Hosting an Ark Server: Everything Dev Needs to Know

Welcome, Dev! If you’re interested in hosting your own Ark server, you’ve come to the right place. In this article, we’ll guide you through the process step-by-step and provide all the information you need to get started. So, let’s dive in!

Understanding Ark: What is it and why host a server?

Ark: Survival Evolved is a popular multiplayer game that has gained a massive following worldwide. The game takes place on an island filled with prehistoric creatures, and players must survive by gathering resources, building shelters and taming dinosaurs. Hosting your own server allows you to customize the gameplay experience, play with friends and control who joins your game.

If you’re a die-hard fan of Ark or want to create a unique gaming experience, hosting your own server is the way to go. Plus, it’s a great way to learn about server administration and gain useful skills.

Choosing the Right Hosting Service

The first step in hosting an Ark server is choosing the right hosting service. There are several options available, including Nitrado, Survival Servers, and Host Havoc. Each has its own pricing plans, server locations and features, so it’s essential to do your research and choose one that fits your needs.

When comparing hosting services, look for the following features:

Server Configuration

Once you’ve chosen a hosting service, the next step is to configure your server. The configuration process depends on the hosting service you choose, but most services provide an easy-to-use control panel where you can adjust settings.

Some important settings to consider include:

• Server name: Choose a unique and memorable name for your server.
• Difficulty level: Adjust the game’s difficulty level to your liking.
• Player limit: Set the maximum number of players allowed on your server.
• Taming speed: Adjust how quickly players can tame dinosaurs.
• Harvesting rate: Adjust how quickly players can gather resources.
• Experience rate: Adjust how quickly players gain experience.
• Mod support: If you plan to use mods, make sure to enable them.

Inviting Players

Once your server is set up and configured, it’s time to invite players to join. The easiest way to do this is by sharing your server’s IP address and password with them. To find your server’s IP address, check the control panel of your hosting service.

It’s also a good idea to create a Discord channel or other chat platform where players can communicate and coordinate.

Managing Your Server

As a server administrator, it’s your responsibility to manage your server and ensure that everything runs smoothly. This includes monitoring performance, enforcing rules, and addressing issues that arise.

Some best practices for server management include:

• Enforcing rules: Set clear rules for your server and enforce them consistently.
• Moderating chat: Monitor chat and remove any inappropriate messages or behavior.
• Backing up data: Regularly back up your server data to avoid losing progress.
• Updating mods: If you use mods, make sure to keep them updated to avoid compatibility issues.
• Monitoring performance: Keep an eye on server performance and address any issues that arise promptly.

FAQ

What are the system requirements for hosting an Ark server?

The recommended minimum system requirements for hosting an Ark server are:

• Windows 7 or later
• 8GB RAM
• 2GHz Dual-Core CPU
• 10GB storage space

Can I host an Ark server on my own computer?

Yes, it’s possible to host an Ark server on your own computer, but it requires a lot of resources and can significantly impact performance. It’s recommended to use a dedicated hosting service instead.

How many players can join my server?

The player limit for your server depends on your hosting service and the configuration settings you choose. Most hosting services offer plans with varying player limits, so choose one that fits your needs.

Can I use mods on my server?

Yes, you can use mods on your server, but it’s important to ensure that they’re compatible with the game version and other mods you’re using. Make sure to keep your mods updated to avoid issues.

What happens if my server crashes?

If your server crashes, your hosting service should automatically restart it. However, it’s important to regularly back up your server data to avoid losing progress.

How do I prevent cheating or griefing on my server?

Enforcing clear rules and consistently monitoring chat can help prevent cheating and griefing. Additionally, many hosting services offer tools to help detect and prevent cheating.

Conclusion

Hosting an Ark server can be a fun and rewarding experience, but it requires time and effort to set up and manage. By following the steps and best practices outlined in this article, Dev can be well on their way to creating a unique and exciting Ark gaming experience. Good luck!