{"id":22152,"date":"2025-02-26T09:40:43","date_gmt":"2025-02-26T09:40:43","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.gameslearningsociety.org\/wiki\/?p=22152"},"modified":"2025-02-26T09:40:43","modified_gmt":"2025-02-26T09:40:43","slug":"what-does-it-take-to-host-an-ark-server","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.gameslearningsociety.org\/wiki\/what-does-it-take-to-host-an-ark-server\/","title":{"rendered":"What does it take to host an ARK server?"},"content":{"rendered":"<div id=\"ez-toc-container\" class=\"ez-toc-v2_0_67_1 counter-hierarchy ez-toc-counter ez-toc-grey ez-toc-container-direction\">\n<div class=\"ez-toc-title-container\">\n<p class=\"ez-toc-title \" >Table of Contents<\/p>\n<span class=\"ez-toc-title-toggle\"><a href=\"#\" class=\"ez-toc-pull-right ez-toc-btn ez-toc-btn-xs ez-toc-btn-default ez-toc-toggle\" aria-label=\"Toggle Table of Content\"><span class=\"ez-toc-js-icon-con\"><span class=\"\"><span class=\"eztoc-hide\" style=\"display:none;\">Toggle<\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-icon-toggle-span\"><svg style=\"fill: #999;color:#999\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" class=\"list-377408\" width=\"20px\" height=\"20px\" viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" fill=\"none\"><path d=\"M6 6H4v2h2V6zm14 0H8v2h12V6zM4 11h2v2H4v-2zm16 0H8v2h12v-2zM4 16h2v2H4v-2zm16 0H8v2h12v-2z\" fill=\"currentColor\"><\/path><\/svg><svg style=\"fill: #999;color:#999\" class=\"arrow-unsorted-368013\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" width=\"10px\" height=\"10px\" viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" version=\"1.2\" baseProfile=\"tiny\"><path d=\"M18.2 9.3l-6.2-6.3-6.2 6.3c-.2.2-.3.4-.3.7s.1.5.3.7c.2.2.4.3.7.3h11c.3 0 .5-.1.7-.3.2-.2.3-.5.3-.7s-.1-.5-.3-.7zM5.8 14.7l6.2 6.3 6.2-6.3c.2-.2.3-.5.3-.7s-.1-.5-.3-.7c-.2-.2-.4-.3-.7-.3h-11c-.3 0-.5.1-.7.3-.2.2-.3.5-.3.7s.1.5.3.7z\"\/><\/svg><\/span><\/span><\/span><\/a><\/span><\/div>\n<nav><ul class='ez-toc-list ez-toc-list-level-1 ' ><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-1'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-1\" href=\"https:\/\/www.gameslearningsociety.org\/wiki\/what-does-it-take-to-host-an-ark-server\/#What_Does_It_Take_to_Host_an_ARK_Server\" title=\"What Does It Take to Host an ARK Server?\">What Does It Take to Host an ARK Server?<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-2' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-2\" href=\"https:\/\/www.gameslearningsociety.org\/wiki\/what-does-it-take-to-host-an-ark-server\/#Understanding_the_Basics_Dedicated_vs_Non-Dedicated_Servers\" title=\"Understanding the Basics: Dedicated vs. Non-Dedicated Servers\">Understanding the Basics: Dedicated vs. Non-Dedicated Servers<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-3\" href=\"https:\/\/www.gameslearningsociety.org\/wiki\/what-does-it-take-to-host-an-ark-server\/#Essential_Hardware_Requirements\" title=\"Essential Hardware Requirements\">Essential Hardware Requirements<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-4\" href=\"https:\/\/www.gameslearningsociety.org\/wiki\/what-does-it-take-to-host-an-ark-server\/#Operating_System_and_Software\" title=\"Operating System and Software\">Operating System and Software<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-5\" href=\"https:\/\/www.gameslearningsociety.org\/wiki\/what-does-it-take-to-host-an-ark-server\/#Hosting_Your_Own_vs_Renting_a_Server\" title=\"Hosting Your Own vs. Renting a Server\">Hosting Your Own vs. Renting a Server<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-6\" href=\"https:\/\/www.gameslearningsociety.org\/wiki\/what-does-it-take-to-host-an-ark-server\/#Ongoing_Maintenance_and_Management\" title=\"Ongoing Maintenance and Management\">Ongoing Maintenance and Management<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-7\" href=\"https:\/\/www.gameslearningsociety.org\/wiki\/what-does-it-take-to-host-an-ark-server\/#Frequently_Asked_Questions_FAQs\" title=\"Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)\">Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-3' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-8\" href=\"https:\/\/www.gameslearningsociety.org\/wiki\/what-does-it-take-to-host-an-ark-server\/#1_How_much_RAM_do_I_need_for_an_ARK_server\" title=\"1. How much RAM do I need for an ARK server?\">1. How much RAM do I need for an ARK server?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-9\" href=\"https:\/\/www.gameslearningsociety.org\/wiki\/what-does-it-take-to-host-an-ark-server\/#2_Can_I_host_an_ARK_server_on_my_laptop\" title=\"2. Can I host an ARK server on my laptop?\">2. Can I host an ARK server on my laptop?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-10\" href=\"https:\/\/www.gameslearningsociety.org\/wiki\/what-does-it-take-to-host-an-ark-server\/#3_Is_it_better_to_use_a_dedicated_server_or_non-dedicated\" title=\"3.  Is it better to use a dedicated server or non-dedicated?\">3.  Is it better to use a dedicated server or non-dedicated?