So you're ready to dive into the prehistoric world of Ark Survival Evolved with friends, but the complexities of server hosting seem daunting? Fear not! This guide will walk you through the process of setting up and managing a non-dedicated Ark server, empowering you to control your own dinosaur-filled adventure. We'll cover everything from initial setup to advanced configuration options, ensuring you're ready to tame the wild lands on your terms.
Understanding Non-Dedicated vs. Dedicated Servers
Before we begin, it's crucial to understand the key difference between non-dedicated and dedicated servers. A dedicated server runs independently, requiring a separate computer or hosting service. A non-dedicated server, however, runs directly on the computer of one of the players in the game. This means the host must be online for the server to function. While lacking the always-on capability of a dedicated server, the non-dedicated option offers simplicity and ease of setup, ideal for smaller groups of players.
Setting Up Your Non-Dedicated Ark Server: A Step-by-Step Guide
The process is relatively straightforward, though a few prerequisites need to be met:
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Game Ownership: Ensure you own a legitimate copy of Ark: Survival Evolved. The server runs directly through your game client.
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Sufficient System Requirements: Hosting a non-dedicated server demands decent PC specs. Lag and performance issues are common with insufficient RAM, CPU power, and a slow internet connection. Ensure your computer meets or exceeds the recommended requirements for Ark. Monitor your system performance while the server is running to identify potential bottlenecks.
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Port Forwarding (Optional but Recommended): While not strictly necessary, port forwarding allows players outside your local network to connect. This opens up the game to friends who aren't physically with you. Consult your router's manual or your internet service provider's support documentation for instructions on port forwarding, specifically for the ports used by Ark (these are usually found in the game's server settings).
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Launching the Server: Start Ark: Survival Evolved. Instead of selecting "Join Ark," you'll find an option to "Host/Local." Click this and you'll enter the server settings menu.
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Configuring Server Settings: Here’s where you customize your Ark world:
- Map Selection: Choose the map you want to play (e.g., The Island, Ragnarok, Extinction).
- Difficulty: Adjust the difficulty levels, including the experience gain rate, harvesting amounts, and the overall challenge.
- Game Rules: Customize various gameplay aspects, such as the maximum player count, dino damage multipliers, and more. Experiment and fine-tune to achieve the desired gameplay experience.
- Passphrase (Optional): Add a passphrase for extra security to prevent unwanted players from joining.
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Starting the Server: Once you've made your adjustments, click "Start Server." This will launch the game as a non-dedicated server on your local network.
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Inviting Players: Other players can join by finding your server in the "Join Ark" section. They will need your server's IP address if it is not on the same local network. If you've set up port forwarding, they can access the server from anywhere with an internet connection.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
- Lag: High lag is a common problem with non-dedicated servers. If you are experiencing lag, consider upgrading your system hardware, closing unnecessary applications, or lowering the game's graphical settings.
- Connection Problems: If players can't connect, check your firewall settings, verify that port forwarding is correctly configured (if attempting to host for external players), and ensure the game server is correctly launched.
Advanced Server Configuration
While the basic settings provide a solid foundation, exploring the advanced options allows for greater customization. The Ark community provides abundant resources and tutorials on advanced server configurations, allowing for tweaking aspects like:
- Mod Support: Adding mods can significantly alter the gameplay, allowing for everything from new creatures and items to completely overhauled mechanics.
- Resource Respawn Rates: Fine-tune how quickly resources respawn to adjust the overall pace and challenge of the game.
Hosting a non-dedicated Ark server provides a flexible and manageable way to play with friends. By understanding the process and addressing potential issues proactively, you'll create an engaging and memorable Ark experience. Remember that experimentation is key to finding the optimal balance for your gameplay style and system resources. Happy surviving!
