Introduction
Greetings fellow gamers and server enthusiasts! Are you itching to run your own ARK server on Ubuntu, but don’t know where to start? You’ve come to the right place. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the steps of setting up an ARK server on Ubuntu, as well as the advantages and disadvantages of doing so. Let’s dive in!
Overview of ARK Server Setup on Ubuntu
ARK: Survival Evolved is a thrilling open-world survival game that allows players to explore a vast and dangerous prehistoric world. While the game is incredibly fun to play, running your own server can enhance your gaming experience. By setting up your own ARK server on Ubuntu, you get to customize your gaming environment, play with your own community, and enjoy lag-free gameplay. Additionally, running your own server can help reduce your overall hosting costs.
Setting up an ARK server on Ubuntu may seem daunting at first, but this guide will make the process easier. With Ubuntu, you get a secure and reliable operating system that is easy to install and maintain. Furthermore, Ubuntu is an open-source platform and is free to use.
Requirements for Setting Up an ARK Server on Ubuntu
Before you start setting up an ARK server on Ubuntu, make sure your system meets the following requirements:
Requirement |
Description |
|---|---|
CPU |
AMD FX-8320 or higher |
RAM |
8GB or higher |
Storage |
100GB or higher |
Operating System |
Ubuntu 18.04 or higher |
Network |
1 Gbps or higher |
Steps to Set Up an ARK Server on Ubuntu
Step 1: Install Ubuntu
The first step to setting up an ARK server on Ubuntu is to install Ubuntu on your system. You can download Ubuntu from the official website. Once downloaded, burn the ISO to a DVD or create a bootable USB drive. Follow the installation instructions to install Ubuntu on your system.
Step 2: Install SteamCMD
After installing Ubuntu, you need to install SteamCMD. SteamCMD is a command-line tool that allows you to install and update Steam games and dedicated servers. To install SteamCMD, run the following command:
sudo apt-get install steamcmd
Step 3: Install ARK Server
Once SteamCMD is installed, you can install the ARK server. To install the ARK server, run the following command:
steamcmd +login anonymous +force_install_dir /path/to/arkserver +app_update 376030 validate +quit
Replace “/path/to/arkserver” with the directory where you want to install the ARK server.
Step 4: Configure ARK Server
After installing the ARK server, you need to configure it. To configure the server, navigate to the “/path/to/arkserver/ShooterGame/Saved/Config/LinuxServer” directory and edit the “GameUserSettings.ini” file. Here, you can configure various settings such as server name, password, player limit, and more.
Step 5: Start ARK Server
After configuring the server, you can start the ARK server. To start the ARK server, run the following command:
./ShooterGame/Binaries/Linux/ShooterGameServer TheIsland? -server -log
This will start the ARK server on Ubuntu.
Step 6: Join ARK Server
After starting the ARK server, you can join it from the game client. In the game client, navigate to the “Join ARK” screen and search for your server by name or IP address. Once you find your server, click “Join” to start playing on your own ARK server.
Advantages of Setting Up an ARK Server on Ubuntu
Advantage 1: Customization
Setting up an ARK server on Ubuntu allows you to customize your gaming environment. You can modify the server settings to suit your play style, such as adjusting player limits, increasing experience gain, and more. Additionally, you can install mods to enhance your gaming experience or create your own mods.
Advantage 2: Community
Running your own ARK server on Ubuntu allows you to build your own gaming community. You can invite friends or create a public server and attract players from around the world. By creating a community, you can foster camaraderie and create lasting friendships.
Advantage 3: Cost Savings
Running your own ARK server on Ubuntu can help reduce your overall hosting costs. By self-hosting, you can avoid paying for expensive hosting plans and have more control over your server. Additionally, by hosting your own server, you can avoid paying for additional services such as voice chat or website hosting.
Disadvantages of Setting Up an ARK Server on Ubuntu
Disadvantage 1: Technical Expertise
Setting up an ARK server on Ubuntu requires technical expertise. If you’re not familiar with Linux or command-line interfaces, you may find the process challenging. Additionally, troubleshooting server issues can be time-consuming and frustrating.
