ARK Hosting a Non-Dedicated Server: Everything Dev Needs to Know

Hey Dev! Are you looking for a way to enjoy playing ARK: Survival Evolved with your friends or family without the hassle of setting up a dedicated server? Look no further! In this article, we’ll guide you through hosting a non-dedicated server for ARK, complete with tips, tricks, and frequently asked questions.

What is a Non-Dedicated Server?

If you’re not into computers, you might not know what exactly a non-dedicated server is. Essentially, a non-dedicated server is a simpler way of hosting a game server. Instead of having to buy or rent an entire server, you can set up a non-dedicated server on your personal computer or on a dedicated gaming computer.

Before we dive into the details of how to set up a non-dedicated server, there are a few things you need to know:

How to Set Up a Non-Dedicated Server for ARK

Setting up a non-dedicated server for ARK is relatively easy, but there are a few things you need to do before you get started:

Step 1: Install ARK: Survival Evolved on Your Computer

The first thing you need to do is install ARK: Survival Evolved on your computer. You can do this through Steam or through the Epic Games Store. Once you’ve installed the game, launch it and create a single-player game to get started.

Step 2: Find Your IP Address

Once you’ve created a single-player game, you need to find your IP address. Your IP address is a unique numerical address that identifies your personal computer or server on the internet. You can find your IP address by searching “What’s my IP address” on Google or by typing “ipconfig” into the command prompt on your computer.

Step 3: Configure Your Firewall and Port Forwarding

Next, you need to configure your firewall and port forwarding. This is where things can get a little tricky, so follow these steps carefully:

Step 3.1: Configure Your Firewall

The first thing you need to do is configure your firewall to allow ARK: Survival Evolved to connect to the internet. To do this, you need to add an exception to your firewall settings. Here’s how:

1. Open the Windows Defender Firewall by searching for it in the start menu.
2. Click on “Allow an app or feature through Windows Defender Firewall.”
3. Click on “Change Settings.”
4. Click on “Allow another app.”
5. Select the ARK: Survival Evolved executable file and click “Add.”
6. Make sure both “Private” and “Public” are checked.
7. Click “OK” to save your changes.

Step 3.2: Port Forwarding

The next thing you need to do is configure port forwarding on your router. This allows external devices to connect to your network and access specific ports on your computer. Here’s how to do it:

1. Open your router’s settings page.
2. Find the port forwarding section.
3. Add a new port forwarding rule for ARK: Survival Evolved.
4. Specify the following settings:
   • Protocol: TCP/UDP
   • External Port: 7777
   • Internal IP: Your computer’s IP address
   • Internal Port: 7777
5. Save your changes and restart your router.

Step 4: Launch ARK: Survival Evolved and Invite Your Friends

Now that you’ve set up your non-dedicated server, it’s time to launch ARK: Survival Evolved and invite your friends to join you! Here’s how:

1. Launch ARK: Survival Evolved.
2. Click on “Host/Local.”
3. Change the “Session” setting to “Non-Dedicated Server.”
4. Give your server a name and a password (optional).
5. Click “Play Single Player” to launch the game.
6. Press “Tab” to open the console.
7. Type “open YOURIPADDRESS:7777” and press enter.
8. Your friends can now join your game by searching for your server in the server browser or by directly connecting to your IP address.

FAQ

What are the Advantages of Hosting a Non-Dedicated Server?

Hosting a non-dedicated server has several advantages:

• It’s cheaper than setting up a dedicated server or renting one from a hosting provider.
• You can play with your friends or family without having to join a public server.
• You have more control over the server settings and game rules.

What are the Disadvantages of Hosting a Non-Dedicated Server?

Hosting a non-dedicated server has a few disadvantages:

• You’re limited by the performance of your personal computer or gaming computer.
• You’re limited by your internet connection speed and bandwidth.
• You may experience lag or connectivity issues if too many players join your server.

Can I Play ARK: Survival Evolved on a Non-Dedicated Server if I Don’t Have a Gaming Computer?

Yes, you can! While a gaming computer is recommended for hosting a non-dedicated server, you can also use a regular computer or a laptop. Just make sure your computer meets the minimum system requirements for ARK: Survival Evolved.

How Many Players Can Join My Non-Dedicated Server?

You can have up to eight players join your non-dedicated server. Keep in mind that the more players you have, the more strain will be placed on your personal computer or gaming computer.

How Do I Change the Server Settings?

To change the server settings, you need to open the command console by pressing “Tab” and enter the desired commands. Here are a few examples:

• To change the server name: “SetServerName YOURSERVERNAME”
• To change the server password: “ServerPassword YOURPASSWORD”
• To change the game mode: “SetGameMode YOURGAMEMODE”
• To change the time of day: “SetTimeOfDay YOURTIME”

Conclusion

Hosting a non-dedicated server for ARK: Survival Evolved can be a fun and simple way to play with your friends or family. By following the steps outlined in this article, you can set up your own non-dedicated server and enjoy hours of prehistoric adventure. Just remember to keep your computer and internet connection in mind, and don’t hesitate to experiment with different server settings and game modes. Have fun!