Host your own server for Ark: A guide for Devs

Welcome, Dev, to this comprehensive guide on how to host your own server for Ark: Survival Evolved. If you’re tired of unreliable servers, slow loading times, or simply want more control over your gameplay, hosting your own server is a great option. In this guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know about setting up your own Ark server, from hardware requirements to frequently asked questions. Let’s get started!

Hardware requirements

The first step in hosting your own Ark server is to ensure that your hardware meets the requirements. Here are the minimum requirements:

Component	Minimum requirement
CPU	Intel Core i5-2400/AMD FX-8320 or better
RAM	8GB DDR4 or better
Storage	At least 100GB of free space on your hard drive
Internet connection	A stable, high-speed internet connection

It’s important to note that these are only the minimum requirements. If you have a more powerful setup, you’ll be able to host a server with more players and reduce potential lag.

Choosing your server software

Once you’ve confirmed that your hardware meets the requirements, it’s time to choose your server software. There are several options available, including:

Official server software

The official server software is provided by Studio Wildcard, the developers of Ark: Survival Evolved. This is a reliable option, but it does come with some limitations. For example, you won’t be able to modify the server settings beyond a certain point, and you’ll need to pay a fee to host on official servers.

Third-party server software

There are several third-party server software options available, including:

• Nitrado
• Survival Servers
• GTX Gaming

These options provide more control over your server settings and can be more cost-effective than the official server software. However, they do require some technical knowledge to set up and maintain.

Setting up your server

Step 1: Install the server software

The first step in setting up your Ark server is to install the server software. The process will vary depending on which software you choose, but you’ll typically need to download and install the software onto your server.

Step 2: Configure the server settings

After you’ve installed the software, you’ll need to configure the server settings. This includes things like the server name, player count, difficulty settings, and more. Refer to the software’s documentation for instructions on how to configure these settings.

Step 3: Port forwarding

In order for players to connect to your server, you’ll need to configure port forwarding on your router. This will allow incoming connections to access your server. Refer to your router’s documentation for instructions on how to set up port forwarding.

Step 4: Invite players

With your server set up and configured, you’re ready to invite players to join. You can do this by sharing your server’s IP address and password (if applicable) with your friends or by advertising your server online.

Frequently asked questions

What is the maximum number of players I can host on my server?

This will depend on your hardware and server software. With a powerful setup, you can host up to 100 players or more. However, we recommend starting with a smaller player count and gradually increasing it as your hardware can handle.

Will hosting my own server affect my internet speed?

Yes, hosting a server will use some amount of bandwidth from your internet connection. While it shouldn’t affect your browsing speed too much, you may experience some slowdown if several players are connected to your server at once.

Do I need a dedicated server to host an Ark server?

No, you can host an Ark server on your personal computer. However, if you plan to host a large number of players or run other applications alongside your server, a dedicated server may be a better option.

Can I modify the server settings?

Yes, with third-party server software, you can modify the server settings to your liking. However, with official server software, the settings are limited.

Do I need to pay to host a server?

With official server software, yes, you’ll need to pay a fee to host on official servers. However, with third-party software, you’ll only need to pay for the server rental and in some cases, additional services such as DDoS protection.

That’s it, Dev! We hope this guide has been helpful in showing you how to host your own server for Ark: Survival Evolved. With your own server, you’ll have complete control over your gameplay experience and enjoy reliable performance.