Host Ark Server on PC: A Comprehensive Guide for Devs

Dear Dev, if you’re looking for a comprehensive guide on how to host Ark server on your PC, you’ve come to the right place. Here, we’ll go over everything you need to know to get started, from system requirements to step-by-step instructions. So, grab a cup of coffee and let’s dive in.

System Requirements

Before you start hosting an Ark server on your PC, let’s make sure your system meets the minimum requirements. Here’s what you’ll need:

Component	Minimum Requirement
Processor	Intel Core i5-2400/AMD FX-8320 or better
Memory	8 GB RAM
Graphics	NVIDIA GTX 770 2GB/AMD Radeon R9 280 or better
Storage	120 GB of free space

If your PC meets these requirements, you’re good to go. If not, you may experience performance issues while hosting the server.

Downloading and Installing the Server Software

The first step to hosting an Ark server on your PC is to download and install the server software. Follow these steps:

Step 1: Download the Server Software from Steam

Open Steam and navigate to the Library tab. Click on the drop-down menu and select “Tools”. Scroll down until you find “Ark Server Manager” and click on it. Click the “Install” button to download and install the software.

Step 2: Install the Server Software

Once the download is complete, the software will be installed on your PC. Navigate to the installation folder and run the “Ark Server Manager” executable. Follow the instructions to complete the installation.

Step 3: Set Up the Server Configurations

Once the installation is complete, you’ll need to configure the server settings. This includes setting the server name, password, and other settings. You can do this through the “Ark Server Manager” interface.

Step 4: Start the Server

After you configure the server settings, start the server by clicking the “Start” button in the “Ark Server Manager” interface. The server will start running in the background.

Step 5: Connect to the Server

You’re now ready to connect to the server. Launch Ark and click on “Join Ark”. Select “Unofficial PC Server” and search for your server by name. Enter the password if required, and you’re in!

Troubleshooting Common Issues

Hosting an Ark server on your PC can be a little tricky. Here are some common issues you may face and how to fix them:

Issue 1: Can’t Connect to the Server

If you can’t connect to the server, make sure you’ve entered the correct server name and password. If that doesn’t work, try resetting your network settings or rebooting your PC.

Issue 2: Poor Server Performance

If your server is experiencing poor performance, try tweaking the server settings. You can also try upgrading your PC’s hardware or reducing the number of players on the server.

Issue 3: Game Crashes on the Server

If your game crashes while playing on the server, try updating your graphics drivers or reinstalling the game. You can also try lowering the graphics settings or reducing the number of players on the server.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some commonly asked questions about hosting an Ark server on your PC:

Q: Can I host an Ark server on my laptop?

A: Yes, you can host an Ark server on a laptop as long as it meets the minimum system requirements.

Q: How many players can I host on my Ark server?

A: The number of players you can host on your Ark server depends on your PC’s hardware and internet connection. Generally, you can host up to 100 players on a high-end PC with a good internet connection.

Q: Can I install mods on my Ark server?

A: Yes, you can install mods on your Ark server. You can do this through the “Ark Server Manager” interface.

Q: Can I run other programs while hosting an Ark server?

A: Yes, you can run other programs while hosting an Ark server. However, it’s recommended to close other resource-intensive programs to ensure optimal performance.

That’s it, Dev! You now have all the information you need to host an Ark server on your PC. Good luck and have fun!