How to Host Ark Server With Friends

Greetings, Dev! Are you looking to explore the world of Ark with your friends? Hosting an Ark server with your friends is not only exciting, but it also helps you to have more control over the game settings. In this journal article, we will guide you through the process of hosting an Ark server with your friends in a few simple steps.

Step 1: Installing Ark

Before you can begin hosting an Ark server, you need to install the game on your computer. You can purchase and download the game from the Steam store. Once the game is installed, you’re ready to move to the next stage.

System Requirements

Ark is a demanding game, so it’s essential to ensure that your system meets the minimum requirements. Here are the minimum requirements to run the game:

Operating System	CPU	RAM	GPU
Windows 7/8.1/10 64-bit	Intel Core i5-2400/AMD FX-8320 or better	8GB RAM	NVIDIA GTX 670 2GB/AMD Radeon HD 7870 2GB or better

Step 2: Port Forwarding

Next, you need to forward the Ark server port, so your friends can join your server. You can do this by accessing your router settings and forwarding the appropriate port (UDP 27015) to your PC. Here’s how you can forward the port:

Port Forwarding Instructions

1. Find your router’s IP address by typing “ipconfig” in the Command Prompt on Windows or “ifconfig” on a Mac.
2. Open your router settings by typing your router’s IP in your web browser.
3. Find the “Port Forwarding” section and add a new rule.
4. Enter “27015” as the port number and forward it to your computer’s IP address.
5. Save the changes and exit.

Step 3: Configuring the Server

Now that you have installed Ark and set up port forwarding, it’s time to configure your server. Here’s how:

Server Configuration

1. Launch the game and select “Host/Local” from the menu.
2. Enter the desired settings, such as the game mode, map, and difficulty.
3. Once you’ve entered your preferred settings, click “Host Non-Dedicated Server”.
4. Invite your friends to join the server by pressing Tab and typing “showmyadminmanager”.
5. Add your friend’s Steam IDs to the “Allowed Players” list.
6. Click “Save” to finalize the settings.
7. Your server is now ready to play. Invite your friends and enjoy the game!

FAQ

Q: Can I host an Ark server without a dedicated computer?

A: Yes, you can host an Ark server from your own computer. However, you may experience performance issues if you do not have a high-end PC.

Q: How many players can join an Ark server?

A: The number of players depends on the server settings and the server hardware. However, the maximum number of players in the game is 100.

Q: Can I change the server settings after hosting a game?

A: Yes, you can change the server settings at any time by accessing the “Host/Local” menu and editing the settings.

Q: Can I use mods on my Ark server?

A: Yes, you can use mods on your Ark server. But, your friends need to have the same mods installed to join your server.

Q: How do I communicate with my friends during the game?

A: Press the “Tab” key to open the chat box and communicate with your friends.

Q: How do I save my game progress?

A: The game automatically saves your progress. But, it’s advisable to save your game manually by using the “Save Game” option in the menu.

Hosting an Ark server with your friends is an enjoyable experience. By following these simple steps, you can easily host an Ark server and enjoy the game with your friends. Good luck and have fun!