Greetings Dev! If you’re reading this article, chances are you’re looking for a way to host a PS4 Ark server on your PC. You’ve come to the right place! In this comprehensive guide, we’ll walk you through the process of setting up your own server step-by-step. Whether you’re a seasoned gamer or a beginner, we’ve got you covered. Let’s get started!
1. What is Ark: Survival Evolved?
Before we dive into the nitty-gritty of hosting a server, let’s take a moment to talk about what Ark: Survival Evolved is all about. Developed by Studio Wildcard, Ark is an open-world survival game that takes place on a mysterious island filled with dinosaurs and other prehistoric creatures. Players must gather resources, build structures, and tame animals to survive in this dangerous environment. The game can be played both solo and in multiplayer mode, making it a popular choice among gamers.
1.1. How to Get Started with Ark: Survival Evolved
If you haven’t played Ark before, you’ll need to purchase the game first. It’s available on several platforms, including PS4, Xbox One, and PC. Once you’ve got the game, you’ll need to create a character and start playing. We recommend playing the single-player mode first to get a feel for the game before delving into multiplayer.
1.2. Why Host a Server?
There are several reasons why you might want to host your own Ark server. For one, it allows you to play with your friends without having to rely on the official servers. You’ll also have more control over the game settings and can customize the experience to your liking. Lastly, hosting your own server can improve performance and reduce lag if you have a strong internet connection and a powerful PC.
2. What You’ll Need
Now that you know why you might want to host a server, let’s talk about what you’ll need to get started. Here’s a list of everything you’ll need:
Item |
Description |
|---|---|
Computer |
A PC with at least 8GB of RAM and a decent graphics card |
Internet Connection |
A strong internet connection with at least 10Mbps upload speed |
Ark: Survival Evolved |
The game itself, which can be purchased on several platforms |
Steam Account |
A Steam account is required to download and install the server software |
Server Software |
The server software can be downloaded for free from the Steam store |
2.1. Choosing the Right PC
If you’re planning on hosting a server, you’ll need a PC that can handle the workload. We recommend a PC with at least 8GB of RAM and a decent graphics card. The processor doesn’t need to be top-of-the-line, but it should be at least a quad-core CPU. Keep in mind that the more players you have, the more resources the server will need to run smoothly.
2.2. Internet Connection
The quality of your internet connection is crucial when it comes to hosting a server. You’ll need at least 10Mbps upload speed to ensure a smooth and stable connection for your players. If you’re not sure what your upload speed is, you can use an online speed test to find out.
2.3. Ark: Survival Evolved
You’ll need to purchase the game itself in order to play and host a server. It’s available on several platforms, including PS4, Xbox One, and PC. Make sure you have the latest version of the game installed on your PC.
2.4. Steam Account
A Steam account is required to download and install the server software. If you don’t already have a Steam account, you can create one for free on the official Steam website.
2.5. Server Software
The server software can be downloaded for free from the Steam store. Once you’ve downloaded and installed it, you’ll be able to configure your server settings and start hosting.
3. Installing and Configuring the Server Software
Now that you have everything you need, it’s time to install and configure the server software. Here’s a step-by-step guide:
3.1. Step 1: Download the Server Software
The first step is to download the server software from the official Steam store. You can find it by searching for “Ark: Survival Evolved Dedicated Server” on the Steam website or in the Steam client. Once you’ve found it, click “Install” to start the download.
3.2. Step 2: Install the Server Software
Once the download is complete, you’ll need to install the server software on your PC. Double-click on the downloaded file to start the installation process. Follow the on-screen instructions to install the software to your desired location.
3.3. Step 3: Configure the Server Settings
Now that the software is installed, it’s time to configure the server settings. Open the “ArkServerLauncher.exe” file in the installation folder to access the server settings. This will launch the server launcher, which will allow you to configure your server settings.
3.4. Step 4: Choose the Map and Server Settings
Once the server launcher is open, you’ll need to choose the map and server settings. The map is the environment in which the game takes place. You can choose from several maps, including The Island, Ragnarok, and Valguero. You’ll also need to set the server settings, such as the difficulty level, tame speed, and more. These settings can be changed at any time.
3.5. Step 5: Start the Server
Once you’ve configured your server settings, it’s time to start the server. Simply click the “Start” button in the server launcher to start hosting your own Ark server. Your server will now show up in the server list, and your friends can join by searching for your server name.
4. Troubleshooting and FAQ
Hosting a server can be tricky, especially if you’re not familiar with the process. Here are some common issues and questions you might encounter:
4.1. My Server Isn’t Showing Up in the List
If your server isn’t showing up in the list, there could be several reasons why. First, make sure your server is running and that you have the latest version of the game installed. You’ll also need to make sure your friends have the same version of the game installed. If none of these solutions work, try disabling your firewall or opening the necessary ports in your router.
4.2. My Friends Can’t Connect to the Server
If your friends are having trouble connecting to your server, there could be several reasons why. First, make sure your server is running and that your friends are using the correct IP address and port number to connect. You’ll also need to make sure your firewall isn’t blocking the connection. If none of these solutions work, try restarting your router or asking your friends to try connecting from a different location.
4.3. How Many Players Can I Host?
The number of players you can host on your server will depend on the specs of your PC and internet connection. Generally, you should be able to host up to 10-20 players without any issues, but this will vary depending on your system.
4.4. Can I Customize the Server Settings?
Yes, you can customize the server settings to your liking. You can change the difficulty level, tame speed, harvest rate, and more. These settings can be changed at any time by accessing the server launcher.
4.5. Can I Use Mods on My Server?
Yes, you can use mods on your server. However, you’ll need to make sure your friends have the same mods installed if they want to join your server. You can download mods from the Steam Workshop or other websites.
Conclusion
Hosting a PS4 Ark server on your PC can be a fun and rewarding experience. With the right equipment and a bit of technical know-how, you can create your own personalized gaming experience and invite your friends to join in. We hope this guide has helped you get started with hosting your own server. Happy gaming!