Are you a fan of the popular survival game Ark: Survival Evolved, but feeling limited by the official servers on your PS4? Look no further! In this comprehensive guide, we will walk you through the steps to create your very own unofficial PC Ark server for PS4. This means you can have full control over your gaming experience, from customizing the settings to playing with friends or even strangers in a world of your own creation.
The process may seem daunting at first, but fear not! With our step-by-step instructions, even those with limited technical knowledge can successfully set up their server. Whether you want to create a peaceful haven for exploration or a brutal battlefield for PvP action, this guide will empower you to unleash your creativity and take your Ark experience to the next level. So put on your adventurer’s hat, grab your virtual tools, and let’s dive into the exciting world of unofficial PC Ark servers for PS4.
Step 1: System Requirements and Preparation
A. Checking the PC’s specifications
Before setting up an unofficial PC Ark server for PS4, it’s important to ensure that your PC meets the necessary system requirements. Ark: Survival Evolved is a demanding game, and running a server alongside it requires adequate hardware.
To begin, check your PC’s specifications including the processor, RAM, and storage capacity. The game recommends at least a quad-core processor, 8GB of RAM, and 80GB of free storage space. Make sure your PC meets or exceeds these requirements for optimal server performance.
B. Downloading the necessary software
Once you have confirmed that your PC meets the system requirements, it’s time to download the necessary software to run the Ark server.
You will need to download the Ark: Survival Evolved Dedicated Server software from the official website. This software allows you to host your own server and customize the gameplay experience. Choose the version of the software that is compatible with your operating system (Windows, Linux, or macOS).
After downloading the dedicated server software, extract the files to a location of your choice on your PC. It is recommended to create a dedicated folder specifically for the server files. This will make it easier to manage and update the server in the future.
Once the files are extracted, double-click on the “ShooterGameServer.exe” file to launch the server. This will generate the necessary files and folders for the server to run properly.
By checking your PC’s specifications and downloading the necessary software, you have taken the first step in setting up an unofficial PC Ark server for PS4. In the next section, we will cover how to configure your router to ensure smooth connectivity to the server.
Step 2: Configuring the router
A. Port forwarding for the server
Once you have checked your PC’s specifications and downloaded the necessary software, the next step in setting up an unofficial PC Ark server for PS4 is configuring your router. Port forwarding is an essential step that allows external devices to connect to your server.
To start, you will need to access your router’s settings, which can typically be done by entering your router’s IP address in a web browser. Once you have accessed the settings, locate the port forwarding section. This may be listed under various names depending on your router’s manufacturer.
Next, you will need to forward the necessary ports for ARK: Survival Evolved. The default ports for the game are 7777 (UDP) and 27015 (TCP/UDP), but you can also choose to forward additional ports if your server will support modded gameplay.
To forward the ports, enter the port numbers in the appropriate fields and specify the IP address of the PC running the dedicated server. This ensures that any incoming connections to the specified ports will be directed to your PC.
After saving the port forwarding settings, be sure to restart your router to apply the changes.
B. Enabling UPnP
While manually forwarding ports is the traditional method, enabling Universal Plug and Play (UPnP) on your router can simplify the process. UPnP allows devices on your network to automatically configure port forwarding without requiring manual setup.
To enable UPnP, navigate to your router’s settings and locate the UPnP section. Enable UPnP and save the settings. This will automatically configure the necessary port forwarding for the ARK: Survival Evolved server.
However, it’s important to note that not all routers support UPnP or may have it disabled by default. Additionally, enabling UPnP may pose potential security risks. Therefore, it’s crucial to ensure that your router’s firmware is up to date and that you have implemented proper security measures to safeguard your network.
By successfully configuring port forwarding or enabling UPnP, you have now opened the required ports for your unofficial PC Ark server. With this necessary step completed, you can proceed to the next section to install the ARK: Survival Evolved Dedicated Server.
Step 4: Setting up server admin privileges
A. Configuring admin permissions for the server
Once the ARK: Survival Evolved Dedicated Server is installed and running, it is important to configure server admin privileges to ensure proper management and control over the server. Admins have access to a variety of commands and settings that regular players do not, allowing them to monitor and enforce rules, resolve player issues, and maintain overall server stability.
