How to Host a Dedicated Server in Ark: A Step-by-Step Guide for Dev

Hello Dev, if you’re reading this article, it means you’re interested in hosting a dedicated server for Ark: Survival Evolved. Hosting your own server can be a great way to tailor your gaming experience and play with friends. In this guide, we’ll show you how to set up your own server in Ark. Let’s get started!

What is a Dedicated Server?

Before we dive into the technical details, let’s first define what a dedicated server is. A dedicated server is a type of server that is exclusively used by one user or organization. In the context of Ark, hosting a dedicated server means that you have complete control over the server’s settings and can customize the game to your liking.

Advantages of Hosting a Dedicated Server

There are many advantages to hosting your own dedicated server for Ark. Here are a few:

Now that you know the advantages of hosting a dedicated server, let’s move on to the technical details.

How to Host a Dedicated Server in Ark

Step 1: Download and Install the Ark Dedicated Server Software

The first step to hosting your own Ark server is to download and install the dedicated server software. You can download it directly from the Steam store.

Once you’ve downloaded the software, you’ll want to install it on a dedicated machine or VPS.

Step 2: Configure the Ark Dedicated Server Settings

Once you’ve installed the software, you’ll need to configure the server settings to your liking. This includes settings such as difficulty level, taming speed, and player damage.

You can access the server settings by navigating to the server configuration file, which is located in the following directory:

C:\Program Files (x86)\Steam\steamapps\common\ARK\ShooterGame\Saved\Config\WindowsServer

Open the Game.ini file and modify the settings to your liking. Be sure to save the changes before closing the file.

Step 3: Port Forwarding

Next, you’ll need to set up port forwarding on your router to allow outside access to the server.

The specific steps for port forwarding will vary depending on your router make and model. You can find detailed instructions on how to set up port forwarding for your router on PortForward.com.

Make sure to forward ports 7777, 7778, and 27015.

Step 4: Start the Ark Dedicated Server

Once you’ve completed the previous steps, you’re ready to start the Ark dedicated server. Open the Ark Dedicated Server software and click on the start button.

The server will take a few minutes to start up, and you’ll be able to see the progress in the console window.

Step 5: Join Your Server

Finally, you can join your own server in Ark by navigating to the server browser and adding it to your favorites. The server should appear in the list of servers, and you can join by clicking on it and entering the password you set up (if any).

FAQ

How Much Does it Cost to Host an Ark Dedicated Server?

The cost of hosting an Ark dedicated server will depend on several factors such as the hosting provider you choose, the server specs, and the number of players you expect to host.

Hosting a server on your own machine or VPS will be the cheapest option, but may not offer adequate performance for larger player counts.

Alternatively, you can choose to use a dedicated server hosting provider such as Nitrado or Host Havoc, which offer Ark-specific hosting packages starting from around $10 per month.

How Many Players Can I Host on My Server?

The number of players your server can host will depend on several factors such as server specs, network bandwidth, and game settings.

As a general rule of thumb, you should aim for at least 2GB of RAM per 20 players. If you’re hosting a larger server, you may want to consider upgrading to a dedicated server with more powerful hardware.

What Are Some Recommended Server Settings?

The recommended server settings will depend on your personal preferences and play style. However, here are a few settings that many players find enjoyable:

What Are Some Common Issues with Ark Dedicated Servers?

Some common issues that players may experience with Ark dedicated servers include:

• Connection issues: Make sure your server is properly port forwarded and you have the correct IP address.
• Server crashes: This can happen due to insufficient hardware or incorrect server settings.
• Performance issues: Players may experience lag or low FPS if the server hardware is insufficient.

If you experience any of these issues, try tweaking your server settings or upgrading your hardware.

Conclusion

Hosting your own dedicated server for Ark can be a fun and rewarding experience. By following the steps outlined in this guide, you’ll be able to create your own custom gaming environment and play with friends.

If you have any questions or comments, feel free to leave them in the comments section below. Good luck and happy hosting!