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-11\" href=\"https:\/\/www.gameslearningsociety.org\/wiki\/what-does-it-take-to-host-an-ark-server\/#4_Can_you_host_an_ARK_server_for_free\" title=\"4. Can you host an ARK server for free?\">4. Can you host an ARK server for free?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-12\" href=\"https:\/\/www.gameslearningsociety.org\/wiki\/what-does-it-take-to-host-an-ark-server\/#5_What_is_the_typical_cost_for_renting_an_ARK_server\" title=\"5. What is the typical cost for renting an ARK server?\">5. What is the typical cost for renting an ARK server?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-13\" href=\"https:\/\/www.gameslearningsociety.org\/wiki\/what-does-it-take-to-host-an-ark-server\/#6_What_are_the_minimum_CPU_requirements_for_an_ARK_server\" title=\"6. What are the minimum CPU requirements for an ARK server?\">6. What are the minimum CPU requirements for an ARK server?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-14\" href=\"https:\/\/www.gameslearningsociety.org\/wiki\/what-does-it-take-to-host-an-ark-server\/#7_What_is_the_best_operating_system_for_an_ARK_server\" title=\"7. What is the best operating system for an ARK server?\">7. What is the best operating system for an ARK server?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-15\" href=\"https:\/\/www.gameslearningsociety.org\/wiki\/what-does-it-take-to-host-an-ark-server\/#8_What_is_port_forwarding_and_why_is_it_needed\" title=\"8. What is port forwarding, and why is it needed?\">8. What is port forwarding, and why is it needed?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-16\" href=\"https:\/\/www.gameslearningsociety.org\/wiki\/what-does-it-take-to-host-an-ark-server\/#9_What_is_the_Ark_Server_Manager\" title=\"9. What is the Ark Server Manager?\">9. What is the Ark Server Manager?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-17\" href=\"https:\/\/www.gameslearningsociety.org\/wiki\/what-does-it-take-to-host-an-ark-server\/#10_How_many_players_can_play_on_a_non-dedicated_ARK_server\" title=\"10. How many players can play on a non-dedicated ARK server?\">10. How many players can play on a non-dedicated ARK server?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-18\" href=\"https:\/\/www.gameslearningsociety.org\/wiki\/what-does-it-take-to-host-an-ark-server\/#11_How_do_I_update_my_ARK_server\" title=\"11. How do I update my ARK server?\">11. How do I update my ARK server?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-19\" href=\"https:\/\/www.gameslearningsociety.org\/wiki\/what-does-it-take-to-host-an-ark-server\/#12_What_are_some_common_issues_when_setting_up_an_ARK_server\" title=\"12. What are some common issues when setting up an ARK server?\">12. What are some common issues when setting up an ARK server?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-20\" href=\"https:\/\/www.gameslearningsociety.org\/wiki\/what-does-it-take-to-host-an-ark-server\/#13_Can_I_use_mods_on_my_ARK_server\" title=\"13. Can I use mods on my ARK server?\">13. Can I use mods on my ARK server?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-21\" href=\"https:\/\/www.gameslearningsociety.org\/wiki\/what-does-it-take-to-host-an-ark-server\/#14_What_happens_when_you_host_a_non-dedicated_server_ARK\" title=\"14. What happens when you host a non-dedicated server ARK?\">14. What happens when you host a non-dedicated server ARK?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-22\" href=\"https:\/\/www.gameslearningsociety.org\/wiki\/what-does-it-take-to-host-an-ark-server\/#15_What_are_some_advantages_and_disadvantages_of_dedicated_vs_non-dedicated_servers\" title=\"15. What are some advantages and disadvantages of dedicated vs. non-dedicated servers?\">15. What are some advantages and disadvantages of dedicated vs. non-dedicated servers?<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><\/ul><\/li><\/ul><\/nav><\/div>\n<h1><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"What_Does_It_Take_to_Host_an_ARK_Server\"><\/span>What Does It Take to Host an ARK Server?<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h1>\n<p>Hosting your own <strong>ARK: Survival Evolved<\/strong> server can unlock a whole new level of gaming experience, allowing you and your friends to explore the prehistoric world with customized rules and settings. But what exactly does it take to bring your own ARK server to life? In short, hosting an ARK server requires a combination of <strong>sufficient hardware<\/strong>, a <strong>suitable operating system<\/strong>, the <strong>correct software<\/strong>, and a <strong>basic understanding of networking<\/strong>. This involves understanding your choices between a <strong>dedicated<\/strong> or <strong>non-dedicated server<\/strong>, and considerations of cost, performance, and maintenance. Let&#8217;s break down these crucial elements.