To configure admin permissions, follow these steps:
1. Navigate to the “ShooterGame/Saved” folder on your PC where the server files are located.
2. Open the “WindowsServer” folder and locate the file named “GameUserSettings.ini”.
3. Open the file with a text editor such as Notepad.
4. Look for the “AdminPassword=” line and set a password for administrative access. This password will be required to gain admin privileges on the server.
5. Save the changes and exit the text editor.
6. Restart the ARK: Survival Evolved Dedicated Server for the changes to take effect.
Now, when accessing the server through the game, you can enter the admin password to gain admin privileges. This will allow you to execute commands in the game console, such as kicking or banning players, changing server settings, and managing server events.
B. Setting up a server password
In addition to configuring admin privileges, setting up a server password is crucial for maintaining control over who can access the server and play on it. Without a password, anyone can join the server, potentially leading to unwanted disruptions or griefing.
To set up a server password, follow these steps:
1. Locate the “WindowsNoEditor” folder within the ARK: Survival Evolved Dedicated Server installation directory.
2. Find the file named “Game.ini” and open it with a text editor.
3. Look for the following line: “ServerPassword=”.
4. Enter the desired password within the quotation marks next to “ServerPassword=”.
5. Save the changes and exit the text editor.
6. Restart the ARK: Survival Evolved Dedicated Server for the changes to take effect.
Now, when players attempt to join the server, they will be prompted to enter the server password before they can access the game.
By configuring admin permissions and setting up a server password, you can ensure that only trusted individuals have control over the server and prevent unauthorized access. This helps maintain a safe and enjoyable gaming experience for all players on the server.
Step 5: Modding the server (optional)
Modding your unofficial PC Ark server for PS4 can enhance gameplay and provide additional features and customization options. This step is optional but can greatly enhance the overall gaming experience for you and your players.
A. Installing mods for additional features and customization
To install mods on your server, follow these steps:
1. Find and download the mods you want to install. You can browse and download mods from websites like Steam Workshop or other modding communities.
2. Once downloaded, locate the mod files. They are usually in a compressed format like .zip or .rar.
3. Extract the mod files to a folder on your computer.
4. Connect to your server using an FTP client (such as FileZilla).
5. Navigate to the “Mods” folder on your server. If there isn’t one, create a new folder and name it “Mods”.
6. Upload the extracted mod files to the “Mods” folder on your server.
7. Restart your server to activate the installed mods.
B. Managing mods and their compatibility
Managing mods and ensuring their compatibility with your server is crucial to avoid conflicts and compatibility issues. Here are some tips for managing mods on your server:
1. Keep track of the mods you have installed and their respective versions. This will help you troubleshoot any issues that may arise.
2. Regularly update your mods to their latest versions to take advantage of bug fixes and new features.
3. Check for mod compatibility with each other and with the latest version of the game. Some mods may not work together or may become incompatible after game updates.
4. Test the mods on your server before opening it to players. This will allow you to identify any issues or conflicts that need to be resolved.
5. Communicate with your players and gather feedback on the mods. This will help you understand what works well and what needs improvement.
Remember, modding can be a double-edged sword. While it can enhance gameplay, it can also introduce instability and create conflicts. It’s essential to carefully manage and monitor the mods installed on your server to provide a stable and enjoyable gaming experience for everyone.
Taking the time to mod your server can create a unique and customized gaming environment that sets it apart from others. It allows you to tailor the gameplay experience to your liking and attract players who share similar preferences. So, don’t hesitate to explore the vast modding community and add that extra touch to your unofficial PC Ark server for PS4.
Step 6: Adjusting server settings
A. Configuring server rules and gameplay settings
Once you have set up your unofficial PC Ark server for PS4, it’s time to dive into the exciting world of server configuration. This step allows you to tailor the gameplay experience according to your preferences and the desires of your community. Adjusting server rules and gameplay settings can significantly enhance the overall gameplay experience and ensure that players have a fun and engaging time on your server.
To configure server rules, you will need to access the server settings through the dedicated server software. Within the server settings menu, you can modify various aspects such as harvesting rates, experience gains, taming speeds, and resource respawn rates. These settings will directly impact the progression speed and difficulty level of the game. It’s important to strike a balance that appeals to a wide range of players while aligning with the intended vision for your server.
