How Much Does It Cost to Host Your Own ARK Server? A Comprehensive Guide
The cost of hosting your own ARK: Survival Evolved server can vary wildly depending on your chosen method. It can range from completely free to hundreds of dollars per month. Essentially, the total cost will depend on factors such as the number of players you intend to support, the level of performance you desire, your technical capabilities, and whether you choose to host on your own hardware or rent a server.
Generally speaking, the options break down into three main categories with varying associated costs:
- Free Options: These are typically non-dedicated servers hosted on your own machine or leveraging free trial periods or very limited free hosting services. These can be the most budget-friendly but are often less robust.
- Self-Hosted Dedicated Server: Running the ARK server on your own hardware is the most cost-effective if you have capable hardware but requires technical expertise and incurs electricity and internet costs.
- Rented Dedicated Server: Renting server space from a hosting provider is often the easiest solution for many but comes with a recurring monthly fee, which can range greatly based on server specifications.
Let’s delve into the specifics of each approach to paint a clearer picture.
Exploring the Cost Landscape
Free Options: Non-Dedicated & Limited Trials
The most readily available “free” method is hosting a non-dedicated server. This option leverages your existing computer, where you run the game. This means you don’t incur extra costs beyond your current electricity and internet bills. However, non-dedicated servers have limitations. They tether players to the host’s machine and therefore to the host’s proximity to the game, restricting exploration and causing play restrictions if the host moves too far away.
Furthermore, they are limited by the host’s hardware capabilities and the number of players that can reliably connect, thus offering a low-performing, unreliable play experience compared to the dedicated server options. Some hosting companies offer free trials or highly limited free hosting plans. These options can be useful for testing the waters but usually come with limitations on player slots, performance, and features, and rarely ever provide a reliable game hosting solution.
Self-Hosted Dedicated Server: The Low-Cost Approach with a Catch
If you have spare hardware that meets the minimum requirements to run an ARK server (8GB of RAM, 20-50 GB of disk space, and a CPU with 2+ cores at 3.0 GHz or higher), you can host your own dedicated server. The main advantages of this method are the one-time cost of hardware setup (if you already have the required parts) and freedom from monthly hosting fees. However, you will need to factor in the ongoing costs for electricity and a robust internet connection, especially if you intend to support multiple players.
Additionally, setting up a dedicated server is more complex than the other methods, and requires a solid understanding of command lines and server configuration. You’ll also be responsible for maintaining the server, applying updates, and handling any technical issues that arise. Here are the minimum requirements to consider:
- RAM: 8GB minimum, though more is recommended if you want to run with more players or mods.
- Storage: 20-50GB. The size will be based on the number of mods you want to use and the data that will accumulate overtime.
- CPU: 2 Cores at 3.0GHz or higher, and more if you plan to have more than 10-15 players.
- Internet Connection: A high-speed, stable internet connection with good upload and download speeds.
Rented Dedicated Server: The Premium Experience
Renting a dedicated ARK server from a hosting provider is the easiest but most costly option. Prices vary based on the provider and the specific resources you need. These providers offer a simple way to run an ARK server that eliminates the technical burden that self-hosting requires and also offers high reliability. These plans include 24/7 support and optimized server performance.
The cost can range from $0.40 per slot to upwards of $1-$2 per slot. Prices will go higher depending on the amount of power your server needs. Therefore, a 20-player server might cost anywhere from $8 to $40 per month, while a 70-player server can run $28 to $140 per month. Many hosting providers offer discounts if you commit to paying quarterly, semiannually or annually.
Related Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. What are the minimum system requirements for hosting an ARK server?
As previously mentioned, minimum requirements are: 8GB of RAM, 20-50GB of storage, a CPU with at least 2 cores at 3.0 GHz or higher. However, these requirements increase significantly with the number of players and the usage of mods.
2. Is it cheaper to host an ARK server on my own computer or rent a server?
Generally, if you have the necessary hardware and technical skills, self-hosting is the most economical. However, it can come with an upfront cost to buy a machine capable of running a server and the electricity and high speed internet connection is critical for high performance. For users with less technical knowledge, renting a server is often simpler despite the higher recurring cost.
3. What’s the difference between a dedicated and non-dedicated ARK server?
A dedicated server runs independently of a client-side game instance, providing more robust performance and player counts. A non-dedicated server runs on your game client, and thus is limited by your hardware’s performance and ties other players’ movement to the host.
4. Can I host an ARK server for free?
Yes, you can host a non-dedicated server for free. Alternatively, some companies offer limited free trials for their dedicated server hosting, but this will often be very limited.
5. How much RAM do I need for an ARK server?
8GB of RAM is the minimum. However, for larger servers with multiple players and mods, 16GB, 32GB, or even 64GB of RAM is highly recommended.
6. What CPU should I use for my ARK server?
A CPU with at least 2 cores at 3.0 GHz is needed for 10-15 players. More cores and higher clock speeds are necessary for more players, mods, and better overall performance.
7. Do I need a specific operating system for my ARK server?
Both Windows and Linux can be used to host an ARK server. Linux is generally considered more resource-efficient for server applications.
8. What kind of internet connection do I need to host an ARK server?
A high-speed, stable internet connection with good upload and download speeds is essential. Fiber optic internet is generally optimal for reliability and consistency.
9. Are there any hidden costs when renting an ARK server?
Be sure to examine the terms of service from your hosting provider. Some providers may charge extra for support, backups, or increased bandwidth. Read everything thoroughly before committing to a server.
10. How many players can I host on my own hardware?
This depends on your hardware. A standard system might support 10-15 players reliably, but more will require more advanced equipment. Testing to find optimal balance is always important.
11. Can I use server mods with my ARK server?
Yes, you can use mods on both self-hosted and rented servers. However, mods increase resource usage, so you may need more powerful hardware or a more expensive hosting plan to keep them running smoothly.
12. Is it legal to host my own ARK server?
Yes, if you own a legal copy of the game, you can host an ARK server for personal or private use within the bounds of the game’s terms of service.
13. How difficult is it to set up a dedicated ARK server?
Setting up a dedicated server requires some technical expertise and comfort with command line interfaces. Many tutorials are available online to help with the process.
14. What are the benefits of renting an ARK server?
Renting a server offers ease of use, 24/7 uptime, and technical support from the hosting provider. It eliminates the complexity of self-hosting.
15. Are there discounts for longer-term hosting contracts?
Yes, many hosting providers offer discounted pricing for committing to longer-term contracts (e.g., quarterly, semiannually, or annually). Make sure to compare prices for best value.
Conclusion
The decision of how to host an ARK server often comes down to your technical abilities, budget and time availability. While the free non-dedicated options exist, they come with limited performance and reliability. Self-hosting is the most cost-effective option but requires a commitment to maintaining the server hardware, while the premium rental option is more costly but provides robust servers and removes the burden of server management. By weighing these factors, you’ll be well equipped to select the hosting solution that is best for you and your gaming community.