Welcome, Devs! If you’re looking to host a dedicated server for ARK: Survival Evolved, this guide is for you. In this article, we’ll walk you through the entire process, from selecting a hosting provider to optimizing your server for the best possible performance. Whether you’re a seasoned veteran or a total newbie, we’ve got you covered.
1. Choosing a Hosting Provider
The first step in hosting a dedicated server for ARK is selecting a hosting provider. You have a lot of options to choose from, each with their own pros and cons. Here are some of the most popular choices:
Hosting Provider |
Pros |
Cons |
|---|---|---|
Host Havoc |
Great customer support, easy to use control panel, automatic server updates |
Slightly more expensive than other providers |
Nitrado |
Flexible pricing, good performance, easy to use control panel |
Can be confusing for beginners, limited customization options |
SurvivalServers |
High quality hardware, great customer support, lots of customization options |
Expensive, can be overwhelming for beginners |
1.1 Host Havoc
Host Havoc is a reliable and user-friendly hosting provider that offers great customer support and automatic server updates. Their control panel is easy to navigate, making it a good choice for beginners. However, they are slightly more expensive than other providers.
If you’re looking for a hassle-free hosting experience, Host Havoc is a solid choice. Their servers are optimized for performance, and their support team is available 24/7 to help you with any issues that arise.
1.2 Nitrado
Nitrado offers flexible pricing and a user-friendly control panel. They are known for their good performance and reliable uptime. However, their interface can be confusing for beginners, and they have limited customization options.
If you’re willing to take some time to learn the ins and outs of their system, Nitrado can be a great choice. They offer a lot of control over your server settings, and their pricing is competitive.
1.3 SurvivalServers
SurvivalServers is a high-end hosting provider that offers top-of-the-line hardware and lots of customization options. They have excellent customer support and a loyal following of satisfied customers. However, they are expensive and can be overwhelming for beginners.
If you’re willing to pay a premium for the best possible performance and customization options, SurvivalServers is a great choice. Their servers are optimized for ARK and other demanding games, and their support team is available 24/7.
2. Setting Up Your Server
Once you’ve chosen a hosting provider, the next step is setting up your server. This involves installing the game files and configuring your server settings. Here’s a step-by-step guide:
2.1 Installing the Game Files
The first step in setting up your server is installing the game files. This process will vary depending on your hosting provider, but it typically involves using a control panel or FTP client to upload the game files to your server.
Make sure you follow the instructions provided by your hosting provider. They will usually provide a tutorial or guide to help you through the process.
2.2 Configuring Your Server Settings
Once you’ve installed the game files, you’ll need to configure your server settings. This includes things like the server name, player limit, and difficulty level. You can access these settings through the game’s configuration files.
Again, your hosting provider should provide instructions on how to access and modify these files. Make sure you save your changes and restart your server for them to take effect.
2.3 Installing Mods
If you want to customize your server even further, you can install mods. Mods are user-created modifications that add new content and features to the game. They can be downloaded from the Steam Workshop or other modding sites.
To install a mod, simply subscribe to it on the Steam Workshop and restart your server. The mod should automatically download and install on your server.
3. Optimizing Your Server
Once your server is up and running, you may notice that it’s not performing as well as you’d like. Here are some tips for optimizing your server:
3.1 Adjusting Server Settings
One of the easiest ways to improve server performance is by adjusting your server settings. Things like player limit, difficulty level, and resource respawn rates can all have a big impact on your server’s performance.
Experiment with different settings to find the right balance for your server. You can also consult online forums and guides for advice on optimal settings.
3.2 Upgrading Your Hardware
If your server is still struggling, you may need to upgrade your hardware. This could mean upgrading your RAM, CPU, or storage capacity. Check with your hosting provider to see what options are available.
Keep in mind that hardware upgrades can be expensive, so make sure you’re getting the most bang for your buck.
3.3 Monitoring Your Server
Finally, it’s important to monitor your server regularly to ensure that it’s running smoothly. You can use tools like ARK Server Manager to monitor your server’s performance and troubleshoot any issues that arise.
Make sure you keep an eye on things like CPU usage, RAM usage, and server uptime. If you notice any issues, take action immediately to prevent them from getting worse.
FAQ
1. Can I host a server on my own computer?
While it’s possible to host a server on your own computer, it’s not recommended. Hosting a server requires a lot of resources, and running a server on your personal computer can slow it down significantly.
2. How many players can I have on my server?
The number of players you can have on your server depends on your server settings and hardware. Most hosting providers offer servers with player limits ranging from 10 to 100.
3. Can I use mods on my server?
Yes! Mods can add a lot of new content and features to your server. Just make sure you follow the installation instructions carefully and test all mods before adding them to your server.
4. How do I backup my server?
Most hosting providers offer automatic server backups, but it’s always a good idea to create manual backups as well. You can do this by downloading your server files using an FTP client.
5. How do I update my server?
Most hosting providers offer automatic server updates, but you can also update your server manually using the game’s configuration files. Check with your hosting provider for instructions on how to do this.
Conclusion
Hosting a dedicated server for ARK can be a challenging but rewarding experience. By selecting the right hosting provider, setting up your server correctly, and optimizing its performance, you can create a truly unique and immersive gaming experience for you and your friends.
We hope this guide has been useful to you. If you have any questions or feedback, please let us know in the comments below. Happy hosting!