How to Host a Multiplayer Ark Server

Welcome, Dev! Are you looking to create your own multiplayer Ark server? Look no further, because in this journal article, we will guide you through each step on how to host a multiplayer Ark server. This guide will help you create a server for you and your friends to play on, or even build your own community. Let’s get started!

Step 1: System Requirements

Before creating your own Ark server, you need to make sure you have the right system requirements. Hosting a multiplayer Ark server requires a powerful machine since the game is graphics-intensive. The recommended requirements are:

System Requirements	Minimum	Recommended
Operating System	Windows 7/8.1/10 (64-bit versions)	Windows 7/8.1/10 (64-bit versions)
Processor	Intel Core i5-2400/AMD FX-8320 or better	Intel Core i7-4770/AMD FX-8350 or better
Memory	8 GB RAM	16 GB RAM
Graphics	NVIDIA GTX 670 2GB/AMD Radeon HD 7870 2GB or better	NVIDIA GTX 1070 8GB/AMD Radeon RX 580 8GB or better
Storage	60 GB available space	60 GB available space

Make sure your internet connection is stable and fast enough to run the server smoothly. A stable internet connection is necessary for hosting a multiplayer server.

Step 2: Choosing Your Server Hosting Provider

Now that you have the system requirements, it’s time to choose your server hosting provider. There are plenty of hosting providers available, and they offer different packages for different needs. Choose a hosting provider that meets your requirements and budget.

Here are some of the popular Ark server hosting providers:

• HostHavoc
• GTX Gaming
• Nitrado
• Survival Servers

Compare the prices and features of each hosting provider to find the best one for you. Make sure the hosting provider has good customer support and a user-friendly control panel.

Step 3: Creating Your Ark Server

Once you have chosen your hosting provider, it’s time to create your Ark server. Follow these steps:

1. Log in to your hosting provider’s website and select “Ark” as your game server.
2. Choose the location of your server, which should be the closest to your audience.
3. Select the number of player slots and configure the server settings.
4. Choose the mods you want to include in your server.
5. Click “Create Server” and wait for the server to be created.

Once the server is created, you will receive an email with the server details and login credentials. You can then connect to your server using the game client.

Step 4: Configuring Your Ark Server

After creating your Ark server, it’s time to configure it according to your preferences. Here are some of the server settings you can configure:

• Server name
• Difficulty level
• Taming speed
• Harvesting rate
• Experience multiplier

You can also add mods to your server, which can enhance gameplay and add new features. Popular mods include:

• Structures Plus (S+)
• Ark Automated
• Castles, Keeps, and Forts (CKF)
• Ark Customizer

Make sure to save your settings before closing the configuration window. You can always go back and change the settings later if needed.

Step 5: Managing Your Ark Server

Managing your Ark server is crucial to keep it running smoothly and reduce the risk of downtime. Here are some tips on managing your server:

• Regularly update your server to the latest version of Ark.
• Keep track of the server logs to identify and fix issues.
• Monitor the server performance to ensure it’s running smoothly.
• Enforce the rules to prevent cheating and ensure a fair gameplay.

Make sure to communicate with your players and address their concerns. A good server owner listens to their players and makes sure they have a good experience.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. How many players can join my Ark server?

The number of players that can join your Ark server depends on the hosting provider and server package you choose. Most hosting providers offer packages with a maximum of 100 players. However, it’s recommended to start with a lower number of slots and increase it later if needed.

2. Can I add mods to my Ark server?

Yes, you can add mods to your Ark server to enhance gameplay and add new features. Most hosting providers have a user-friendly control panel that allows you to easily add and manage mods.

3. Can I change the server settings after creating the server?

Yes, you can change the server settings anytime through the server configuration window. Make sure to save the settings before closing the window.

4. Can I transfer my single-player game progress to my Ark server?

Yes, you can transfer your single-player game progress to your Ark server. Follow these steps:

1. Open your single-player game and type “open servername” in the console command.
2. Create a new character and log into the server.
3. Press “Tab” to open the console command and type “saveworld”.
4. Exit the single-player game and go to the server control panel.
5. Click “FTP File Access” and navigate to the “SavedArks” folder.
6. Upload the files from your single-player game to the server’s “SavedArks” folder.
7. Restart the server and log in to see your progress.

5. Can I password-protect my Ark server?

Yes, you can password-protect your Ark server to prevent unauthorized access. Follow these steps:

1. Go to the server configuration window and click “Show Advanced Options”.
2. Set a password in the “Server Admin Password” field.
3. Save the settings and restart the server.
4. Only players with the password can join the server.

That’s it, Dev! Now that you know how to host a multiplayer Ark server, you can create your own community and enjoy the game with your friends. Remember to have fun and be a good server owner!