How to Host an Ark Server and Play

Hello Dev, if you’re looking to host an Ark server and play with your friends, look no further. In this article, we’ll guide you through the process step-by-step to ensure that you can get your server up and running as quickly and efficiently as possible.

Section 1: Preparations

Before we dive into the technical aspects of hosting an Ark server, there are a few preparations you need to make. First, decide on the type of server you want to run. There are two main types of servers you can choose from:

Type 1: Non-Dedicated Server

A non-dedicated server allows you to host a small server for you and your friends to play on. However, there are a few limitations to this type of server. For one, the host player must be online for others to play. Secondly, the maximum number of players allowed is only 8.

Type 2: Dedicated Server

A dedicated server, on the other hand, allows you to host a larger server that can support more players. This type of server runs 24/7 and allows players to join even if the host isn’t online. However, dedicated servers can be more complicated to set up, and requires a more powerful computer.

Choosing the Right Hardware

Now that you’ve decided on the type of server you want to host, it’s time to choose the right hardware. Depending on the type of server you’re running, you’ll need different hardware requirements.

Make sure your computer meets the hardware requirements before proceeding to the next step.

Section 2: Setting Up Your Server

Now that you’ve chosen the type of server you want to host and made sure your computer meets the hardware requirements, it’s time to set up your server.

Step 1: Downloading the Server Files

The first step is to download the Ark server files. You can do this by following these steps:

1. Go to the steamcmd website and download the SteamCMD installer.
2. Create a new folder on your hard drive to store the server files.
3. Run the SteamCMD installer and login with your Steam account.
4. Enter the following command to download the Ark server files:
   force_install_dir [path to server folder]\steamapps\common\ARK Survival Evolved Dedicated Server\
app_update 376030 validate

Step 2: Configuring Your Server

Now that you’ve downloaded the server files, it’s time to configure your server. The server configuration file is located in the following directory:
[path to server folder]\steamapps\common\ARK Survival Evolved Dedicated Server\ShooterGame\Saved\Config\WindowsServer\

Open the file named ‘GameUserSettings.ini’ with a text editor and make the following changes:

1. Change the server name by editing the ‘ServerName’ field.
2. Set the number of players by editing the ‘MaxPlayers’ field.
3. Set the server password by editing the ‘ServerPassword’ field.
4. Set the server port by editing the ‘Port’ field.

Save the changes and close the file.

Step 3: Starting Your Server

Now that you’ve configured your server, it’s time to start it up. To do this, follow these steps:

1. Navigate to the following directory:
   [path to server folder]\steamapps\common\ARK Survival Evolved Dedicated Server\
2. Run the following command:
   ShooterGameServer.exe TheIsland?SessionName=MySession?listen?ServerPassword=MyPassword?MaxPlayers=8
3. Make sure to replace ‘MySession’, ‘MyPassword’, and ‘8’ with your own server name, password, and number of players.

Section 3: Playing on Your Server

Now that you’ve set up your server, it’s time to start playing on it. To join your server, follow these steps:

Step 1: Add Your Server to Your Favorites

Open Ark and go to the server browser. Find your server and click on it. Click on the ‘Add to Favorites’ button to add it to your favorites list.

Step 2: Join Your Server

Click on the ‘Favorites’ tab and select your server from the list. Click on the ‘Join’ button to join your server.

Section 4: Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can I host a server on my own computer?

A: Yes, you can. However, make sure your computer meets the hardware requirements and that you don’t use it for other tasks while hosting the server.

Q: How do I update my server?

A: To update your server, simply run the SteamCMD installer and enter the following command:
app_update 376030 validate

Q: Can I transfer my character to my own server?

A: Yes, you can. However, make sure to backup your character data before transferring it to your server.

Q: Can I add mods to my server?

A: Yes, you can. However, make sure to follow the mod installation instructions carefully and that all players have the same mods installed.

Q: How do I change the server settings?

A: Open the ‘GameUserSettings.ini’ file located in the following directory:
[path to server folder]\steamapps\common\ARK Survival Evolved Dedicated Server\ShooterGame\Saved\Config\WindowsServer\

Conclusion

Hosting an Ark server can be a fun and rewarding experience. With the right hardware and a little bit of technical know-how, you can create a server that you and your friends can enjoy for hours on end. We hope that this guide has been helpful and that you’re now ready to take on the challenge of hosting your own Ark server.