How to Host a Non Dedicated Ark Server

Hello Dev, are you looking to host a non-dedicated Ark server? If you are, you’ve come to the right place. In this article, we will be discussing everything you need to know about hosting a non-dedicated Ark server. From the basics to the more advanced features, we’ll have you up and running in no time.

What is a Non-Dedicated Ark Server?

Before we dive into the details of how to host a non-dedicated Ark server, let’s first define what it is. A non-dedicated server is a server that is hosted from within the game client itself, rather than from a server hosting company. This means that you will be hosting the server on your own computer, and other players will be able to join your game using your IP address.

Non-dedicated servers are great for playing Ark with friends or family members, as they allow you to have a private server that only people you invite can play on. They are also ideal if you want to play Ark with a small group of people, as they can be much cheaper than renting a dedicated server.

Step 1: Setting up the Server

The first step in hosting a non-dedicated Ark server is to set up your game client to allow hosting. To do this, follow these steps:

Step
Action
1
Open Steam and go to your library
2
Right-click on Ark: Survival Evolved and select “Properties”
3
Click on the “Local Files” tab, then click “Browse Local Files”
4
Open the “ShooterGame” folder, then the “Binaries” folder, then the “Win64” folder
5
Double-click on “ShooterGameServer.exe”

This will open up the Ark server hosting interface. From here, you can configure your server settings, such as player count, difficulty level, and game mode. You can also set a password for your server to keep unwanted players out.

Step 2: Port Forwarding

Now that you’ve set up your server, it’s time to configure your router to allow other players to connect to it. This is done through a process called port forwarding. Port forwarding allows traffic to pass through your router and reach your server.

The specific steps for port forwarding will vary depending on your router, but the general process is as follows:

  1. Access your router’s settings page
  2. Find the “Port Forwarding” or “Virtual Server” section
  3. Add a new rule for port 7777 (or whichever port you set up your server on)
  4. Specify your computer’s local IP address as the destination
  5. Save your changes

Once you’ve completed these steps, other players should be able to connect to your server using your public IP address and the port you specified.

Step 3: Inviting Players to Your Server

Now that your server is up and running and port forwarding is set up, it’s time to invite players to your server. To do this, follow these steps:

  1. Open the game client and navigate to the server browser
  2. Select “Unofficial” in the server filter options
  3. Enter your server’s name or IP address in the search bar
  4. Select your server from the list, then click “Join”
  5. Enter the password for your server (if you set one)
  6. Enjoy playing Ark with your friends!
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FAQ

How many players can join a non-dedicated server?

The maximum number of players that can join a non-dedicated server is 8, including the host.

Can I run other programs on my computer while hosting the server?

Yes, you can run other programs on your computer while hosting the server. However, it’s important to note that hosting a server can be resource-intensive, so it’s best to close other programs to ensure optimal performance.

Can I save my progress on a non-dedicated server?

Yes, you can save your progress on a non-dedicated server. However, it’s important to note that your progress will only be saved on the host’s computer. If the host leaves the game or shuts down their computer, any unsaved progress will be lost.

Can I customize the settings for my non-dedicated server?

Yes, you can customize the settings for your non-dedicated server. This includes player count, difficulty level, game mode, and more.

Do I need a powerful computer to host a non-dedicated server?

You don’t need a powerful computer to host a non-dedicated server, but it’s recommended to have a computer with at least 8GB of RAM and a decent processor. Hosting a server can be resource-intensive, so the better hardware you have, the smoother your server will run.

Conclusion

Hosting a non-dedicated Ark server is a great way to play with friends or family members in a private setting. With the right setup and configuration, you can have your server up and running in no time. We hope this guide has been helpful in getting you started on hosting your own non-dedicated Ark server. Happy gaming!