How To Host Dedicated Server On Ark?

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How To Host Dedicated Server On Ark

How To Host Dedicated Server On Ark: Survival Evolved

Want to unleash the true potential of Ark: Survival Evolved? Learn how to host a dedicated server on Ark and create your own custom gaming experience with friends! This guide provides a comprehensive overview, ensuring a smooth and successful setup.

Introduction: Taking Control of Your Ark Experience

Ark: Survival Evolved offers a unique multiplayer experience, but playing on public servers can come with limitations – lag, unwanted players, and restrictive rules. Hosting a dedicated server on Ark gives you complete control over your game, allowing you to tailor the rules, customize the world, and build a thriving community with your friends. This means defining your own adventure.

Why Host Your Own Ark Server? The Benefits

Choosing to host your own dedicated server on Ark unlocks a wealth of benefits that significantly enhance the gameplay experience.

  • Complete Control: You’re the master of your domain. Set the rules, decide who plays, and tailor the server to your preferred playstyle.
  • Customization Options: Tweak the game settings, install mods, and create a truly unique Ark experience.
  • Improved Performance: Ditch the lag and enjoy smoother gameplay on a server specifically designed for your needs.
  • Community Building: Forge stronger bonds with your friends and create a dedicated community around your server.
  • Persistent World: The game world continues to exist even when you’re not playing, allowing for ongoing progression and development.

The Essential Requirements: Hardware and Software

Before diving into the setup process, ensure you have the necessary hardware and software components:

  • Hardware:
    • Processor: A multi-core processor (Intel Core i5 or AMD Ryzen 5 or better recommended).
    • RAM: At least 8GB of RAM, 16GB or more is highly recommended for larger player counts and modded servers.
    • Storage: A solid-state drive (SSD) is highly recommended for faster load times; 100GB or more of free space.
    • Network: A stable and reliable internet connection with good upload speed (at least 10 Mbps).
  • Software:
    • Operating System: Windows Server (recommended), Windows 10/11, or Linux.
    • SteamCMD: The command-line version of the Steam client used to download and update the Ark server files.
    • Ark: Survival Evolved Server Files: Obtained through SteamCMD.
    • Optional: Remote desktop software (e.g., TeamViewer, Chrome Remote Desktop) for managing the server remotely.

Step-by-Step Guide: Setting Up Your Ark Dedicated Server

How to host a dedicated server on Ark can seem daunting, but following these steps simplifies the process:

  1. Install SteamCMD:
    • Download SteamCMD from the Valve Developer Community website.
    • Extract the SteamCMD files to a dedicated folder (e.g., C:SteamCMD).
  2. Download Ark Server Files:
    • Open a command prompt and navigate to your SteamCMD directory.
    • Run the following commands:
      • login anonymous
      • force_install_dir C:ArkServer (or your desired installation directory)
      • app_update 376030 validate
      • quit
    • This process will download the Ark server files to the specified directory.
  3. Configure the Server:
    • Navigate to the C:ArkServerShooterGameSavedConfigWindowsServer directory.
    • Create or edit the GameUserSettings.ini and Game.ini files. These files control various server settings, such as:
      • Server name
      • Admin password
      • Game rules (e.g., difficulty, resource harvesting rates, taming speed)
      • Mod configurations
  4. Create a Startup Script:
    • Create a .bat file (e.g., StartArkServer.bat) in the C:ArkServer directory.
    • Add the following command, modifying it to match your installation path and desired settings:
      batch
      start ShooterGameServer.exe "TheIsland?listen?SessionName=MyArkServer?ServerPassword=MyPassword?AdminPassword=MyAdminPassword" -servergamelog -log
    • Adjust the following parameters:
      • TheIsland: Map name (e.g., TheIsland, ScorchedEarth_P, Ragnarok)
      • SessionName: The name of your server that will be displayed in the server list.
      • ServerPassword: Password for players to join the server.
      • AdminPassword: Password required to access admin commands.
  5. Port Forwarding:
    • Access your router’s configuration page (usually through a web browser).
    • Forward the following ports to the internal IP address of your server machine:
      • 7777 (Game Port – UDP)
      • 7778 (Query Port – UDP)
      • 27015 (Steam Port – UDP)
      • Note: These ports may need to be adjusted based on your server configuration.
  6. Run the Server:
    • Double-click the StartArkServer.bat file to start the server.
    • The server will begin initializing, and you can monitor its progress in the command prompt window.
  7. Connect to Your Server:
    • Launch Ark: Survival Evolved and select “Join Ark.”
    • Filter the server list by “Unofficial” servers.
    • Find your server by its name and connect using the server password, if applicable.

