How to Host a Server for ARK: A Beginner’s Guide

Welcome, Dev, to this beginner’s guide on how to host a server for ARK. ARK: Survival Evolved is a popular survival game where players must survive in a world filled with dinosaurs and other prehistoric creatures. It’s an exciting game that can be played alone or with friends, but hosting a server can enhance the experience. Whether you’re new to hosting servers or an experienced player looking to improve your skills, this guide is for you.

Choosing a Hosting Provider

Before hosting a server, you’ll need to choose a hosting provider. There are many options available, including dedicated servers, virtual private servers, and cloud hosting. Each option has its own advantages and disadvantages, so it’s important to do your research before making a decision.

If you’re just starting out, a virtual private server (VPS) or a cloud hosting solution may be the best choice. They are affordable and easy to set up, making them a great option for beginners. However, if you plan on hosting a large number of players or want more control over the server, you may want to consider a dedicated server.

When choosing a hosting provider, look for one with a good reputation and reliable customer support. It’s also important to consider the location of the server, as this can affect the latency and overall performance of the game.

Setting Up a VPS

If you choose to host your server on a VPS, the first step is to choose a provider and sign up for a plan. Once you’ve done this, you’ll need to set up the server software and configure it for ARK.

The first thing you’ll need to do is install the operating system on your VPS. This can usually be done through the provider’s control panel or via SSH. Once the operating system is installed, you can install the necessary server software, such as SteamCMD and ARK Server Manager.

Once the software is installed, you’ll need to configure the server settings. This includes setting the server name, password, and default game mode. You’ll also need to adjust other settings, such as player and dinosaur spawn rates, to ensure a balanced and enjoyable gameplay experience.

After configuring the server settings, you can start the server and invite your friends to join. If you encounter any issues, most VPS providers offer support to help you resolve them.

Setting Up Cloud Hosting

Setting up a cloud hosting solution is similar to setting up a VPS, but with a few key differences. With cloud hosting, you can choose between different server options, such as CPU, RAM, and storage space.

The first step is to sign up for a cloud hosting account and choose your server specifications. Once your server is set up, you can install the necessary server software, such as SteamCMD and ARK Server Manager.

After the software is installed, you’ll need to configure the server settings as you would with a VPS. Once configured, you can start the server and invite your friends to join.

Setting Up a Dedicated Server

If you choose to host your server on a dedicated server, you’ll have more control over the hardware and software. However, setting up a dedicated server requires more technical expertise and can be more expensive.

The first step is to choose a provider and purchase a dedicated server. Once you have access to the server, you’ll need to install the operating system and any necessary server software.

After the software is installed, you can configure the server settings and start the server. It’s important to optimize the server settings for performance and ensure that the server is secure to prevent hacking attempts.

Optimizing Server Performance

After setting up your server, you’ll want to optimize its performance to provide the best possible gameplay experience for your players.

Adjusting Server Settings

One of the most important things you can do to optimize performance is to adjust the server settings. This includes adjusting player and dinosaur spawn rates, disabling or limiting certain items, and adjusting the game difficulty. These settings can have a significant impact on server performance, so it’s important to find the right balance.

Installing Mods

Installing mods can enhance the gameplay experience and add new content to the game. However, it’s important to be careful when installing mods, as they can also negatively impact server performance if not installed correctly.

Before installing mods, make sure that they are compatible with your server software and that they are well-reviewed by other players. You should also test the mods on a separate server before installing them on your main server.

Monitoring Server Performance

Monitoring server performance is crucial to identifying and fixing issues before they impact gameplay. You can monitor server performance through server log files and third-party monitoring tools.

If you notice any performance issues, such as lag or crashes, it’s important to troubleshoot the issue as soon as possible. This can involve adjusting server settings, upgrading hardware, or contacting your hosting provider for support.

FAQ

Hosting a server for ARK can be a rewarding experience that enhances the gameplay for you and your friends. By choosing the right hosting provider, optimizing server performance, and troubleshooting any issues that arise, you can create a memorable gaming experience. Good luck!