How Does Hosting an ARK Server Work?
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Hosting an ARK: Survival Evolved server essentially involves creating a digital space where players can connect and interact within the game world. This space, whether on your personal machine or a dedicated server, dictates the rules, settings, and overall experience for everyone involved. There are two primary methods for hosting an ARK server: non-dedicated and dedicated. The choice between them depends heavily on your desired player count, budget, and technical know-how.
A non-dedicated server is the simpler, more accessible option. This method utilizes your own computer or console as both the server and the client. When you launch the game and select the “Host/Local” option, your machine becomes a temporary server for a limited number of players (typically 3-4 on consoles and potentially more on a PC, though performance will suffer). The caveat is that the server is only active as long as the host player is actively playing, and players are tethered to the host’s location, limiting exploration distance.
In contrast, a dedicated server operates independently of a player’s game client. Think of it as a machine, either physical or virtual, that is solely dedicated to running the server software. This allows the server to be online 24/7, accessible to anyone who has the server’s IP address, and supports a far greater number of players (from tens to hundreds, depending on the server specs). A dedicated server requires the server software to be installed and configured, either on your own machine or on a rented server from a hosting provider. The choice to self-host a dedicated server or rent one depends on your technical expertise and budget, with each offering its own pros and cons. This method is the optimal choice for building larger communities with consistent playtime.
Understanding Non-Dedicated Servers
How They Work
Non-dedicated servers are essentially a “local” option that leverages your own hardware to create a multiplayer game session. When you use this method, the computer or console that’s running the game also hosts the server, meaning you’re both playing the game and managing it as a server at the same time. This is why performance issues can arise, especially with multiple players or complex game environments.
Advantages
- Cost-Effective: The biggest advantage is that you don’t have to pay for separate server hosting. You are using your existing gaming setup.
- Easy to Set Up: Hosting a non-dedicated server is straightforward. You essentially select a “Host/Local” option in the game menu and configure basic settings.
- Good for Local Play: Ideal for playing with friends in the same room or within a very close geographical area, it avoids the latency of playing on a far away dedicated server.
Disadvantages
- Limited Player Count: The number of players is restricted, often limited to 4 on consoles, and slightly more on PCs but performance will suffer with higher player count.
- Tethering: Players are often tethered to the host, meaning they cannot venture too far from the host player’s in-game location. This limits the ability to explore and engage in group activities freely.
- Server Downtime: The server is only active when the host player is playing. If the host quits the game or loses connection, the server is shut down, and players are disconnected.
Delving into Dedicated Servers
How They Work
Dedicated servers are standalone machines or programs running the ARK server software. They are designed solely to host the game, acting as a constant online world accessible via a specific IP address. They run independently of any player’s game, which allows them to be online 24/7. This robust server type demands more resources and usually requires some server management knowledge.
Advantages
- 24/7 Availability: The server runs continuously, meaning players can connect and play anytime they like, even when you’re not online.
- Large Player Capacity: Supports significantly more players than non-dedicated servers, accommodating large communities.
- No Tethering: Players are not restricted by a tether and can explore the entire map freely.
- Customizable: Dedicated servers offer extensive customization options, from game settings and rule sets to mods and plugins.
Disadvantages
- Cost: Hosting a dedicated server often involves a recurring monthly expense, be it renting a server or paying for hardware and internet bandwidth.
- Technical Knowledge Required: Setting up and managing a dedicated server can be technically challenging, requiring knowledge of server administration and network configuration.
- Maintenance: Server maintenance, updates, backups, and troubleshooting are essential and often requires ongoing attention and effort.
The Technical Requirements for ARK Server Hosting
Regardless of the chosen server type, certain technical requirements must be met to run the server smoothly and provide an enjoyable experience. The specific hardware and software demands will depend on the expected player count, settings, and complexity of the game environment.
