Introduction
Welcome Dev, if you’re reading this article then you’re most likely interested in hosting an Ark PS4 server. As you may know, Ark is a popular survival game that requires players to build, tame and survive in a prehistoric world filled with dangerous creatures. Hosting your own PS4 server is a great way to take full control of your gaming experience and play with friends in a more personalized environment.
However, setting up and managing a game server is not an easy task, especially for beginners. That’s why we’ve created this comprehensive guide to help you set up and run your own Ark PS4 server with ease. We’ve included everything you need to know, from selecting the right hosting provider to configuring your server settings and managing your game world. So, let’s get started!
Section 1: Choosing the Right Hosting Provider
Choosing the right hosting provider is one of the most important decisions you’ll make when setting up your Ark PS4 server. Here are some factors to consider when making your choice:
1. Server Location
The location of your server can greatly impact the performance of your game. Make sure to choose a host that has servers located close to your geographical location or your primary players’ location. This will minimize lag and ensure a smoother gaming experience.
2. Hosting Plans and Pricing
Hosting plans and pricing can vary greatly between different providers. Look for a host that offers flexible plans with different options for server size, RAM, and storage. Be sure to compare prices and features to find the best value for your budget.
3. Server Management Tools
A good hosting provider should offer intuitive server management tools that make it easy to configure your server settings, create backups, and monitor server performance. Look for hosts that offer these tools as part of their hosting packages.
4. Customer Support
Finally, make sure to choose a host that offers reliable customer support. You’ll want to be able to reach out for help if you encounter any issues with your server setup or management. Look for hosts that offer support via multiple channels, such as email, chat, or phone.
5. Recommended Hosting Providers
Hosting Provider |
Server Location |
Hosting Plans and Pricing |
Server Management Tools |
Customer Support |
|---|---|---|---|---|
Host Havoc |
North America, Europe, Asia, and Australia |
Plans start at $13.99/month |
Full server control panel with one-click installs and backups |
24/7 support via live chat and tickets |
GTX Gaming |
North America, Europe, and Australia |
Plans start at $9.23/month |
Custom control panel with mods and plugin support |
24/7 support via live chat and tickets |
Survival Servers |
North America, Europe, and Australia |
Plans start at $14.99/month |
Easy to use control panel with mod manager and automatic updates |
24/7 support via live chat and tickets |
Section 2: Setting Up Your Ark PS4 Server
Now that you’ve chosen your hosting provider, it’s time to set up your Ark PS4 server. Here’s a step-by-step guide:
1. Accessing Your Server Control Panel
Once you’ve signed up for a hosting plan and logged in to your hosting account, you should be able to access your server control panel. This is where you’ll configure your server settings and manage your game world.
2. Installing the Ark Server Software
Most hosting providers will offer an easy one-click installation of the Ark server software. If not, you may need to manually download and install the software on your server. Follow the instructions provided by your hosting provider or refer to the official Ark wiki for guidance.
3. Configuring Your Server Settings
Now it’s time to configure your server settings to match your preferences. This includes things like server name, password, difficulty level, player limit, and more. Refer to the official Ark wiki for a full list of server settings and their descriptions.
4. Installing Mods and Plugins
If you want to customize your game world even further, you can install mods and plugins that add new features, creatures, or items. Most hosting providers will offer an easy way to install mods and plugins from popular sources like the Steam Workshop or Ark Server Manager.
5. Starting Your Server
Once you’ve configured your server settings and installed any desired mods or plugins, you’re ready to start your Ark PS4 server! Players will be able to find your server by searching for its name or IP address within the game.
Section 3: Managing Your Ark PS4 Server
Now that your server is up and running, you’ll need to manage it and keep it running smoothly. Here are some tips:
1. Regularly Check Server Performance
Make sure to regularly check your server’s performance by monitoring its CPU usage, RAM consumption, and bandwidth usage. If you notice any performance issues or lag spikes, you may need to adjust your server settings or upgrade your hosting plan.
2. Create Regular Backups
It’s important to create regular backups of your game world to prevent data loss in case of server crashes or other issues. Most hosting providers will offer automatic backup options, but you can also create manual backups through your server control panel.
3. Communicate with Your Players
You’ll want to communicate regularly with your players to keep them updated on server news, changes, or events. You can use in-game chat or external messaging apps like Discord to keep in touch with your community.
FAQs
Q1. How much does it cost to host an Ark PS4 server?
Hosting costs can vary greatly depending on the hosting provider and your server requirements. Hosting plans can range from $10 to $50 per month, with additional costs for larger servers, more RAM, or storage.
Q2. How many players can join an Ark PS4 server?
The number of players that can join a server depends on the server’s player limit, which can be configured by the server host. Most PS4 servers can accommodate between 10 and 100 players at a time.
Q3. Can PS4 players join PC servers?
No, PS4 players cannot join PC servers and vice versa. Ark servers are platform-specific and can only be accessed by players on the same platform as the server.
Q4. Can I host an Ark server on my own PC?
Yes, you can host an Ark PS4 server on your own PC, but it requires a powerful computer and a fast internet connection. Additionally, hosting a server on your own PC can put a strain on your hardware and impact your gaming performance.
Q5. What are the best mods and plugins to install on an Ark PS4 server?
The best mods and plugins to install depend on your personal preferences and playstyle. Some popular options include the Structures Plus mod, which adds new building options, and the Classic Flyers mod, which allows players to fly on previously non-flyable creatures.
Conclusion
Hosting your own Ark PS4 server can be a fun and rewarding experience, but it requires careful planning, setup, and management. By choosing the right hosting provider, configuring your server settings, and managing your game world properly, you can create a vibrant community of players and enjoy the game in a more personalized environment. We hope this guide has been helpful and wish you the best of luck on your Ark PS4 server hosting journey!