Common Mistakes and Troubleshooting Tips

  • Incorrect Port Forwarding: Ensure the correct ports are forwarded to the correct internal IP address. Use a port checking tool to verify.
  • Firewall Issues: Make sure your firewall is not blocking the Ark server executable (ShooterGameServer.exe) or the required ports.
  • Outdated Server Files: Regularly update your server files using SteamCMD to ensure compatibility and stability.
  • Conflicting Mods: If using mods, ensure they are compatible with each other and the current version of Ark. Remove conflicting mods.
  • Insufficient Hardware: If your server experiences performance issues, consider upgrading your hardware, especially RAM.
  • Incorrect INI Settings: Double-check the GameUserSettings.ini and Game.ini files for typos or incorrect values.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

How much RAM do I need to host an Ark server?

  • The absolute minimum to host a dedicated server on Ark is 8GB of RAM, but 16GB or more is highly recommended, especially for larger player counts and modded servers. Insufficient RAM can lead to significant performance issues and crashes.

Can I host an Ark server on my gaming PC?

  • Yes, you can, but it’s not ideal. Hosting a dedicated server consumes significant resources. Your gaming PC will likely experience reduced performance while playing Ark on the same machine. A separate machine is recommended.

What is SteamCMD, and why do I need it?

  • SteamCMD is the command-line version of the Steam client. It’s essential because it’s the tool used to download and update the Ark: Survival Evolved server files directly from Steam.

How do I update my Ark server?

  • To update, stop your server, open SteamCMD, log in as anonymous, navigate to your server directory, and run the app_update 376030 validate command. Restart the server afterward. Regular updates are crucial for stability and security.

How do I become an admin on my Ark server?

  • Log into the server and open the console (usually by pressing the tilde key ~). Then, type enablecheats <AdminPassword> (replace <AdminPassword> with the password you set in the GameUserSettings.ini file). You can then use admin commands by typing cheat <command>. Remember to keep your admin password secure.

What are mods, and how do I install them on my server?

  • Mods are user-created content that can enhance or alter the gameplay of Ark. To install them, subscribe to the mods on the Steam Workshop. Add their IDs to the ActiveMods= line in the GameUserSettings.ini file (separated by commas). Ensure mods are compatible with each other and the server version.

How do I change the map on my Ark server?

  • Edit the startup script (e.g., StartArkServer.bat) and change the map name (e.g., TheIsland, ScorchedEarth_P, Ragnarok) after the ShooterGameServer.exe command. Always back up your save files before changing the map.

What ports do I need to forward for my Ark server?

  • You typically need to forward UDP ports 7777 (Game Port), 7778 (Query Port), and 27015 (Steam Port). Ensure these ports are open in your router and firewall to allow players to connect.

How do I back up my Ark server data?

  • The world data is located in the C:ArkServerShooterGameSaved directory. Regularly copy this entire directory to a safe location. Automated backups are highly recommended for data security.

Can I host an Ark server on a cloud provider (e.g., AWS, Google Cloud)?

  • Yes, you can! Cloud providers offer virtual machines (VMs) that can be used to host a dedicated server on Ark. This offers scalability and reliability, but typically comes with a recurring cost.

My server is lagging, what can I do?

  • Lag can be caused by several factors, including insufficient hardware, high player count, conflicting mods, and network issues. Try reducing the player count, removing conflicting mods, upgrading your hardware, or optimizing your network connection.

Is it legal to host an Ark server with mods?

  • Yes, it is legal to host an Ark server with mods, as long as you do not infringe on any copyrights or use mods that exploit the game or violate the Ark Terms of Service. Always download mods from reputable sources.

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