Table of Contents

Does Running a Dedicated ARK Server Cost Money? A Deep Dive

Yes, running a dedicated ARK: Survival Evolved server typically costs money. While the ARK game client itself might be a one-time purchase (or even free during promotional periods), maintaining a server that’s always online, available to your friends (or the public), and capable of handling the resource-intensive demands of the game requires ongoing investment. This investment primarily breaks down into two categories: server hosting fees and hardware/infrastructure costs (if you choose to host it yourself). Understanding these costs, exploring free alternatives (and their limitations), and knowing the prerequisites will help you make an informed decision about running your own ARK server.

Understanding the Costs Associated with ARK Server Hosting

The most common way to run a dedicated ARK server is through a third-party hosting provider. These providers specialize in renting out server space and resources, taking care of the technical aspects of server management for you. The costs associated with these services vary considerably based on several factors:

Number of Player Slots: This is the most direct driver of cost. More slots mean more resources required to handle the simultaneous connections and in-game activity. Expect to pay more for a server capable of hosting 50 players than one designed for 10.
Server Hardware: The underlying hardware of the server greatly influences performance. Servers with powerful CPUs (measured in GHz), ample RAM (measured in GB), and fast storage (SSD or NVMe) will generally offer better performance and stability, translating to smoother gameplay and fewer lag spikes. These premium hardware configurations come at a higher price.
Location: Server location impacts latency (ping). Choosing a server location geographically close to your player base is crucial for a good gaming experience. Some providers charge more for servers in specific locations (e.g., Europe, North America, Asia).
Features and Support: Hosting providers often offer a range of features and support options. These can include DDoS protection, automated backups, custom mod installation, user-friendly control panels, and 24/7 technical support. A more comprehensive feature set and higher-quality support usually come with a higher price tag.
Subscription Length: Many providers offer discounts for longer subscription periods. Paying for a year upfront may be cheaper than paying monthly.
Type of Plan: Hosting providers will have different tiers, such as basic, standard and premium. Typically, the price increases along with more features and hardware specifications.

Generally, renting an ARK server will cost you between $15 and $30 per month for a basic setup. Premium plans with more features and better hardware can easily exceed this range.

The “Free” ARK Server Hosting Myth

You might encounter providers offering “free” ARK server hosting. While these offers may sound tempting, it’s crucial to understand the limitations and potential downsides:

Limited Resources: Free servers typically come with severely restricted resources. This means fewer player slots, slower performance, limited storage, and potentially unstable uptime.
Advertising and Upselling: Free providers often rely on advertising to generate revenue, which can be disruptive to gameplay. They may also aggressively upsell you to paid plans with better performance and features.
Data Security and Privacy: The security and privacy of your server data may be compromised with free providers. They might not have the same security measures as paid providers, making your server vulnerable to attacks.
Unreliable Uptime: Free servers are often subject to frequent downtime and maintenance, which can be frustrating for players.

While ScalaCube is mentioned as offering “free ARK server hosting” with “unlimited plugins and traffic,” the actual performance and reliability of such a service should be carefully evaluated. “Unlimited” claims often have hidden restrictions or come at the expense of overall server quality. It is always essential to read the fine print and user reviews before committing to a free hosting option.

Hosting Your Own ARK Server: Hardware Requirements and Costs

The alternative to renting is hosting the server yourself. This gives you maximum control over the server environment but requires technical expertise and significant upfront investment.

Here are the basic hardware requirements:

Processor: A dual-core processor with over 3 GHz is the minimum, but a quad-core or higher processor is recommended for better performance, especially with more players.
RAM: 6 to 8 GB of RAM is the absolute minimum, but 16 GB or more is highly recommended, especially if you plan to install mods.
Storage: 10 to 15 GB of hard drive space is required for the base game, but you’ll need more space for mods and server backups. An SSD or NVMe drive is strongly recommended for faster load times and overall performance.
Internet Connection: A high-speed broadband internet connection with a stable upload speed is essential. A minimum of 10 Mbps upload speed is recommended, but more is better, especially with multiple players.
Operating System: Windows or Linux can be used. Windows is easier to set up, but Linux is more resource-efficient.

Beyond the hardware costs, you also need to consider the electricity costs of running the server 24/7 and the time and effort required to maintain it. You must maintain the server, and you must also pay for your own server. This is an expense that you may or may not be ready to have.