<\/p>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Understanding_the_Basics_Dedicated_vs_Non-Dedicated_Servers\"><\/span>Understanding the Basics: Dedicated vs. Non-Dedicated Servers<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p>Before we delve into the specifics, it&#8217;s crucial to understand the two primary types of ARK servers:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>\n<p><strong>Non-Dedicated Servers:<\/strong> These are hosted on the same machine that&#8217;s running the game client. They are easy to set up, with the option to &#8220;Host Non-Dedicated Server&#8221; readily available within the game. This type of server is perfect for smaller groups of friends playing together <strong>locally<\/strong>; however, it is limited by player proximity to the host and is only active while the host is playing. It also places significant strain on the host&#8217;s system, as it simultaneously runs the game and the server.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li>\n<p><strong>Dedicated Servers:<\/strong> These are hosted on a separate machine or virtual instance, acting solely as a server. They run <strong>24\/7<\/strong>, offering a <strong>consistent and reliable<\/strong> gaming environment for players regardless of the host&#8217;s online status. Setting up a dedicated server requires a more technical approach but provides the best experience for larger player counts and global connections.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Essential_Hardware_Requirements\"><\/span>Essential Hardware Requirements<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p>Whether you opt for dedicated or non-dedicated, the hardware of your hosting machine will determine the performance and stability of your ARK server. Here&#8217;s what you&#8217;ll generally need:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li><strong>RAM (Random Access Memory):<\/strong> This is one of the most crucial components. At a minimum, the server requires <strong>6GB of RAM to start<\/strong>, but <strong>8GB is strongly recommended<\/strong>. As more players connect and mods are added, your RAM usage will increase. Consider 16 GB or more for larger servers with lots of players and customizations.<\/li>\n<li><strong>CPU (Central Processing Unit):<\/strong> A decent CPU is required to handle the server&#8217;s calculations. For a small server with 10 to 15 players, you should aim for a <strong>CPU with 2 cores and a clock speed of at least 3.0 GHz<\/strong>. For more players or mods, a more powerful CPU is necessary.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Disk Space:<\/strong> You&#8217;ll need a minimum of <strong>20GB of disk space<\/strong> to store the game files and server data. However, it&#8217;s recommended to allocate between <strong>25 and 50 GB<\/strong> for future updates and expansions. Using an <strong>SSD (Solid State Drive)<\/strong> will dramatically improve server load times.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Internet Connection:<\/strong> A stable and fast internet connection with good upload speeds is critical for players to connect without lag. Cable or fiber connections are generally preferred to DSL or satellite.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Operating_System_and_Software\"><\/span>Operating System and Software<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p>Here are the key software elements:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li><strong>Operating System (OS):<\/strong> ARK servers can be hosted on either <strong>Windows or Linux 64-bit operating systems<\/strong>. While Windows is more common, <strong>CentOS Linux is recommended<\/strong> for standalone servers due to its stability and resources efficiency.<\/li>\n<li><strong>ARK Server Software:<\/strong> You will need to install the specific dedicated server software for <strong>ARK: Survival Evolved<\/strong>. This can be downloaded from SteamCMD or through the use of a third-party tool like <strong>Ark Server Manager<\/strong>.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Port Forwarding:<\/strong>  If hosting on your own network, you&#8217;ll need to set up <strong>port forwarding<\/strong> on your router to direct incoming traffic to your server. This typically involves forwarding the default ARK ports (usually 7777, 7778, and 27015).<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Hosting_Your_Own_vs_Renting_a_Server\"><\/span>Hosting Your Own vs. Renting a Server<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p>You have two primary avenues for hosting an ARK server:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li><strong>Self-Hosting:<\/strong> This means setting up the server on your own hardware and network. It is usually more cost-effective in the long run, but requires greater technical knowledge and ongoing maintenance.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Renting a Server:<\/strong> Numerous companies offer <strong>ARK server hosting services<\/strong> for a monthly fee (usually between <strong>$15 and $30<\/strong>). Renting a server is more straightforward as you don\u2019t have to set up and maintain the hardware and network connections. These hosting companies also often provide support to help with the server setup and ongoing operations.