Hosting a Non-Dedicated Server for ARK: Survival Evolved on PC


ARK: Survival Evolved is a popular survival game where players are thrust into a prehistoric world teeming with dinosaurs and other primal creatures.  This guide will walk you through the steps to host a non-dedicated server for ARK on PC, ensuring an optimized and enjoyable gaming experience.

What is a Non-Dedicated Server?

A non-dedicated server is a server hosted on your local machine while you play the game. This setup is ideal for small groups of friends as it is easy to set up and does not require additional costs for server hosting. However, it does have limitations, such as tethering distance, which restricts how far players can move away from the host.

System Requirements

Before setting up a non-dedicated server, ensure your PC meets the minimum system requirements for hosting and playing ARK:

  • Operating System: Windows 7/8.1/10 (64-bit versions)
  • Processor: Intel Core i5-2400/AMD FX-8320 or better
  • Memory: 8 GB RAM
  • Graphics: NVIDIA GTX 670 2GB/AMD Radeon HD 7870 2GB or better
  • Storage: 60 GB available space
  • Internet: Broadband internet connection

For a smoother experience, especially with multiple players, having a more powerful system is recommended.

Step-by-Step Guide to Hosting a Non-Dedicated Server

1. Launch ARK: Survival Evolved

First, open Steam and launch ARK: Survival Evolved from your game library. Make sure the game is updated to the latest version to avoid compatibility issues.

2. Select Host/Local Option

On the main menu, click on the "Host/Local" option. This will take you to the settings screen where you can configure your non-dedicated server.

3. Adjust Server Settings

In the "Host/Local" menu, you will see various settings you can tweak to customize your server. Key settings include:

  • Session Name: Choose a unique name for your session so friends can easily find it.
  • Password: Set a password to restrict access to your server, ensuring only invited friends can join.
  • Private Match: Enable this option to prevent your session from appearing in the public server list.
  • Tether Distance: Adjust the tether distance slider to control how far players can move away from the host. Note that setting this too high may cause performance issues.
  • Game Settings: Customize various game settings such as difficulty, taming speed, and resource gathering rates to tailor the experience to your group's preferences.

4. Launch the Server

Once you have configured the settings, click on the "Host Non-Dedicated Session" button. The game will load into the world, and your server will be live. You can now invite friends to join your session.

5. Inviting Friends

To invite friends, open the in-game menu (usually by pressing "Tab" or "Esc") and select the "Invite Friends" option. This will open your Steam friends list, where you can select friends to send invites to. Alternatively, friends can join your session directly through the "Join Ark" option in their main menu, provided they have the session name and password.

Tips for Optimizing Your Non-Dedicated Server

Ensure a Stable Internet Connection

A stable and fast internet connection is crucial for hosting a non-dedicated server. Ensure your network can handle the additional load, and consider using a wired connection to reduce latency and connection drops.

Adjust Graphics Settings

Since hosting a server and playing the game simultaneously can be demanding on your system, consider lowering the in-game graphics settings to improve performance. Focus on reducing settings like shadows, textures, and view distance.

Regularly Save Your Game

ARK can be unpredictable, and crashes or disconnections can occur. Regularly saving your game progress can prevent loss of data. Use the in-game save feature or adjust auto-save intervals in the server settings.

Backup Server Data

Periodically back up your server data to avoid losing progress due to unexpected issues. You can find the save files in the "ShooterGame\Saved" directory within the ARK installation folder.

Communicate with Players

Keep open communication with your friends playing on the server. Use voice chat or messaging apps to coordinate gameplay, resolve issues quickly, and ensure everyone has an enjoyable experience.

Common Issues and Troubleshooting

Connection Issues

If friends are having trouble connecting to your server, ensure the following:

  • The session name and password are entered correctly.
  • Your firewall or antivirus is not blocking ARK.
  • Your router's NAT type is set to open, or port forwarding is configured for ARK (default ports: 7777 and 27015).

Performance Problems

If the game is lagging or stuttering, try the following:

  • Lower in-game graphics settings.
  • Close unnecessary background applications to free up system resources.
  • Increase the tether distance gradually to find a balance between performance and player freedom.

Conclusion

Hosting a non-dedicated server for ARK: Survival Evolved on PC is a fantastic way to enjoy the game with friends. By following this guide, you can set up and optimize your server, providing a seamless and enjoyable experience for your group. Remember to communicate with your friends, adjust settings as needed, and enjoy the thrilling adventure that ARK offers. Happy surviving!

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