as the server is running the same game mode as the server where your character was created.
What is the minimum system requirements for a Debian server running an ARK dedicated server?
The minimum system requirements for a Debian server running an ARK dedicated server are:
- 2 GHz dual core processor
- 8 GB RAM
- 40 GB available storage
Can I run multiple game servers on the same dedicated server?
Yes, it is possible to run multiple game servers on the same dedicated server, but it will require more resources and configuration.
What port does ARK dedicated server use?
ARK dedicated server uses port 7777 by default.
Can I run an ARK dedicated server without Steam?
No, you must have Steam installed in order to run an ARK dedicated server.
Can I change the server settings after the server has been launched?
Yes, you can change the server settings by modifying the GameUserSettings.ini file and restarting the server.
How do I backup my ARK dedicated server?
To backup your ARK dedicated server, you’ll need to copy the entire ARKServer directory to a different location.
Can I restore my ARK dedicated server from a backup?
Yes, you can restore your ARK dedicated server from a backup by replacing the existing ARKServer directory with the backup files.
How do I troubleshoot common issues with my ARK dedicated server?
Common issues with ARK dedicated servers may include server crashes, connectivity issues, and plugin errors. To troubleshoot these issues, you can consult online resources such as the ARK wiki, community forums, or contact support from your hosting provider.
Can I run an ARK dedicated server on Windows?
Yes, it is possible to run an ARK dedicated server on Windows. However, the process for setting up and configuring the server may be slightly different than on Debian.
Conclusion
Congratulations on completing this comprehensive guide for installing an ARK dedicated server on Debian! By following these step-by-step instructions, you should now have a fully functioning ARK dedicated server that you can customize to your liking.
While there may be some challenges along the way, running your own dedicated server can greatly enhance your ARK experience. Whether you’re looking to create your own community or simply enjoy a more personalized gaming experience, the possibilities are endless with an ARK dedicated server. So what are you waiting for? Start hosting your own ARK dedicated server today!
Disclaimer
Please note that running an ARK dedicated server comes with some inherent risks, including potential security vulnerabilities and technical issues. It is important to take all necessary precautions to ensure the safety and stability of your server, including keeping software and plugins up-to-date and following best practices for server administration.