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Ongoing_Maintenance_and_Management\"><\/span>Ongoing Maintenance and Management<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p>After your server is up and running, ongoing maintenance is necessary for smooth operation:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li><strong>Regular Updates:<\/strong> Ensure that both the server software and game files are regularly updated to the latest version to benefit from new features and fixes.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Backup:<\/strong> Set up an automated backup system to protect your server data in case of any unforeseen issues.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Monitoring:<\/strong> Monitor the server performance, especially CPU, RAM, and disk usage, to ensure smooth operation and make necessary adjustments to resources and settings.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Mod Management:<\/strong> If using mods, ensure they are updated to prevent crashes and conflicts.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Frequently_Asked_Questions_FAQs\"><\/span>Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"1_How_much_RAM_do_I_need_for_an_ARK_server\"><\/span>1. How much RAM do I need for an ARK server?<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p>You should have <strong>at least 8 GB of RAM<\/strong> for a basic ARK server. A server with a few mods and players may require 16GB or more for better performance.<\/p>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"2_Can_I_host_an_ARK_server_on_my_laptop\"><\/span>2. Can I host an ARK server on my laptop?<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<pre><code>Yes, you can host an ARK server on your laptop if it meets the **minimum hardware requirements**, but this setup is more suited for smaller, local non-dedicated servers as running the game client and server simultaneously can affect performance.\n<\/code><\/pre>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"3_Is_it_better_to_use_a_dedicated_server_or_non-dedicated\"><\/span>3.  Is it better to use a dedicated server or non-dedicated?<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p>A <strong>dedicated server<\/strong> is better for larger groups of players or those playing from different locations, while <strong>non-dedicated servers<\/strong> are better suited for local play with a few close friends due to the proximity limitations of the server.<\/p>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"4_Can_you_host_an_ARK_server_for_free\"><\/span>4. Can you host an ARK server for free?<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p>Yes, some companies offer <strong>free ARK server hosting services<\/strong> but these often come with limitations. You can also technically host it on your own machine for \u201cfree\u201d if you already have the equipment.<\/p>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"5_What_is_the_typical_cost_for_renting_an_ARK_server\"><\/span>5. What is the typical cost for renting an ARK server?<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<pre><code>Renting an ARK server typically costs between **$15 and $30 per month**, but the price can vary depending on the provider and server specifications.\n<\/code><\/pre>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"6_What_are_the_minimum_CPU_requirements_for_an_ARK_server\"><\/span>6. What are the minimum CPU requirements for an ARK server?<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<pre><code>You should have at least a **CPU with 2 cores and a clock speed of 3.0 GHz** or greater for a small ARK server. More cores and a higher clock speed will offer better performance.\n<\/code><\/pre>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"7_What_is_the_best_operating_system_for_an_ARK_server\"><\/span>7. What is the best operating system for an ARK server?<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<pre><code>While ARK servers can run on either Windows or Linux, **CentOS Linux is generally recommended for standalone dedicated servers** due to its stability and efficiency.\n<\/code><\/pre>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"8_What_is_port_forwarding_and_why_is_it_needed\"><\/span>8. What is port forwarding, and why is it needed?<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p><strong>Port forwarding<\/strong> is a router setting that directs incoming network traffic to the correct computer or device on your local network. It&#8217;s needed so that players can connect to your server.<\/p>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"9_What_is_the_Ark_Server_Manager\"><\/span>9. What is the Ark Server Manager?<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p><strong>Ark Server Manager<\/strong> is a free third-party software designed to simplify the process of setting up and managing a dedicated <strong>ARK: Survival Evolved<\/strong> server, making it easier for users who are not experienced in server administration.<\/p>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"10_How_many_players_can_play_on_a_non-dedicated_ARK_server\"><\/span>10. How many players can play on a non-dedicated ARK server?