host free ark server

Host Free Ark Server: The Ultimate Guide for Devs

Greetings, Devs! If you’re looking to host an Ark server without having to pay hefty fees, you’ve come to the right place. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll show you how to host a free Ark server using various methods.

Why Host a Free Ark Server?

Before we dive into the details, let’s first discuss why you should host a free Ark server. Firstly, hosting a server means you have complete control over the game environment, including mods, settings, and players. You can create your own rules and customize the game to your liking.

Secondly, Ark servers are expensive, and not everyone can afford to pay for them. By hosting a free server, you can bring together a community of players who share your interests without having to spend a dime.

Lastly, hosting a server allows you to play with friends without the worry of lag, server crashes, or connectivity issues. You can have a seamless gaming experience, and it’s free!

How to Host a Free Ark Server?

Method 1: Host on Your PC

The first and most popular method of hosting a free Ark server is by hosting it on your PC. This method is perfect for those who have a powerful gaming rig with a stable internet connection.

To host a free Ark server on your PC, you’ll need to follow these steps:

Step 1: Download and Install SteamCMD

You’ll need to download SteamCMD, which is a command-line tool used for installing and updating game servers. You can download it here: https://developer.valvesoftware.com/wiki/SteamCMD

Once downloaded, create a folder on your PC where you’ll be installing the server files.

Step 2: Download and Install Ark Server Files

Now that you have SteamCMD, you’ll need to use it to download the Ark server files. Open the SteamCMD application and type in the following command:

app_update 376030 validate

This will download the Ark server files and install them in the folder you created in Step 1.

Step 3: Configure Your Server

After the installation, you’ll need to configure your server. Open the server files folder and look for the “GameUserSettings.ini” file. This file contains all the settings for your server, including the server name, password, and player limit.

Edit this file to your liking and save the changes.

Step 4: Launch the Server

After you’ve configured your server, you’re ready to launch it. Open the “ShooterGameServer.exe” file to start the server. You’ll need to keep this window open while the server is running.

Step 5: Connect to Your Server

Finally, you’ll need to connect to your server to start playing. Open Ark and select “Join Ark” from the main menu. In the server filter, type in your server name and click “Join.”

Method 2: Using Repl.it

If you don’t have a powerful gaming rig or don’t want to host the server on your PC, you can use Repl.it to host your free Ark server. Repl.it is a cloud-based development platform that allows you to create, run, and share code online.

To host a free Ark server using Repl.it, follow these steps:

Step 1: Create a Repl.it Account

If you don’t have a Repl.it account, create one here: https://repl.it/signup

After you’ve created an account, log in to your dashboard.

Step 2: Create a New Repl

Click on “New Repl” and select “Bash” as the language. This will create a new project.

Step 3: Install Dependencies

You’ll need to install the dependencies required to run the Ark server. Type in the following commands in the terminal:

apt-get update

apt-get install curl

apt-get install lib32gcc1

apt-get install lib32stdc++6

Step 4: Download and Install SteamCMD

After installing the dependencies, download and install SteamCMD by typing in the following command:

curl -sqL “https://steamcdn-a.akamaihd.net/client/installer/steamcmd_linux.tar.gz” | tar zxvf –

Step 5: Download and Install Ark Server Files

Now that you have SteamCMD installed, use it to download and install the Ark server files by typing in the following command:

./steamcmd.sh +login anonymous +force_install_dir ~/arkserver +app_update 376030 +quit

Step 6: Configure Your Server

After the installation, navigate to the “arkserver/ShooterGame/Saved/Config/LinuxServer/GameUserSettings.ini” file and edit it to your liking.

Step 7: Launch the Server

To launch the server, type in the following command in the terminal:

~/arkserver/ShooterGame/Binaries/Linux/ShooterGameServer TheIsland?listen?SessionName=YourServerName?ServerPassword=YourServerPassword?MaxPlayers=YourMaxPlayerCount

Step 8: Connect to Your Server

Finally, connect to your server by opening Ark and selecting “Join Ark” from the main menu. In the server filter, type in your server name and click “Join.”

FAQs

Q1. Can I host an Ark server for free forever?

Yes, you can host an Ark server for free forever using the methods mentioned in this guide.

Q2. Can I host an Ark server without port forwarding?

Yes, you can use a VPN to host an Ark server without port forwarding.

Q3. Can I use mods on my free Ark server?

Yes, you can use mods on your free Ark server.

Q4. Can I play with my friends on my free Ark server?

Yes, you can play with your friends on your free Ark server.

Conclusion

Hosting a free Ark server is a great way to bring together like-minded players without having to spend a fortune. Whether you choose to host the server on your PC or using Repl.it, the methods mentioned in this guide are easy to follow and will help you get started in no time. Happy gaming!

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