Server Management and Maintenance

Regardless of whether you rent or host your own server, ongoing management and maintenance are required. This includes:

Installing and Updating the Game Server: Keeping the server software up-to-date is crucial for security and stability.
Configuring Server Settings: Adjusting server settings to your liking, such as difficulty, resource spawn rates, and player rules.
Installing and Managing Mods: Mods can significantly enhance the ARK experience, but they require careful management to ensure compatibility and stability.
Monitoring Server Performance: Monitoring server performance to identify and resolve issues such as lag spikes and crashes.
Backing Up Server Data: Regularly backing up server data to prevent data loss in case of hardware failure or other issues.
Security: Maintaining server security is important to keep the game safe.

Conclusion: Weighing the Costs and Benefits

Running a dedicated ARK server involves costs, whether you choose to rent or host it yourself. Free options exist, but they often come with significant limitations. Before starting a server, carefully consider your budget, technical expertise, and desired level of control.

If you’re looking for a hassle-free experience with reliable performance, renting a server from a reputable hosting provider is the best option. If you’re technically proficient and want maximum control, hosting your own server is feasible, but be prepared for the upfront investment and ongoing maintenance. Understanding the costs and trade-offs involved will ensure you make the best decision for your needs and create a fun and engaging ARK experience for yourself and your friends. Also, if you are interested in learning more about the gaming industry, you can look into resources such as the Games Learning Society. You can also find more information about them at GamesLearningSociety.org.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About ARK Server Hosting Costs

Here are 15 frequently asked questions to further clarify the costs and considerations involved in running a dedicated ARK server:

1. Is ARK: Survival Ascended free to play?

No, ARK: Survival Ascended is not a free upgrade. It is sold separately and costs $59.99. It is important to keep in mind that the cost will be $50 as a bundle with the sequel that will be launched later on.

2. Can I run an ARK server on my home computer?

Yes, you can, but it’s not recommended for long-term use or for a large number of players. Running a server on your home computer will consume significant resources, potentially impacting your gaming experience.

3. How much RAM do I really need for an ARK server?

8GB is a bare minimum, but 16GB is highly recommended, especially if you plan to use mods or have more than a few players. More RAM directly translates to smoother performance and fewer crashes.

4. Do I need a static IP address to host an ARK server?

While not strictly required, a static IP address makes it easier for your friends to connect to your server. Dynamic IP addresses can change, requiring you to update the server address frequently.

5. What’s the difference between a dedicated and non-dedicated server?

A dedicated server is a separate machine solely dedicated to hosting the game, providing better performance and stability. A non-dedicated server runs on the same machine as the game client, limiting its performance and range.

6. What are the advantages of using a dedicated server?

Dedicated servers offer superior performance, stability, customization options, and the ability to handle more players. They run 24/7, providing a consistent gaming experience.

7. How do I invite my friends to play on my dedicated server?

You provide them with the server name or IP address, and they can join through the in-game server browser. If hosting locally on PC, you can invite them directly via Steam.

8. What happens when official ARK servers shut down?

When official servers shut down, your progress and characters on those servers are lost. Hosting your own dedicated server is a way to preserve your game data and continue playing with your friends.

9. What’s the difference between renting a server and using a Gaming VPS?

Renting an ARK server from a hosting provider is generally easier to set up and manage. A Gaming VPS gives you more control over the server environment but requires more technical expertise to configure.

10. How much does it cost to run a modded ARK server?

The cost depends on the number and complexity of the mods. More mods require more RAM and processing power, potentially increasing server hosting costs.

11. Are there any hidden costs associated with ARK server hosting?

Some providers may charge extra for DDoS protection, backups, or premium support. Always read the fine print and understand the full cost before committing to a hosting plan.

12. What’s the best operating system for an ARK server?

Both Windows and Linux are viable options. Windows is easier to set up, but Linux is more resource-efficient, especially for servers with limited resources.

13. How often should I back up my ARK server data?

Regular backups are crucial to prevent data loss. Backing up your server data daily or even more frequently is recommended, especially if you make frequent changes.

14. What is server maintenance?

Server maintenance includes updating the game server, installing and managing mods, monitoring server performance, backing up server data, and ensuring server security.

15. How do I choose the right ARK server hosting provider?

Consider factors such as server hardware, location, features, support, price, and user reviews. Look for a provider with a good reputation and a track record of reliable performance.

Does it cost money to run a dedicated server in ARK?