Everything You Need to Know About Hosting a Non-Dedicated Server on Ark Survival

Welcome Dev, if you’re a fan of Ark Survival and want to host your own non-dedicated server for you and your friends, then this article is for you. This comprehensive guide will take you through all the details you need to know about hosting a non-dedicated server on Ark Survival. Let’s dive in!

What is a Non-Dedicated Server?

A non-dedicated server is a type of server that is not dedicated to hosting a single game. Rather, it is used to host games for a smaller group of players. Non-dedicated servers allow players to connect and join games together, but have a restricted range of movement from the host player.

For Ark Survival, non-dedicated servers are perfect for small groups of friends who want to experience the game together without having to share the server with other players.

Advantages of a Non-Dedicated Server

Hosting a non-dedicated server on Ark Survival has several advantages:

  1. You have complete control over the server settings.
  2. You can play with your friends without any external interference.
  3. You can choose who you play with.

Disadvantages of a Non-Dedicated Server

However, there are also some disadvantages to hosting a non-dedicated server:

  1. You need a good and stable internet connection.
  2. The host player’s computer must be able to handle the increased load of running the game and hosting the server simultaneously.
  3. The host player may experience lag due to the increased load on the system.

Choosing the Right Host for Your Non-Dedicated Server

Before you can start hosting your own non-dedicated server on Ark Survival, you need to choose the right host for your needs. Here are a few factors to consider when choosing a host:

Server Location

The location of your server is a crucial factor to consider. You want to choose a location that is geographically close to you and your players to avoid lag and latency issues.

Server Specs

The specs of your server will determine the performance of your game. You want a server with good hardware specs to ensure smooth gameplay for you and your players.

Server Customizability

Customizing server settings is an essential part of hosting a non-dedicated server. You want to choose a host that allows you to customize your server settings to your liking.

Setting Up Your Non-Dedicated Server on Ark Survival

Once you’ve chosen your host, it’s time to set up your non-dedicated server on Ark Survival. Here are the steps to follow:

Step 1: Download and Install SteamCMD

First, you need to download and install SteamCMD on your computer. SteamCMD is a command-line version of the Steam client that allows you to download and manage game files.

Step 2: Download and Install Ark Survival Server Files

Next, you need to download and install the Ark Survival server files through SteamCMD. This will allow you to run the server on your computer.

Step 3: Configure Server Settings

Once the server files are installed, you can configure the server settings to your liking using the server configuration file. This file allows you to customize various settings such as server name, password, game settings, and more.

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Step 4: Start Your Server

Finally, you can start your non-dedicated server by launching the server executable file. This will allow you and your friends to connect to the server and start playing together.

FAQ

Q: How many players can join a non-dedicated Ark Survival server?

A: Non-dedicated servers on Ark Survival have a maximum player limit of 8 players.

Q: What are the minimum system requirements for hosting a non-dedicated Ark Survival server?

A: The minimum system requirements for hosting a non-dedicated Ark Survival server are as follows:

Component
Minimum Requirement
CPU
Intel Core i5-2400 / AMD FX-8320 or better
RAM
8 GB
Storage
60 GB SSD
Internet Speed
10 Mbps upload and download

Q: Can I use mods on a non-dedicated Ark Survival server?

A: Yes, you can use mods on a non-dedicated Ark Survival server. However, all players must have the same mods installed to avoid compatibility issues.

Q: Can I transfer my non-dedicated Ark Survival server to a dedicated server?

A: Yes, you can transfer your non-dedicated server to a dedicated server. However, the process can be complicated and requires technical knowledge.

Conclusion

Hosting a non-dedicated server on Ark Survival is a great way to play the game with your friends without having to share the server with other players. By following the steps outlined in this guide, you can set up your own non-dedicated server and start playing with your friends right away.