Welcome, Dev! A Complete Guide to Ark Dedicated Server Setup

Welcome to our guide on Ark dedicated server setup, where we’ll take you through the process of setting up your server and getting the most out of your gaming experience. In this article, you’ll find all the information you need to set up your dedicated server, including step-by-step instructions, useful tips, and frequently asked questions.

1. Choosing the Right Hardware for Your Ark Server

One of the most important factors in setting up a dedicated server for Ark is choosing the right hardware. There are several factors you need to consider, such as the type of processor, amount of RAM, storage space, and network bandwidth. Let’s take a look at each of these factors in more detail.

1.1 Processor and RAM

The processor and RAM are two of the most critical hardware components of your server. We recommend at least a quad-core processor and 8GB of RAM to ensure your server can handle multiple players and run the game smoothly.

1.2 Storage Space

The amount of storage space you need will depend on the number of players, maps, and mods you plan to use. We recommend at least 50GB of storage space to accommodate the base game and several mods.

1.3 Network Bandwidth

The network bandwidth is another critical factor in setting up your server. It’s essential to have a fast and stable internet connection to ensure your server can handle multiple players and provide a smooth gaming experience. We recommend a minimum of 10 Mbps upload and download speeds.

1.4 Operating System

When setting up your server, you’ll need to choose an operating system. Windows and Linux are both viable options, but we recommend using Windows for easier setup and management.

1.5 Choosing a Host

You have two options when it comes to hosting your dedicated server: hosting it on your own hardware or renting a server from a hosting provider. Hosting your server on your own hardware can be cost-efficient, but it requires technical expertise and ongoing maintenance. On the other hand, renting a server from a hosting provider is more convenient, but it can be more expensive.

2. Installing and Configuring Ark Server

Now that you’ve chosen the right hardware for your server, it’s time to install and configure the Ark server. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to do it:

2.1 Downloading and Installing the Server Software

The first step is to download the Ark server software from the Steam store. Once you’ve downloaded the software, install it on your server by following the on-screen instructions.

2.2 Configuring the Server

Once the installation is complete, it’s time to configure the server. You can do this by editing the server configuration files. Here are some essential settings you need to configure:

Setting	Description
ServerName	The name of your server that will appear in the server list.
MaxPlayers	The maximum number of players allowed on your server.
ServerPassword	The password required to join your server.
DifficultyOffset	The difficulty level of the game.
ServerAdminPassword	The password required to access the server admin panel.

2.3 Installing and Configuring Mods

Ark supports mods, which can enhance your gaming experience by adding new items, maps, and gameplay features. To install and configure mods, follow these steps:

1. Go to the Steam Workshop and find the mods you want to install.
2. Subscribe to the mods you want to install.
3. Copy the mod IDs and paste them into the server configuration file.

3. Starting and Managing Your Ark Server

Now that you’ve installed and configured your server, it’s time to start it up and manage it. Here are some useful tips for managing your Ark server:

3.1 Starting the Server

To start the server, run the server software and wait for it to load. Once the server is loaded, it will appear in the server list, and players can join by entering the server name and password.

3.2 Managing the Server

You can manage your server by accessing the server admin panel. To access the admin panel, enter the admin password in the game console or in the server configuration file. From the admin panel, you can change settings, ban players, and manage mods.

4. Frequently Asked Questions

4.1 How do I update my Ark server?

To update your Ark server, simply download the latest server software from the Steam store and install it on your server. Make sure to back up your configuration files before updating.

4.2 How do I back up my Ark server?

To back up your Ark server, copy the server configuration files and save them to a different location. You can also use third-party backup software to automate the process.

4.3 How do I add admins to my Ark server?

To add admins to your Ark server, add their Steam64 ID to the server configuration file under the Admins section.

4.4 How do I ban a player from my Ark server?

To ban a player from your Ark server, access the server admin panel and enter their Steam64 ID in the ban list.

4.5 How do I change the map on my Ark server?

To change the map on your Ark server, edit the server configuration file and change the MapName setting to the name of the desired map. You also need to download and install the map files.

Congratulations, Dev! You’ve now learned how to set up your own dedicated server for Ark and enjoy a smoother gaming experience. We hope this guide has been helpful, and if you have any more questions, feel free to leave them in the comments below.