How to Run a Dedicated Server for Ark – A Comprehensive Guide for Devs

Greetings, Devs! Running a dedicated server for Ark can be a challenging task, but with the right guidance, it can be a rewarding experience. In this article, we will walk you through every step of the process, from setting up your server to troubleshooting common issues. Let’s get started!

Setting Up Your Server

Before you begin, you will need to choose a hosting provider for your server. We recommend using a reputable provider with experience in hosting gaming servers. Once you have selected your provider, follow these steps:

Step 1: Installing SteamCMD

The first step is to install SteamCMD, which is used to download and update the Ark server files. Here’s how:

Once SteamCMD is installed, you can move on to the next step.

Step 2: Downloading and Updating the Ark Server Files

Now it’s time to download and update the Ark server files using SteamCMD. Here’s how:

Once the server files are downloaded and updated, you can move on to the next step.

Step 3: Configuring Your Server

Now it’s time to configure your server settings according to your preferences. Here are some common settings you may want to adjust:

• Max Players
• Taming Speed
• Harvest Amount
• XP Multiplier
• Difficulty Level

You can adjust these settings by editing the “GameUserSettings.ini” file located in the “ShooterGame/Saved/Config/WindowsServer/” directory.

Step 4: Starting Your Server

Finally, it’s time to start your server! Here’s how:

Congratulations, your server is now up and running! Now let’s move on to some common issues you may encounter and how to troubleshoot them.

Common Issues and Troubleshooting

Issue 1: “Failed to Install Mod Map” Error

If you see this error when trying to install a mod map, it may be due to a missing dependency. Here’s how to fix it:

1. Check the mod page for any required dependencies
2. Install the required dependencies using SteamCMD
3. Try installing the mod map again

Issue 2: Server Not Showing Up in Server List

If you can’t find your server in the server list, it may be due to a firewall issue. Here’s how to fix it:

1. Check your server’s firewall settings and make sure port 27015 is open
2. If you are using a hosting provider, contact them to make sure they have opened the port

Issue 3: Lag and Performance Issues

If your server is experiencing lag or performance issues, it may be due to a high number of players or settings that are too demanding for your hardware. Here’s how to fix it:

1. Reduce the number of players on your server
2. Adjust your server settings to be less demanding
3. Upgrade your hardware if necessary

FAQ

Q1: Can I run an Ark server on my own computer?

A: Yes, you can run an Ark server on your own computer, but keep in mind that it may affect your computer’s performance and you may need to adjust your hardware and settings accordingly.

Q2: How many players can I have on my Ark server?

A: The maximum number of players you can have on your Ark server depends on your server settings and hardware. We recommend starting with a smaller number of players and gradually increasing as you monitor your server’s performance.

Q3: Can I install mods on my Ark server?

A: Yes, you can install mods on your Ark server using SteamCMD. Be sure to check the mod page for any required dependencies and adjust your server settings accordingly.

Q4: Can I customize the settings on my Ark server?

A: Yes, you can customize your Ark server settings according to your preferences. Some common settings to adjust include max players, taming speed, harvest amount, XP multiplier, and difficulty level.

Q5: What should I do if my server is experiencing performance issues?

A: If your server is experiencing performance issues, you may need to reduce the number of players, adjust your server settings to be less demanding, or upgrade your hardware if necessary.

That’s it, Devs! We hope this guide has been helpful in getting your Ark server up and running smoothly. If you have any further questions, feel free to reach out to us.