Additionally, you can tweak various gameplay settings, such as player versus environment (PvE) or player versus player (PvP) modes, structure decay timers, and enable or disable certain in-game features like cross-play or transfers. These settings help create a unique and tailored experience that aligns with your server’s theme or objective.
B. Adjusting player and dino stats for balance
In Ark: Survival Evolved, the stats of players and dinosaurs can heavily influence the gameplay dynamics. As a server administrator, you have the power to balance these stats to ensure fair and enjoyable gameplay for all players. By adjusting these stats, you can make the game more challenging or casual, depending on your server’s intended environment.
Player stats include attributes such as health, stamina, weight, and damage output, while dinosaur stats encompass similar aspects specific to tamed creatures. Adjusting these stats can create a unique gameplay experience that suits your server’s vision. For example, you may choose to increase player or dinosaur health to provide a more relaxed and PvE-focused experience, or decrease damage output to foster a more strategic and cooperative PvP environment.
It is crucial to find a balance that promotes fair gameplay and avoids creating an environment that is eTher too easy or excessively difficult. Regularly gathering feedback from your player community can assist in fine-tuning these settings, ensuring a satisfying experience for all.
By carefully configuring server rules and gameplay settings, as well as adjusting player and dinosaur stats, you can shape your unofficial PC Ark server for PS4 into a unique and immersive gaming environment. This customization allows you to create an unforgettable experience that attracts and engages players, fostering a vibrant community on your server. So get ready to wield the power of server configuration and provide an exceptional gaming experience for Ark: Survival Evolved players on the PlayStation 4.
Step 7: Promoting and managing the server
A. Advertising the server to attract players
Once your unofficial PC Ark server is up and running, the next step is to attract players to join your server and create a thriving community. Here are some effective ways to advertise and promote your server:
1. Server listing websites: There are several websites dedicated to listing and promoting Ark servers. Take advantage of these platforms and create a detailed listing for your server. Include information such as server name, server settings, server IP address, player limit, and any unique features or mods your server offers.
2. Social media: Utilize social media platforms like Facebook, Twitter, and Reddit to create posts and threads about your server. Join relevant Ark communities and groups to share your server information and engage with potential players. Encourage current players to share their experiences on their own social media accounts to attract their friends and other gamers.
3. Ark forums and communities: Participate in Ark forums and online communities to promote your server. Create threads and posts highlighting the features and benefits of your server. Engage with other community members, answer questions, and provide updates on server events and activities.
4. In-game advertising: Utilize the in-game chat system to advertise your server. Reach out to players on public servers and let them know about your server and its unique offerings. Be respectful and avoid spamming or overly aggressive advertising, as this can have a negative impact on your reputation.
B. Enforcing server rules and handling player issues
As the server admin, it is your responsibility to enforce server rules and ensure a positive gaming experience for all players. Here are some tips for managing your server effectively:
1. Clearly define server rules: Create a set of rules that outline acceptable behavior, including guidelines for PvP, griefing, and chat etiquette. Display these rules on your server listing and communicate them to players regularly.
2. Use admin commands wisely: Admin commands can be a powerful tool for managing the server, but be cautious when using them. Use commands to resolve issues or address rule violations, but avoid abusing admin privileges. Transparency and fairness are key to maintaining a healthy community.
3. Communication is key: Establish open lines of communication with your players. Encourage them to report issues or concerns, and provide a platform for them to do so, such as a Discord server or dedicated email address. Regularly engage with players, addressing questions and resolving conflicts promptly.
4. Regularly monitor and update: Keep an eye on server activity and perform regular checks to ensure the smooth running of your server. Update server settings, mods, and configurations as necessary to improve gameplay and address any issues that arise.
By effectively promoting and managing your unofficial PC Ark server, you can create a thriving community of players who enjoy a unique and personalized gaming experience. Remember to prioritize fair play, communication, and regular maintenance to ensure a positive gaming environment for all.
