How to Host ARK Server on PC for Dev

Hey Dev! Are you having trouble finding a reliable guide on hosting ARK Server on your PC? Well, you are in the right place! In this comprehensive guide, we will take you through the process of hosting ARK Server on your PC step by step.

Requirements

Before we begin, there are a few things you need to have in order to set up your ARK Server.

1. ARK Server Manager

You need to download the ARK Server Manager tool from the official website. This tool makes it easier for you to host your server, manage your mods, and configure your server settings.

2. Powerful PC

Hosting an ARK Server requires a lot of resources, so you need to have a powerful PC with a good processor and at least 16GB RAM.

3. Public IP Address

You need a public IP address to host your ARK Server, so make sure your internet service provider provides you with one.

Setting Up the Server

Now that you have all the requirements, let’s get started with setting up your ARK Server.

1. Download ARK Server Manager

The first step is to download the ARK Server Manager tool from the official website. Make sure you download the latest version.

2. Install ARK Server Manager

After downloading, extract the zip file and run the setup.exe file. Follow the on-screen instructions to install the tool on your PC.

3. Configure the Server

Once the installation is complete, open the ARK Server Manager tool from your desktop. Click on the “New” button and configure your server settings, such as server name, password, and map selection.

4. Install Mods

If you want to add mods to your server, click on the “Mods” tab and select the mods you want to install. Make sure you have subscribed to the mods on the Steam Workshop before installing them.

5. Launch the Server

After configuring your server settings and installing mods, click on the “Start” button to launch your ARK Server.

Connecting to Your Server

Now that your server is up and running, let’s see how you can connect to it.

1. Find Your Server IP

To connect to your server, you need to know its IP address. You can find the IP address on your router’s homepage or by using online tools such as “What is my IP”.

2. Connect to Your Server

Open ARK: Survival Evolved on your PC or Xbox and click on “Join ARK”. In the Server Filter, select “Unofficial PC Sessions” and type in your server’s IP address in the “Session Name” field.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I host an ARK Server on my laptop?

Yes, you can host an ARK Server on your laptop, but it is not recommended. Laptops have limited resources, and hosting a server puts a lot of strain on them, which can cause performance issues.

2. Can I host an ARK Server on my home internet connection?

Yes, you can host an ARK Server on your home internet connection, but you need to have a public IP address. Also, hosting a server consumes a lot of bandwidth, so make sure you have an unlimited data plan.

3. How many players can join my server?

The number of players that can join your server depends on your PC’s resources and internet bandwidth. However, it is recommended to limit the number of players to 20 to ensure optimal performance.

4. Can I play on my own ARK Server?

Yes, you can play on your own ARK Server by selecting “Host/Local” in the main menu.

5. Do I need to keep my PC running all the time to host the server?

Yes, you need to keep your PC running all the time to host the server. If you want to turn off the server, you need to stop the server from the ARK Server Manager tool.

Conclusion

Hosting an ARK Server on your PC might seem daunting, but with this guide, you can easily set up your own server and play with your friends. Make sure you have all the requirements and follow the steps carefully to avoid any issues.