Welcome, Dev, to our comprehensive guide to Ark server hosting for the PS4, and how to get it for free. If you’re a fan of this popular survival game, you know how important it is to have a reliable server to play on. However, setting up and maintaining a server can be expensive and time-consuming. That’s why we’ve put together this article to help you find the best free Ark server hosting options for PS4 players. Let’s get started.
What is Ark: Survival Evolved?
Before we dive into the specifics of hosting your own Ark server, let’s take a quick look at what this game is all about. Ark: Survival Evolved is a survival game where you must gather resources, build structures, and fight off dangerous creatures to survive.
The game is set on an island filled with dinosaurs and other prehistoric creatures, and it can be played in both singleplayer and multiplayer modes. In multiplayer, you can team up with other players to build communities, trade resources, and defend against other players’ attacks. But to do that, you need a reliable server to play on.
Why Host Your Own Ark Server?
If you’re an avid Ark player, you know that playing on a public server can be a frustrating experience. Random players can join and cause chaos, the server can crash or be taken down at any time, and the lag can be unbearable.
By hosting your own server, you have complete control over how the game is played. You can choose who can join, set the rules, and even customize the game settings to your liking. Plus, you can play with your friends without worrying about strangers interfering.
Free vs. Paid Ark Server Hosting
When it comes to hosting your own Ark server, you have two options: free or paid. Paid hosting services offer more advanced features, faster speeds, and better support, but they can be expensive. Free hosting services, on the other hand, can save you money but may have limitations and restrictions.
In this article, we’ll focus on free Ark server hosting options for PS4 players. While the features and support may not be as robust as with paid services, these options are great for players on a budget or for those who want to test the waters before committing to a paid service.
Top Free Ark Server Hosting Options for PS4 Players
Without further ado, let’s explore the top free Ark server hosting options for PS4 players. These services allow you to host your own server at no cost, and most of them are easy to set up and use.
1. GPORTAL
GPORTAL is one of the most popular free Ark server hosting services for PS4 players. With GPORTAL, you can set up your own server in just a few clicks, and it comes with a range of customizable settings and configurations.
The downside to GPORTAL is that it only offers free hosting for up to 10 players, and after that, you’ll need to upgrade to a paid plan. However, if you’re just looking to play with a small group of friends, GPORTAL is a great option.
2. SurvivalServers
SurvivalServers is another popular free hosting service for Ark servers. It offers a range of customization options, including game settings, mods, and plugins.
One downside to SurvivalServers is that it can be a bit more complicated to set up than other hosting services. However, the company offers excellent support and has a helpful community forum that can help you troubleshoot any issues.
3. Host Havoc
Host Havoc is a paid hosting service, but it also offers a free trial period. During this period, you can host your own Ark server for free and test out the company’s features and support.
While Host Havoc offers excellent hosting services, the free trial period only lasts for 24 hours. Still, it’s a great option for players who want to test out a paid service before committing.
Setting Up Your Own Ark Server
Now that you know your hosting options let’s dive into how to set up your own Ark server. Here’s a step-by-step guide to get you started:
Step 1: Download the Dedicated Server Software
The first step to setting up your own Ark server is to download the dedicated server software. You can download the software directly from the Ark website or through Steam. Make sure to choose the correct version for your platform (in this case, PS4).
Step 2: Set Up the Server Files
Once you’ve downloaded the software, unzip the files and save them to a new folder on your computer. Then, open the folder and run the “ShooterGameServer.exe” file. This will create a new batch file that you can use to start the server.
Step 3: Configure the Server Settings
The next step is to configure the server settings. You can do this by editing the “GameUserSettings.ini” file in the “Server” folder. This file contains all the game settings that you can customize, such as difficulty, taming speed, and resource rates.
Step 4: Port Forward Your Router
To allow other players to connect to your server, you need to port forward your router. This process is specific to your router model, so you’ll need to consult your router’s manual or online guides for instructions on how to do this.
Step 5: Start the Server
Once you’ve completed all the above steps, you can start your server by running the batch file you created in step 2. Your server will now be live, and you can invite other players to join using your public IP address.
Frequently Asked Questions
Question |
Answer |
|---|---|
Can I host an Ark server for free? |
Yes, there are several free hosting services available for PS4 players. See our list above for some of the top options. |
What are the benefits of hosting my own Ark server? |
Hosting your own server gives you complete control over the game settings and rules, as well as the ability to play with your friends without interference. |
How do I set up my own Ark server? |
See our step-by-step guide above for instructions on how to set up your own Ark server. |
Do I need to port forward my router to host a server? |
Yes, you’ll need to port forward your router to allow other players to connect to your server. |
Can I customize the game settings on my server? |
Yes, you can customize a wide range of game settings using the “GameUserSettings.ini” file. |
Conclusion
Hosting your own Ark server on the PS4 can be a great way to play with your friends and have complete control over the game settings. While there are several paid hosting options available, there are also several free options that are easy to set up and use.
Remember to choose a hosting service that fits your needs and budget, and be sure to follow our step-by-step guide to set up your server. With these tips and tricks, you’ll be ready to survive and thrive in the world of Ark: Survival Evolved.