Ark PS4: How to Host Dedicated Server – A Complete Guide for Devs

Welcome, Dev, to our comprehensive guide on how to host a dedicated server for Ark on PS4. With the increasing number of players who want to create and manage their own Ark server, we have put together this guide to help you get started. In this article, we will cover everything you need to know about setting up and managing an Ark dedicated server on PS4, from the basic requirements to troubleshooting common issues.

What is a Dedicated Server?

Before we delve into the details of hosting an Ark dedicated server on PS4, let’s first understand what a dedicated server is. A dedicated server is a remote computer that is solely dedicated to running a specific application or game, in this case, Ark: Survival Evolved.

A dedicated server allows players to create and customize their own Ark world, set their own rules, and invite other players to join them. Hosting a dedicated server also ensures that the game runs smoothly, reduces lag, and provides players with a better gaming experience.

Why Host a Dedicated Server?

There are several reasons why hosting a dedicated server for Ark on PS4 is a good idea:

• You have complete control over your Ark world.
• You can customize your server settings and rules.
• You can invite your friends to play with you.
• You can create a community of players who share your interests.
• You can monetize your server by charging players for access or donations.

Now that you know why hosting a dedicated server is beneficial, let’s move on to the requirements and setup process.

Requirements for Hosting an Ark Dedicated Server on PS4

Before you start hosting an Ark dedicated server, your PS4 must meet the following requirements:

• A stable internet connection with a minimum upload and download speed of 10 Mbps.
• A PS4 console with at least 8 GB of RAM and a quad-core processor.
• A copy of Ark: Survival Evolved installed on the PS4.
• A PlayStation Plus subscription.
• A static IP address for your PS4 (optional).

Once you have met the above requirements, you are ready to start the setup process.

How to Host an Ark Dedicated Server on PS4: Step-by-Step Guide

Step 1: Create a Static IP Address for Your PS4

Creating a static IP address for your PS4 allows you to easily connect to your server and avoid any conflicts with other devices on your network. The steps to create a static IP address vary depending on your router, but in general, you need to:

• Log in to your router’s admin panel.
• Navigate to the DHCP settings section.
• Find your PS4’s MAC address and assign it a static IP address.

You can find detailed instructions on how to create a static IP address for your PS4 on your router’s manufacturer’s site.

Step 2: Port Forwarding

Port forwarding allows your PS4 to communicate with the internet and receive incoming connections from other players. To port forward, you need to:

• Log in to your router’s admin panel.
• Navigate to the port forwarding section.
• Add a new port forwarding rule for Ark: Survival Evolved.
• Enter your PS4’s static IP address and the port range for Ark.

You can find detailed instructions on how to port forward on your router’s manufacturer’s site.

Step 3: Download and Install the Dedicated Server Software

Once you have created a static IP address and port forwarded, you need to download and install the Ark dedicated server software. To do this, you need to:

• Go to the Ark: Survival Evolved website and download the dedicated server software for PS4.
• Extract the files to a folder on your PS4.
• Run the server using the command line or the graphical interface.

You can find detailed instructions on how to download and install the dedicated server software on the Ark: Survival Evolved website.

Step 4: Customize Your Server Settings and Rules

Now that you have installed the dedicated server software, you can customize your server settings and rules to your liking. To do this, you need to:

• Edit the server configuration file using a text editor.
• Change the settings and rules to your liking.
• Save the configuration file and restart the server.

You can find detailed instructions on how to customize your server settings and rules on the Ark: Survival Evolved website.

Step 5: Invite Players to Join Your Server

Once you have customized your server settings and rules, you can invite other players to join your server. To do this, you need to:

• Share your server’s IP address and port number with other players.
• Provide them with the server password (if you have set one).
• Instruct them to enter the server details in Ark’s server browser and connect.

You can find detailed instructions on how to invite players to join your server on the Ark: Survival Evolved website.

FAQs

1. Can I run an Ark dedicated server on my PC instead of on PS4?

Yes, you can host an Ark dedicated server on your PC using the Steam version of the game. The requirements and setup process are similar to those for hosting a server on PS4.

2. Can I host an Ark dedicated server without a PlayStation Plus subscription?

No, you need a PlayStation Plus subscription to host an Ark dedicated server on PS4.

3. How do I troubleshoot common issues with my Ark dedicated server?

If you encounter any issues with your Ark dedicated server, such as lag or crashes, you can try the following troubleshooting steps:

• Restart the server.
• Update the server software and the game.
• Check your internet connection and network settings.
• Reset your router and modem.

Conclusion

Hosting a dedicated server for Ark on PS4 is a fun and rewarding experience that allows you to create and manage your own Ark world. With our comprehensive guide, you now have all the information you need to get started, from the requirements to the setup process and troubleshooting common issues. We hope this article has been helpful, and we wish you the best of luck in your Ark hosting journey!