Step 8: Improving server performance
A. Optimizing PC and network settings for smoother gameplay
In order to provide a smooth and lag-free gaming experience on your unofficial PC Ark server for PS4, it is essential to optimize your PC and network settings. This will help reduce any potential latency issues and ensure that players can enjoy the game without interruptions. Here are some tips to improve server performance:
1. Allocate sufficient system resources: Make sure your PC has enough RAM, CPU power, and storage space to handle the server’s demands. Upgrade your hardware if necessary to prevent any performance bottlenecks.
2. Close unnecessary background processes: Before launching the server, close any unnecessary programs running in the background. This will free up system resources and help the server run more efficiently.
3. Configure network settings: Optimize your router and network settings for gaming. Enable Quality of Service (QoS) to prioritize gaming traffic over other internet activities. This will reduce latency and ensure a stable connection for players.
4. Enable port forwarding: Double-check that you have correctly set up port forwarding for your server. This allows incoming connections from PS4 players and ensures smooth gameplay.
5. Use a wired connection: For the best possible connection, use an Ethernet cable instead of relying on Wi-Fi. A wired connection provides a more stable and consistent network connection.
B. Regular maintenance and updates
To maintain optimal performance, it is important to regularly maintain and update your unofficial PC Ark server. Follow these practices to ensure the continued smooth operation of your server:
1. Keep server software updated: Check for updates and patches for the ARK: Survival Evolved Dedicated Server software regularly. These updates often include bug fixes and performance improvements that can enhance the server’s stability.
2. Monitor server performance: Continuously monitor the server’s performance using performance monitoring tools. This will help you identify any bottlenecks or issues before they negatively impact gameplay.
3. Clear server logs and cache: Regularly clean up server logs and cache files to free up disk space and prevent any performance degradation.
4. Communicate with players: Maintain open communication with the players on your server to address any performance concerns or issues they may experience. Regularly gather feedback and make necessary adjustments to improve the gameplay experience.
By following these optimization and maintenance practices, you can ensure that your unofficial PC Ark server for PS4 runs smoothly and provides an enjoyable gaming experience for all players. Remember to prioritize player satisfaction and strive to create a high-performance server environment.
Step 9: Backing up server data
A. Importance of regular backups
One of the most crucial steps in setting up an unofficial PC Ark server for PS4 is ensuring that your server data is backed up regularly. Backups are essential for protecting your progress and preventing any potential loss of data. Without regular backups, you run the risk of experiencing a catastrophic server failure or losing hours of gameplay due to unforeseen circumstances. It is important to prioritize the safety of your server data to maintain a positive gaming experience for both yourself and your players.
Regular backups provide a safety net for your server, allowing you to restore previous save points in the event of a major issue or server crash. They also allow you to recover lost data or progress caused by accidental deletions or corruption. By implementing a backup system, you can minimize downtime and ensure that your server remains up and running smoothly.
B. Methods for backing up server data
There are several methods you can utilize to back up your server data effectively. Here are a few options to consider:
1. Manual Backups: Manually copying and saving your server files to an external storage device, such as a USB drive or external hard drive, is a simple way to create backups. It is recommended to perform manual backups regularly, such as daily or weekly, to ensure you have the most up-to-date version of your server data.
2. Automated Backup Tools: Utilizing automated backup tools can simplify the process of creating and managing backups. These tools can be scheduled to automatically back up your server data at specified intervals, providing convenience and peace of mind.
3. Cloud Storage: Storing your server backups on cloud platforms, such as Dropbox, Google Drive, or Microsoft OneDrive, adds an additional layer of protection. Cloud storage ensures that your backups are securely stored off-site and can be accessed from any location with an internet connection.
Remember to choose a backup method that suits your preferences and needs. Combination approaches, such as manual backups supplemented by automated tools or cloud storage, offer the most comprehensive backup strategy.
By regularly backing up your server data, you can safeguard your progress and ensure a smooth gaming experience for yourself and your players. Don’t overlook this crucial step in setting up your unofficial PC Ark server for PS4.
Step 9: Backing up server data
A. Importance of regular backups
Backing up your server data is an essential step in ensuring the security and longevity of your unofficial PC Ark server for PS4. Regular backups are particularly crucial because they protect against potential data loss or corruption, allowing you to restore your server to a previous state if necessary. Here are some reasons why regular backups are important:
1. Protection against hardware failure: Hard drive crashes and other hardware failures can occur unexpectedly, potentially resulting in permanent data loss. By regularly backing up your server data, you can mitigate the risk of losing important files and configurations.
