How to Host Xbox Ark Server from PC: A Guide for Dev

Are you a Dev who wants to learn how to host an Xbox Ark server from your PC? Look no further! In this guide, we will walk you through the process step-by-step, so you can get your server up and running in no time!

Step 1: Check Your PC Specifications

Before you begin hosting your Xbox Ark server, you need to make sure your PC meets the minimum system requirements for the game. Here are the requirements:

Minimum System Requirements	Recommended System Requirements
OS: Windows 7/8.1/10 (64-bit versions)	OS: Windows 7/8.1/10 (64-bit versions)
Processor: Intel Core i5-2400/AMD FX-8320 or better	Processor: Intel Core i7-4770/AMD FX-9590 or better
Memory: 8 GB RAM	Memory: 16 GB RAM
Graphics: NVIDIA GTX 670 2GB/AMD Radeon HD 7870 2GB or better	Graphics: NVIDIA GTX 1070 8GB/AMD Radeon RX 480 8GB or better
DirectX: Version 10	DirectX: Version 10

Make sure your PC meets these requirements before proceeding to the next step.

Step 2: Purchase and Download Xbox Ark

The next step is to purchase and download Xbox Ark. You can purchase the game from the Xbox store or from a third-party retailer. Once you have purchased the game, download it onto your PC.

Step 3: Port Forwarding

In order to host your Xbox Ark server from your PC, you need to port forward your router. Here is how you can port forward:

Step 3.1: Find Your Router’s IP Address

The first step in port forwarding is to find your router’s IP address. Here is how you can find it:

Windows:

1. Open the Command Prompt.
2. Type “ipconfig” and hit enter.
3. Look for the “Default Gateway” under the Ethernet or Wi-Fi connection.
4. This is your router’s IP address.

Mac:

1. Open the Terminal.
2. Type “netstat -nr | grep default” and hit enter.
3. Look for the IP address next to “gateway”.
4. This is your router’s IP address.

Step 3.2: Access Your Router’s Settings

The next step is to access your router’s settings. Here is how you can do it:

1. Type your router’s IP address into your web browser.
2. Enter your router’s username and password (if prompted).
3. Once you are logged in, look for the “Port Forwarding” or “Virtual Servers” section.

Step 3.3: Set Up Port Forwarding

The final step is to set up port forwarding. Here is how you can do it:

1. Create a new port forwarding rule.
2. Enter the following information:
• Service Name: Ark Server
• Internal IP Address: Your PC’s IP Address
• Internal Port: 7777
• External Port: 7777
• Protocol: Both

Once you have set up port forwarding, you are ready to move on to the next step.

Step 4: Set Up Your Xbox Ark Server

Now that you have port forwarded your router, you can set up your Xbox Ark server. Here is how you can do it:

Step 4.1: Download and Install Ark Server Manager

Ark Server Manager is a tool that makes it easy to manage your Xbox Ark server. Here is how you can download and install it:

1. Go to the Ark Server Manager website.
2. Download the latest version of Ark Server Manager.
3. Run the installation file and follow the on-screen instructions.

Step 4.2: Configure Your Server Settings

Once you have installed Ark Server Manager, you need to configure your server settings. Here is how you can do it:

1. Open Ark Server Manager.
2. Click “New Profile” and enter a name for your server.
3. Click “Create Profile” to create your new server.
4. Click “Edit Profile” to configure your server settings.
5. Configure your server settings to your liking and click “Save”.

Step 4.3: Start Your Server

The final step is to start your Xbox Ark server. Here is how you can do it:

1. Open Ark Server Manager.
2. Select your server profile and click “Start”.
3. Your server should now be up and running!

FAQ

How many players can join my Xbox Ark server?

Your Xbox Ark server can support up to 70 players.

Can I host my Xbox Ark server on a laptop?

Yes, you can host your Xbox Ark server on a laptop as long as it meets the minimum system requirements.

What is the difference between a dedicated server and a non-dedicated server?

A dedicated server is a server that is dedicated solely to hosting a game, while a non-dedicated server is a server that is hosted by a player who is also playing the game.

Do I need to keep my PC running 24/7 to host my Xbox Ark server?

Yes, you need to keep your PC running 24/7 to host your Xbox Ark server.

Can I customize my Xbox Ark server?

Yes, you can customize your Xbox Ark server by editing the server settings.

Can I install mods on my Xbox Ark server?

No, you cannot install mods on an Xbox Ark server.

Now that you know how to host an Xbox Ark server from your PC, you can invite your friends and start playing!