Can You Host Your Own ARK Server?

Hello Dev, are you interested in hosting your own ARK server but not sure where to start? In this article, we’ll explore the possibility of setting up your own server and the pros and cons that come with it. Let’s dive in.

What is ARK?

ARK: Survival Evolved is an open-world action-adventure survival game developed by Studio Wildcard. It was first released in 2017 and has since become a popular game among gamers. The game is set on an island with dinosaurs and other prehistoric creatures roaming around. Players must hunt, gather resources, and build structures to survive.

How does ARK work?

In ARK, players can join a server to play with others or host their own server to play with friends. The server can be customized in terms of game settings, mods, and rules. This allows players to tailor the game to their liking and play the way they want to.

Hosting your own server comes with both benefits and drawbacks. Let’s take a look at them.

Pros of Hosting Your Own ARK Server

1. Full Control

When you host your own server, you have complete control over the settings and rules of the game. This means you can customize the game to your liking and create your own unique experience.

2. Privacy

Hosting your own server ensures privacy as it is only accessible to the people you invite. This means you don’t have to worry about strangers joining your game or disrupting your gameplay.

3. Faster Performance

Hosting your own server can provide faster performance than playing on a public server. This is because you can allocate resources specifically for the game, which can result in better performance and fewer lags.

4. Cost-effective

Hosting your own server can be cost-effective in the long run, as it eliminates the need for monthly subscription fees to play on public servers.

Cons of Hosting Your Own ARK Server

1. Technical Knowledge

Hosting your own server requires some technical knowledge, such as configuring the server settings, managing resources, and troubleshooting issues. If you are not familiar with these tasks, it can be challenging to set up a server on your own.

2. Time-Consuming

Setting up and maintaining a server can be time-consuming, as it requires regular updates, backups, and maintenance. If you have a busy schedule, it may not be feasible to host your own server.

3. Security Risks

Hosting your own server can pose security risks, as you are responsible for securing the server. Failure to do so can result in data breaches and compromise the privacy of your players.

4. Technical Issues

Technical issues can arise when hosting your own server, such as unexpected crashes or compatibility issues. This can result in downtime and disrupt the gameplay experience.

How to Host Your Own ARK Server

Step 1: Choose Your Hardware

The first step in hosting your own ARK server is choosing the hardware. You will need a computer with sufficient resources to run the server, such as a high-speed processor, large RAM, and ample storage. You can also use a dedicated server or cloud hosting service.

Step 2: Install the Server Files

The next step is installing the ARK server files on your computer or server. You can download the files from the official ARK website or from a third-party hosting site.

Step 3: Configure Server Settings

Once the server files are installed, you can configure the game settings, such as server name, password, game rules, and mods. You can also adjust the graphics settings and performance settings for optimal gameplay.

Step 4: Test the Server

Before inviting players to your server, it’s important to test the server to ensure it is running smoothly. You can do this by logging in to the game and testing the gameplay experience.

Step 5: Invite Players

Once the server is running smoothly, you can invite players to join. You can do this by sharing the IP address and password with your friends.

FAQ

Q1. Can I host an ARK server for free?

A1. While it is possible to host an ARK server for free using your own computer, it is not recommended as it can impact the performance of your computer and affect your gameplay experience. It’s better to use a dedicated server or cloud hosting service, which may require a fee.

Q2. How many players can join my ARK server?

A2. The number of players that can join your ARK server depends on the server resources and settings. Most servers can accommodate up to 100 players, but it’s best to check the system requirements and adjust the settings accordingly.

Q3. Can I install mods on my ARK server?

A3. Yes, you can install mods on your ARK server. This allows you to customize the game and add new features to enhance the gameplay experience. However, be sure to check that the mods are compatible with your version of ARK before installing them.

Conclusion

Hosting your own ARK server can be a great way to enjoy the game with friends and customize the gameplay settings to your liking. However, it also comes with challenges and risks, such as technical knowledge requirements and security concerns. If you decide to host a server, be sure to choose the appropriate hardware and follow the necessary steps to ensure a smooth and secure experience for you and your players.