How to Host an Ark Server on PS4

Greetings, Dev! Are you interested in hosting an Ark server on your PS4 but don’t know where to start? Look no further! This article will guide you through the process step-by-step, ensuring that you’ll be up and running in no time.

Introduction

Before we dive into the nitty-gritty of hosting an Ark server on your PS4, let’s take a moment to discuss what Ark is and how it works.

Ark is a survival game set in a prehistoric world filled with dinosaurs and other creatures. In Ark, players must gather resources, craft items, and build structures to survive. The game also includes a multiplayer mode, which allows players to band together and form tribes.

Hosting a server in Ark allows you to customize your gameplay experience and play with your friends without the restrictions of a public server. With your own server, you can set your own rules, adjust the game settings, and control who can join.

Part 1: Setting Up Your PS4

The first step in hosting an Ark server on your PS4 is to ensure that your console is set up correctly.

Step 1: Connect to the Internet

Make sure that your PS4 is connected to the internet. You can do this by going to Settings > Network > Set Up Internet Connection. Follow the on-screen instructions to connect to your Wi-Fi network.

Step 2: Enable UPnP

Next, you’ll need to enable UPnP (Universal Plug and Play) on your PS4. UPnP allows devices on your network to automatically configure ports and settings for online gaming.

To enable UPnP on your PS4, go to Settings > Network > Set Up Internet Connection > Use Wi-Fi > Custom. Select your Wi-Fi network and enter your password. On the next screen, select Automatic for IP Address Settings, DHCP Host Name, DNS Settings, and MTU Settings. For Proxy Server, select Do Not Use. Finally, select Enable UPnP and Test Internet Connection. Your PS4 should now be set up for online gaming.

Part 2: Installing the Server Software

The next step in hosting an Ark server on your PS4 is to download and install the server software.

Step 1: Download the Server Software

Visit the Ark Server Manager website (https://arkservermanager.freeforums.net/) and download the server software for PS4.

Step 2: Install the Server Software

Once the server software has finished downloading, extract the files to a folder on your computer. Connect a USB drive to your computer and create a folder called “PS4”. Copy the extracted server software files into this folder.

Step 3: Transfer the Server Software to Your PS4

Insert the USB drive into your PS4 and navigate to Settings > Storage > USB Storage Devices. Select the server software folder and press the Options button on your controller. Select Copy to System Storage and follow the on-screen instructions to transfer the files to your PS4.

Part 3: Configuring Your Server

Now that the server software is installed on your PS4, it’s time to configure your server settings.

Step 1: Start Your Server

On your PS4, launch Ark and select Host/Local. Select Create Procedurally Generated Map and adjust the game settings to your liking. After you’ve made your selections, press the Options button on your controller and select Host Dedicated Server. This will start your server.

Step 2: Configure Your Server Settings

Open the Ark Server Manager software on your computer and select your PS4 from the list of available servers. Click the Configuration tab and enter your server settings. You can adjust things like player count, difficulty level, and taming speed.

Step 3: Save Your Configuration

After you’ve made your server settings, click the Save button at the bottom of the Configuration tab. The Ark Server Manager software will generate a configuration file, which you’ll need to transfer to your PS4.

Step 4: Transfer Your Configuration to Your PS4

Insert your USB drive into your computer and create a folder called “Config”. Copy the generated configuration file into this folder. Insert the USB drive into your PS4 and navigate to Settings > Storage > USB Storage Devices. Select the Config folder and press the Options button on your controller. Select Copy to System Storage and follow the on-screen instructions to transfer the file to your PS4.

Part 4: Running Your Server

Your server is now configured and ready to go! Here are a few tips for running your server smoothly:

Tip 1: Monitor Your Server

Keep an eye on your server’s performance to ensure that it’s running smoothly. Use the Ark Server Manager software to check your server’s status and performance metrics.

Tip 2: Set Rules and Guidelines

Establish clear rules and guidelines for your server to ensure that everyone has a positive gaming experience. Consider setting up a Discord server for communication and moderation.

Tip 3: Have Fun!

Most importantly, have fun! Hosting an Ark server on your PS4 can be a rewarding experience, so enjoy the journey.

Frequently Asked Questions