How Do I Make a Private Server on Ark?

Are you an avid Ark player looking to create your own private server? Well, you’ve come to the right place!

In this tutorial, we will walk you through the step-by-step process of setting up your very own private server on Ark. So grab your keyboard and let’s get started!

Step 1: Gathering the Requirements

Before diving into the server setup, let’s take a moment to gather all the necessary requirements. To create a private server on Ark, you’ll need:

• A Powerful Computer: Since running a server requires processing power, make sure your computer meets the minimum system requirements for running Ark.
• The Game Itself: You should have a copy of Ark installed on your computer. You can purchase it from official online stores or via Steam.
• Static IP Address: A static IP address is essential for hosting a private server. Contact your internet service provider (ISP) to obtain one.

Step 2: Port Forwarding

In order for other players to connect to your private server, you need to configure port forwarding on your router. Follow these steps:

1. Login to Your Router: Open a web browser and enter your router’s IP address in the address bar. You can find this information in the user manual or by contacting your router manufacturer.
2. Navigate to Port Forwarding Settings: Look for the port forwarding settings in your router’s admin panel. It may be located under “Advanced settings” or “Security. “
3. Add a New Port Forwarding Rule: Click on “Add New” or a similar button to create a new rule.

   Enter the following details:

   • Service Name: Choose a name for your server (e.g., “Ark Server”).
   • Internal IP Address: Enter the static IP address of your computer.
   • Protocol: Select “TCP/UDP” or “Both. “
   • External Port Range: Set the range of ports you want to forward (e., 7777-7778).
   • Internal Port Range: Set the same port range as the external ports.
4. Save and Apply Changes: Once you’ve entered all the details, save the settings and apply them. Your router will now forward incoming connections on the specified ports to your computer.

Step 3: Configuring the Server

In this step, we will configure your private server settings by modifying the game’s configuration file. Follow these steps:

1. Navigate to Ark Server Files:

Your Ark server files are located in a specific directory on your computer. The default directory is usually:

Windows: C:\Program Files (x86)\Steam\steamapps\common\ARK\ShooterGame\Saved\Config\WindowsServer

Linux: /home/steamcmd/ark/ShooterGame/Saved/Config/LinuxServer

If you installed Ark at a different location, adjust the above path accordingly.

2. Edit GameUserSettings.ini:

In the above directory, locate and open the file named “GameUserSettings.ini” using a text editor like Notepad++ or Sublime Text. This file contains various settings for your server.

3. Modify Server Settings:

Within the “GameUserSettings.ini” file, you can modify several server settings, such as:

• Server Name: Change the name of your server by editing the value after “SessionName=”.
• Password Protection: Set a password for your server by entering a value after “ServerPassword=”.
• Taming Speed: Adjust the taming speed by changing the value after “TamingSpeedMultiplier=”.
• XP Multiplier: Modify the XP multiplier by editing the value after “XPMultiplier=”.

Note: Make sure to save your changes before proceeding to the next step.

4. Start Your Server:

To start your private server, launch Ark and select “Host/Local Play.” Customize any additional settings and click on “Play Local” to start your server. Other players can now connect using your IP address and port number.

Congratulations!

You’ve successfully set up your own private server on Ark! Now you can enjoy playing with friends in a controlled environment.

Remember to keep your computer running while hosting the server, and ensure that it has sufficient resources to handle both Ark and the server simultaneously. Happy gaming!