Minimum Requirements (for small servers and Non-Dedicated)
- RAM: 8 GB or more
- Disk Space: 20 GB minimum, 25-50 GB recommended
- CPU: 2 CPU cores with more than 3.0 GHz
- Operating System: Windows or Linux 64-bit (CentOS Linux is recommended for dedicated servers)
Recommended Requirements (for large dedicated servers)
- RAM: 16 GB or more
- Disk Space: 50 GB or more, an SSD is better
- CPU: 4 or more cores with a high clock speed (3.5 GHz+)
- Operating System: Linux (CentOS or Debian are recommended)
Additional Considerations
- Internet Connection: A stable, high-bandwidth internet connection is crucial, especially for dedicated servers that need to support multiple players.
- Operating System: Windows is easier to set up, but Linux typically provides better performance and stability for dedicated servers.
- Software: The appropriate Ark server software must be downloaded and configured on the server.
- Admin Tools: For dedicated servers, using tools like the Ark Server Manager can greatly ease the server management tasks.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Is it free to host an ARK server?
It depends on what kind of server you’re trying to host. Non-dedicated servers are free because they use your own hardware as both the client and the server. Dedicated servers, however, generally require some expense, whether renting one from a hosting service, or paying for hardware and internet bandwidth if you’re self-hosting.
2. What is the difference between a dedicated and a non-dedicated server?
A non-dedicated server uses your own computer or console to host the game. It is suitable for small groups of players in local play. A dedicated server is a standalone system specifically set up to run the server software and host the game independently of any player. Dedicated servers are better for larger communities.
3. How many players can play on a non-dedicated server?
The player count for non-dedicated servers is limited, typically to 3-4 players on consoles, and slightly more on a PC, although performance can severely suffer if the player count is too high.
4. Can I host an ARK server on my laptop?
Yes, you can host an ARK server on your laptop, especially a non-dedicated one. However, for larger groups using a dedicated server, be sure that your laptop meets the recommended server specifications.
5. Do I need to pay a monthly fee for ARK?
No, ARK: Survival Evolved does not require a monthly subscription fee to play. You buy the game once. However, you may need to pay a monthly fee for a rented dedicated server, if you chose that option.
6. How do I set up a non-dedicated server?
Select “Host/Local” in the main menu of the game. Adjust the settings you want and select “Play Hosted.” Your friends can then join this game as long as you are logged in and playing.
7. How much does it cost to rent a dedicated server?
The cost varies, but the most affordable options can cost around $20 a month for roughly 30 slots, going up to $50 per month or more for more player slots and better server resources.
8. What are the advantages of hosting a dedicated server?
Dedicated servers provide 24/7 availability, support larger player counts, offer customizable settings and a better playing environment, and remove tether limitations found in non-dedicated servers.
9. How do I self-host a dedicated server?
You need to download the ARK server software, configure it, and run it on a machine that meets the minimum server specs. Using the Ark Server Manager can help simplify this process.
10. Is it better to rent or self-host a dedicated server?
Renting is easier for most users because it handles technical setup, but self-hosting provides greater control for tech-savvy users. Renting is also easier to get started with because it requires no specific hardware to have on hand.
11. What are some free ARK server hosting options?
While some services offer free hosting, they often come with limitations like limited player slots, restricted customization and slow performance, so research those options carefully. They can be a good option for testing or for a limited amount of players.
12. What do I need to consider in choosing between Windows and Linux?
Windows is often easier for beginners, but Linux is recommended for standalone dedicated servers for better performance and stability.
13. Do dedicated servers save my progress?
Yes, dedicated servers save player progress. The server has automated save functions, but you can also use admin commands such as “Cheat SaveWorld” to trigger manual saves.
14. What are the minimum server specs to host 10-15 players?
At least 8 GB of RAM, 20 GB of disk space, 2 CPU cores over 3.0 GHz, and a 64-bit OS, are the minimum to host a small server.
15. Will official ARK servers ever be back up?
The official servers for ARK: Survival Evolved were shut down on September 29, 2023. There are no plans for them to come back up, but you can play on private dedicated servers or set up your own game.