Hosting a Dedicated Server for ARK: A Comprehensive Guide

Greetings, Dev! Are you looking to host your own dedicated server for ARK: Survival Evolved? If so, you’ve come to the right place. In this article, we’ll guide you through the process of setting up your own dedicated server, step-by-step. Whether you’re an experienced server admin or a newcomer to the world of hosting, we’ve got you covered. Let’s get started!

Chapter 1: Choosing Your Server

When it comes to hosting a dedicated server for ARK, the first step is choosing the right server for your needs. There are a variety of hosting providers that offer dedicated servers, each with its own pros and cons. Here are a few factors to consider when making your choice:

Performance

The most important factor to consider is the server’s performance. You want a server that can handle the demands of running ARK smoothly, with enough processing power and RAM to support your players.

Location

Another important factor to consider is the server’s location. You want a server that is physically close to your players to minimize latency and ensure a smooth gaming experience.

Price

Of course, price is always a factor. You want to find a server that fits your budget without sacrificing performance or reliability.

Flexibility

Finally, you want to consider the flexibility of the hosting provider. Can you easily customize the server’s settings and configurations? Can you easily upgrade or downgrade the server’s performance as needed? These are important factors to consider.

Once you’ve considered these factors, you can start comparing hosting providers to find the best server for your needs.

Chapter 2: Setting Up Your Server

Once you’ve chosen your server, it’s time to set it up. Here are the steps you’ll need to follow:

Step 1: Install SteamCMD

The first step is to install SteamCMD, which is the command-line version of the Steam client. This will allow you to download and install the ARK server files on your server.

Step 2: Download ARK Server Files

Once you’ve installed SteamCMD, you’ll need to use it to download the ARK server files onto your server. This can take some time depending on your internet connection speed and the size of the files.

Step 3: Configure Server Settings

Next, you’ll need to configure your server settings. This includes things like server name, password, and game mode. You can do this by editing the GameUserSettings.ini file located in the server’s Config folder.

Step 4: Port Forwarding

You’ll also need to set up port forwarding on your router to allow players to connect to your server. This involves forwarding the ports that ARK uses (usually 7777, 7778, and 27015) to your server’s IP address.

Step 5: Launch Server

Finally, you’re ready to launch your server! Simply run the StartServer.bat file located in the server’s root folder, and your server will start up.

Chapter 3: Managing Your Server

Once your server is up and running, you’ll need to manage it to keep it running smoothly. Here are a few tips:

Backups

Regularly backing up your server files is essential in case something goes wrong. You can use a backup tool or simply make a copy of the relevant files on a regular basis.

Moderation

As the server admin, it’s up to you to enforce the rules and keep your players in line. Be sure to have clear rules in place and be consistent in enforcing them.

Customization

You can customize your server by adding mods, changing settings, and tweaking configurations. Just be sure to test any changes before implementing them.

Performance Monitoring

Keep an eye on your server’s performance to ensure it’s running smoothly. Use tools like Task Manager and Resource Monitor to monitor CPU and RAM usage, and take action if necessary.

Chapter 4: Frequently Asked Questions

Conclusion

Hosting a dedicated server for ARK: Survival Evolved can be a daunting task, but with the right guidance and tools, it’s a rewarding experience. We hope this guide has given you the knowledge and confidence you need to set up and manage your own server. Good luck, Dev!