2. Safeguard against accidental deletions: Mistakes happen, and files can be unintentionally deleted. Having backups ensures that you can easily recover any lost data without significant disruptions to your server.
3. Defense against cyber threats: Online gaming communities are not immune to cyber threats such as hacking or ransomware attacks. Regular backups provide an extra layer of protection, allowing you to restore your server to a secure state in case of a security breach.
4. Recovery from software glitches: Software updates or modifications gone wrong can cause server instability or crashes. With backups, you can revert back to a stable version of your server and troubleshoot any issues that arise.
B. Methods for backing up server data
To effectively back up your server data, consider implementing the following methods:
1. Manual backups: Manually copying and storing important server files and configurations on external storage devices such as external hard drives or cloud storage platforms is a straightforward and easily accessible backup solution. This method requires regular manual intervention to ensure backups are up to date.
2. Scheduled backups: Utilize backup software or scripts to schedule automated backups at regular intervals. These tools can help streamline the backup process by automatically copying essential server data to a predetermined location, such as a dedicated backup drive or remote server.
3. Remote server backups: Utilize a remote server or hosting service that offers built-in backup features. These services often include automated backup options, allowing you to easily store and retrieve your server data in the event of unexpected issues.
When choosing a backup method, it is important to consider factors such as data size, frequency of backups, and ease of access for restoration. Regularly test your backups by restoring them to ensure their integrity and accessibility.
By prioritizing regular backups and implementing a reliable backup strategy, you can secure your unofficial PC Ark server for PS4 and ensure a smoother gaming experience for you and your community. Don’t overlook the importance of backing up your server data and enjoy peace of mind knowing that your efforts are safeguarding your server’s integrity.
Conclusion
Recap of the steps involved in setting up an unofficial PC Ark server for PS4
Setting up an unofficial PC Ark server for PS4 players can greatly enhance their gaming experience by providing a customizable and community-driven gameplay environment. Here is a recap of the steps involved in creating your own server:
Step 1: System requirements and preparation
Before diving into the server setup process, it is crucial to ensure that your PC meets the minimum system requirements for hosting an Ark server. Additionally, download the necessary software, including the ARK: Survival Evolved Dedicated Server software.
Step 2: Configuring the router
To make your server accessible to PS4 players, you need to configure your router properly. This involves port forwarding for the server and enabling Universal Plug and Play (UPnP) to simplify the process.
Step 3: Installing the ARK: Survival Evolved Dedicated Server
Download and install the dedicated server software from Steam. Once installed, modify the server settings to ensure compatibility with PS4 players.
Step 4: Setting up server admin privileges
Configure admin permissions for the server to have control over player actions and enforce server rules. Additionally, set up a server password to ensure only trusted players can join.
Step 5: Modding the server (optional)
Take your server customization to the next level by installing mods that offer additional features and customization options. It is crucial to manage mods effectively and ensure their compatibility with each other and the game.
Step 6: Adjusting server settings
Customize the server rules and gameplay settings to create the desired gaming experience. Balance player and dinosaur stats to ensure a fair and enjoyable environment for all players.
Step 7: Promoting and managing the server
Advertise your server in appropriate forums and communities to attract players and grow your community. Actively enforce server rules and handle any player issues that may arise.
Step 8: Improving server performance
Optimize your PC and network settings to ensure smoother gameplay for all players. Regularly perform maintenance and updates to keep the server running smoothly.
Step 9: Backing up server data
Regular backups of server data are crucial to prevent data loss. Explore different methods for backing up your server data, such as manual backups or using server management tools.
Encouragement to share the server with others for a great gaming experience
Once your server is up and running smoothly, encourage other players to join and share the gaming experience with friends or fellow Ark enthusiasts. A thriving community can enhance the overall enjoyment of the game.
In conclusion, setting up an unofficial PC Ark server for PS4 players requires careful preparation, configuration, and ongoing maintenance. By following the steps outlined in this guide, you can create a unique and exciting gaming environment that brings players together for countless hours of enjoyment.