Hosting an Ark Server: A Comprehensive Guide for Dev

Welcome Dev, if you are reading this article, chances are you are interested in hosting an Ark server. However, setting up an Ark server can be a daunting task for some, especially for those who are new to hosting. This article will provide you with a step-by-step guide on how to host an Ark server, from choosing a hosting provider to configuring your server settings.

1. Choosing a Hosting Provider

The first step in hosting an Ark server is choosing a hosting provider. There are many hosting providers available, but not all of them are created equal. You want to choose a hosting provider that is reliable, has good customer support, and offers affordable pricing.

Some hosting providers that are popular among Ark server hosts include:

Hosting Provider	Price Range	Features
Survival Servers	$14.99 – $199.99 per month	DDoS protection, free trial, easy-to-use control panel
GTX Gaming	$12.49 – $129.99 per month	Free DDoS protection, 24/7 customer support, easy-to-use control panel
Nitrado	€7.99 – €89.99 per month	One-click mod installs, easy-to-use web interface, free trial

Once you have chosen your hosting provider, you will need to choose the server location and the number of slots you want for your server. The server location should be chosen based on where the majority of your players are located to ensure a low ping. The number of slots should be chosen based on the maximum number of players you want to allow on your server at once.

2. Setting up Your Server

Once you have chosen your hosting provider and server settings, you will need to set up your server. This can vary depending on your hosting provider, but most hosting providers will have an easy-to-use control panel that will allow you to set up your server with ease.

Some of the settings you will need to configure include:

Server Name and Password

You will need to choose a name for your server and set a password to ensure only those who have the password can join.

Server Settings

You can configure various settings for your server, such as the difficulty level, resource respawn rate, and taming speed. These settings can be configured based on your preferences and the preferences of your players.

Mods

If you want to add mods to your server, you will need to install them through your hosting provider’s control panel. Most hosting providers have a one-click mod installation feature that makes this process easy.

3. Managing Your Server

Once your server is up and running, you will need to manage it to ensure it runs smoothly. This includes monitoring the server for performance issues, updating the server when new versions are released, and managing the community.

Some tips for managing your server include:

Stay Up-to-Date

Keep your server up-to-date with the latest patches and updates to ensure it runs smoothly and is free from bugs.

Monitor Performance

Keep an eye on the server’s performance to ensure it is running smoothly and is not experiencing any lag or other performance issues.

Build a Community

Encourage players to join your server and build a community. This can be done through social media, forums, or other community-building platforms.

4. Common Questions and Answers

Q: How much does it cost to host an Ark server?

A: The cost of hosting an Ark server can vary depending on the hosting provider and the number of slots you choose. On average, hosting a server with 30 slots can cost around $15 – $25 per month.

Q: Do I need a powerful computer to host an Ark server?

A: No, you do not need a powerful computer to host an Ark server. However, you will need a stable internet connection and a hosting provider that offers reliable server hardware.

Q: How many players can join my server?

A: The number of players that can join your server depends on the number of slots you choose when setting up your server.

Q: Can I add mods to my server?

A: Yes, you can add mods to your server. Most hosting providers offer an easy-to-use mod installation feature that allows you to install mods with just a few clicks.

Q: How do I update my server to the latest version of Ark?

A: To update your server to the latest version of Ark, you will need to do so through your hosting provider’s control panel. Most hosting providers have an update button that will automatically update your server to the latest version.

Conclusion

Hosting an Ark server can be a fun and rewarding experience, but it can also be challenging for those who are new to hosting. By following the steps outlined in this article, you should be able to set up and manage your server with ease. Remember to choose a reliable hosting provider, configure your server settings, and manage your server to ensure it runs smoothly.