Ark Server Hosting Free: A Comprehensive Guide for Devs

Are you looking for a way to host your Ark game server for free? As a dev, you know that finding affordable hosting solutions can be a challenge. This article will guide you through the process of hosting your Ark server for free, saving you both time and money.

What is Ark?

Ark: Survival Evolved is a popular multiplayer survival game that has gained a large following since its release in 2017. The game involves players surviving on a dangerous island filled with prehistoric creatures. Ark has both single-player and multiplayer modes, and many players choose to host their own servers to play with friends or create their own gaming communities.

What is Server Hosting?

Server hosting is the act of using a remote server to host your game. This is done by renting a server from a hosting provider or using your own computer as a server. When hosting your own server, you are responsible for managing it, which can be a challenge if you are not familiar with server administration.

How to Host Your Ark Server for Free

Hosting on Your Own Computer

If you want to host your Ark server for free, you can use your own computer as a server. However, this is not recommended for several reasons:

Reason
Explanation
Performance
Your computer may not have enough resources to run the game and host the server, leading to poor performance.
Security
Hosting a server on your own computer can be a security risk, as you need to open ports in your firewall to allow incoming connections.
Reliability
Your internet connection may not be reliable enough to host a server, leading to frequent disconnects.

If you still want to host your server on your own computer, you can follow these steps:

Step 1: Download and Install SteamCMD

SteamCMD is a command-line version of the Steam client that can be used to install and update games, including Ark. You can download it from the official Valve website and install it on your computer.

Step 2: Download and Install Ark Server

Once you have SteamCMD installed, you can use it to download and install the Ark server files. You will need to use a specific command to download the server files, and then another command to install them.

Step 3: Configure Your Server Settings

After the server files are installed, you can configure your server settings by editing the GameUserSettings.ini file. This file is located in the server’s configuration folder.

Step 4: Start Your Server

Finally, you can start your server by running the ArkServer.bat file. This will launch the server console and allow players to connect to your server.

Hosting with a Free Provider

If you don’t want to host your server on your own computer, you can use a free hosting provider. There are several providers that offer free Ark server hosting, but keep in mind that these servers may have limitations or may not be as reliable as paid hosting options.

Step 1: Find a Free Hosting Provider

There are several free hosting providers that offer Ark server hosting. Some of the most popular providers include:

  • Survival Servers
  • Host Havoc
  • GameServers
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Step 2: Create an Account

Once you have found a free hosting provider, you will need to create an account. This usually involves providing your email address and creating a username and password.

Step 3: Set Up Your Server

After you have created your account, you will need to set up your server. This usually involves selecting the game you want to host, choosing a server location, and configuring your server settings.

Step 4: Start Your Server

Finally, you can start your server by launching it from the provider’s control panel. You can then invite players to join your server by sharing the server IP address and password.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Really Host My Ark Server for Free?

Yes, you can host your Ark server for free using your own computer or a free hosting provider. However, keep in mind that free hosting options may have limitations or may not be as reliable as paid options.

What Are the Best Free Hosting Providers for Ark?

Some of the most popular free hosting providers for Ark include Survival Servers, Host Havoc, and GameServers. However, keep in mind that these providers may have limitations or may not be as reliable as paid options.

What Are the Benefits of Paid Hosting?

Paid hosting options offer several benefits over free hosting, including better performance, reliability, and security. Paid hosting providers also usually offer better customer support and more customization options.

How Much Does Paid Hosting Cost?

The cost of paid hosting varies depending on the provider and the server specifications. Some providers offer plans starting at around $10 per month, while others charge hundreds of dollars per month for high-end servers.

What Server Specifications Do I Need?

The server specifications you need depend on the number of players you want to support and the performance you want to achieve. Generally, a server with at least 8 GB of RAM and a dedicated CPU is recommended for hosting an Ark server.

Conclusion

Hosting your Ark server for free can be a great way to save money and create your own gaming community. Whether you choose to host your server on your own computer or use a free hosting provider, make sure to choose a solution that meets your needs and offers the performance and reliability you need to enjoy the game.

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