<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p><strong>Non-dedicated servers are limited to 4 players<\/strong>, and these players must be within a limited range of the hosting player.<\/p>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"11_How_do_I_update_my_ARK_server\"><\/span>11. How do I update my ARK server?<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<pre><code>You can update your server software through the SteamCMD command-line tool, or with the integrated update features provided in third-party tools like Ark Server Manager. Check for updates regularly.\n<\/code><\/pre>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"12_What_are_some_common_issues_when_setting_up_an_ARK_server\"><\/span>12. What are some common issues when setting up an ARK server?<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<pre><code>Common issues include **incorrect port forwarding**, **insufficient hardware resources**, **mod conflicts**, and **outdated server software**.\n<\/code><\/pre>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"13_Can_I_use_mods_on_my_ARK_server\"><\/span>13. Can I use mods on my ARK server?<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<pre><code>Yes, you can use mods on your ARK server. However, mods need to be downloaded and configured correctly. Ensure they are compatible with the server\u2019s version.\n<\/code><\/pre>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"14_What_happens_when_you_host_a_non-dedicated_server_ARK\"><\/span>14. What happens when you host a non-dedicated server ARK?<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<pre><code>When you host a non-dedicated server, your computer acts as both the server and the client. This means the game performance may suffer and other players are limited by the proximity to you, the host.\n<\/code><\/pre>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"15_What_are_some_advantages_and_disadvantages_of_dedicated_vs_non-dedicated_servers\"><\/span>15. What are some advantages and disadvantages of dedicated vs. non-dedicated servers?<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p><strong>Dedicated servers<\/strong> offer better performance, player capacity, and the ability to run 24\/7, but require more technical knowledge and often involve a cost. <strong>Non-dedicated servers<\/strong> are easier to set up for small groups, but are more limited in player capacity and availability.<\/p>\n<p>In conclusion, hosting your own ARK server involves a number of crucial decisions, from choosing the right hardware to properly setting up and managing the software. Weighing your choices of <strong>dedicated<\/strong> or <strong>non-dedicated<\/strong> servers, <strong>self-hosting<\/strong> or <strong>renting<\/strong>, and carefully addressing the server requirements and maintenance, will ensure your server provides the best possible experience for you and your fellow survivors.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>What Does It Take to Host an ARK Server? Hosting your own ARK: Survival Evolved server can unlock a whole new level of gaming experience, allowing you and your friends to explore the prehistoric world with customized rules and settings. But what exactly does it take to bring your own ARK server to life? In &#8230; <a title=\"What does it take to host an ARK server?\" class=\"read-more\" href=\"https:\/\/www.gameslearningsociety.org\/wiki\/what-does-it-take-to-host-an-ark-server\/\" aria-label=\"More on What does it take to host an ARK server?\">Read more<\/a><\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":2,"featured_media":0,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"footnotes":""},"categories":[3],"tags":[],"class_list":["post-22152","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","hentry","category-blog"],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.gameslearningsociety.org\/wiki\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/22152","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.gameslearningsociety.org\/wiki\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.gameslearningsociety.org\/wiki\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.gameslearningsociety.org\/wiki\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/2"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.gameslearningsociety.org\/wiki\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=22152"}],"version-history":[{"count":0,"href":"https:\/\/www.gameslearningsociety.org\/wiki\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/22152\/revisions"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.gameslearningsociety.org\/wiki\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=22152"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.gameslearningsociety.org\/wiki\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=22152"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.gameslearningsociety.org\/wiki\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=22152"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}