Disadvantage 2: Maintenance
Running your own ARK server on Ubuntu requires maintenance. You need to regularly update the server and install patches to ensure the game runs smoothly. Additionally, you need to monitor the server for performance issues and ensure it is secure from outside threats.
Disadvantage 3: Resources
Running your own ARK server on Ubuntu requires resources. ARK servers require a lot of RAM and storage, and running multiple servers can quickly deplete your resources. Additionally, hosting your own server can affect your internet speeds and increase your electricity usage.
FAQs
FAQ 1: What ports do I need to open to run an ARK server on Ubuntu?
To run an ARK server on Ubuntu, you need to open the following ports:
Port |
Description |
|---|---|
27015 |
Game client port |
7777 |
Game server port |
32330 |
Steam query port |
FAQ 2: Can I run multiple ARK servers on Ubuntu?
Yes, you can run multiple ARK servers on Ubuntu. However, running multiple servers can quickly deplete your resources and affect server performance.
FAQ 3: How do I update my ARK server on Ubuntu?
To update your ARK server on Ubuntu, you need to run the following command:
steamcmd +login anonymous +force_install_dir /path/to/arkserver +app_update 376030 +quit
FAQ 4: How do I install mods on my ARK server on Ubuntu?
To install mods on your ARK server on Ubuntu, you need to navigate to the “/path/to/arkserver/ShooterGame/Content/Mods” directory and place your mod files in a subdirectory. Then, edit the “GameUserSettings.ini” file and add the mod ID to the “ActiveMods” parameter.
FAQ 5: Can I run my ARK server on Ubuntu without SteamCMD?
No, you cannot run your ARK server on Ubuntu without SteamCMD. SteamCMD is required to install and update the ARK server.
FAQ 6: How do I backup my ARK server on Ubuntu?
To backup your ARK server on Ubuntu, you need to copy the entire “/path/to/arkserver” directory to a backup location.
FAQ 7: How do I restore my ARK server from a backup on Ubuntu?
To restore your ARK server from a backup on Ubuntu, you need to copy the backup files to the “/path/to/arkserver” directory and start the server.
FAQ 8: Can I run my ARK server on Ubuntu without a dedicated graphics card?
Yes, you can run your ARK server on Ubuntu without a dedicated graphics card. The server does not require a graphics card to run.
FAQ 9: Can I run my ARK server on Ubuntu with a low-end CPU?
No, you cannot run your ARK server on Ubuntu with a low-end CPU. ARK servers require a powerful CPU to handle the processing demands.
FAQ 10: How do I monitor my ARK server on Ubuntu?
To monitor your ARK server on Ubuntu, you can use third-party monitoring tools such as Ark Server Manager or Battlemetrics.
FAQ 11: How do I secure my ARK server on Ubuntu?
To secure your ARK server on Ubuntu, you need to configure your firewall to only allow incoming connections from authorized IP addresses. Additionally, you can use third-party security tools to monitor your server for potential threats.
FAQ 12: Can I run my ARK server on Ubuntu without a static IP address?
While it is possible to run your ARK server on Ubuntu without a static IP address, it is not recommended. A static IP address ensures your server is always accessible and reduces the risk of connectivity issues.
FAQ 13: How do I optimize my ARK server on Ubuntu?
To optimize your ARK server on Ubuntu, you can adjust the server settings to reduce lag and improve performance. Additionally, you can install performance-enhancing mods or use third-party optimization tools.
Conclusion
Setting up an ARK server on Ubuntu can enhance your gaming experience and give you more control over your gaming environment. By following the steps outlined in this guide, you can set up your own ARK server and customize it to suit your play style. However, running your own server comes with its own set of challenges, and it requires technical expertise and maintenance. Nevertheless, the benefits of running your own server can outweigh the disadvantages. So, what are you waiting for? Start setting up your own ARK server on Ubuntu today and enjoy endless hours of prehistoric adventure!
DISCLAIMER:
The information provided in this guide is for educational purposes only. We do not endorse or encourage copyright infringement or illegal activity. We are not responsible for any damages or legal ramifications that may arise from using the information provided in this guide.