Ever wondered how you can host your own Ark: Survival Ascended server on PS5 and play with friends on your terms? You’re not alone. With the game’s massive worlds and endless adventures, many players want full control over their gaming experience.
Understanding how server hosting works on PS5 is crucial for smoother gameplay, more freedom, and unforgettable multiplayer moments. In this article, you’ll find clear answers, step-by-step instructions, and practical tips to help you set up your own Ark Ascended PS5 server with confidence.
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How to Host an ARK: Survival Ascended Server on PS5
Hosting your own ARK: Survival Ascended server on PS5 opens up a world of possibilities. Whether you want a private space for friends, ultimate control over gameplay settings, or a thriving public world, running a dedicated server gives you freedom not found on public matches. Here, you’ll find a clear, step-by-step guide on the process, benefits, challenges, key tips, and frequently asked questions about hosting ARK: Ascended servers on PS5.
Understanding ARK: Survival Ascended Server Hosting
Before you jump in, it’s vital to understand what server hosting means. When you host a server for ARK: Survival Ascended, you’re essentially creating a persistent world. This world remains online and saves everyone’s progress, governed by settings you choose. Others can join your server and play even when you’re not online, provided the server is running 24/7.
Types of ARK Servers for PS5
There are two main ways to have a dedicated ARK server on PS5:
- Self-hosting from your own hardware: Not natively supported on PS5 for persistent servers.
- Using a third-party hosting provider: This is currently the most practical and favored option for console players.
Step-by-Step Guide: Hosting an ARK: Survival Ascended PS5 Server
Hosting a server through a professional provider ensures easier management, better performance, and more customization. Let’s break it down:
1. Determine Your Server Needs
Ask yourself:
– How many players do you plan to host?
– What maps and mods do you want to use?
– Do you need crossplay with PC or other platforms?
Understanding the basics helps you pick the right server specs.
2. Choose a Reliable Hosting Provider
Popular hosting providers for ARK: Survival Ascended include:
- Nitrado: Well-known for robust console-compatible servers with easy setup.
- Survival Servers: Focuses on high-performance and many customization options.
- GTXGaming, Gravlehost, UltaHost, Apex Hosting, Oxygenserv: Each offers different features, prices, and control panels.
Features to Look For:
- Console (PS5) compatibility
- Automatic backups and updates
- Global server locations for reduced lag
- Friendly user panel for settings and mods
- Responsive customer support
3. Select a Hosting Plan
Hosting plans are based mainly on:
- Player slots (typically 10, 20, 32, 50+)
- RAM/CPU allocation for larger, more populated worlds
- Length of rental period (monthly, quarterly, yearly)
- Add-ons (mods support, server locations, premium support)
Some providers offer trial periods or discounts for longer commitments, so check details before purchase.
4. Configure Your Server
Once you’ve purchased a plan:
- Access Server Control Panel: Most providers have a web-based dashboard.
- Adjust Basic Settings: Map, player slots, password protection, difficulty, and game rules.
- Customize Advanced Settings: XP rates, taming speed, day/night cycles, etc.
- Set Up Whitelists and Admins: Control who can play and assign admin privileges.
- Install Mods: If supported, load your favorites for enhanced gameplay.
5. Start and Share Your Server
- Once set up, start the server from the panel.
- Share the server name or direct join address/ID with your friends.
- Invite players using the ARK server browser on PS5, filtering results by the server name or using the unique ID provided by your host.
Key Benefits of Third-Party Hosting
Why use a paid server host rather than local or unofficial methods?
- 24/7 Uptime: Private dedicated servers don’t rely on one player’s console being turned on.
- Performance: Servers run on high-end hardware, reducing lag and crashes.
- Easy Management: User-friendly interfaces make changing settings easy.
- Support: Tech issues? Most providers have responsive customer support.
- Backups: Scheduled backups protect your world from accidental loss.
Challenges & Limitations
No solution is without drawbacks. Here are some points to consider:
- Cost: Monthly fees can add up, especially for larger servers.
- Mod Restrictions: Some mods, especially those made for PC, aren’t available for consoles.
- Crossplay Limitations: Not all providers or server types allow PS5 to PC/Switch/Xbox crossplay.
- Provider Dependence: Service outages or poor support can occasionally disrupt your play.
- No Native PS5 Self-Hosting: Your PS5 can’t run a dedicated server for others to join without a third-party provider.
Practical Tips & Best Practices
- Estimate Player Numbers Carefully: Buying slots you won’t use is a waste. You can usually upgrade if your group expands.
- Choose Server Location Wisely: Pick a location nearest to most players for the lowest latency.
- Secure Your Server: Use strong admin passwords and whitelist preferred players.
- Regular Backups: Set up automatic backups where possible, or back up manually after major gameplay.
- Get Familiar With the Control Panel: Spend time learning your hosting provider’s dashboard. Some offer tutorials or wikis for in-depth help.
- Monitor Resource Usage: If your world grows or you add many mods, check server performance and consider upgrading your plan.
Cost-Saving Strategies
- Look for Deals: Many hosts offer promotional rates for new customers or discounts for annual plans.
- Split Costs: If playing with friends, share the monthly fee for a more affordable setup.
- Start Small: Begin with the basic plan and scale up as needed.
- Avoid Extras: Add-ons like premium support or extra backups can be useful, but assess what you actually need.
What Can You Expect from Top Providers?
While features vary, most leading hosts offer:
- Quick setup, often with server live in minutes
- Option to switch maps or settings with ease
- Pre-installed mods (console restrictions apply)
- Automatic updates for the latest ARK patches
- Customer panels tailored for non-technical users
Providers like Nitrado, Survival Servers, and GTXGaming are widely praised for their reliability with ARK and console support, making maintenance straightforward and minimizing downtime.
Common Scenario: Hosting a Private PS5 ARK Server
Here’s how a typical setup might look:
- You and five friends want a lag-free, persistent ARK world.
- One of you rents a 10-slot ARK: Survival Ascended server from a host.
- You configure access so only invited players can join.
- The server runs 24/7—anyone in the group can play, even if the server renter is offline.
- If your group grows, you upgrade to add more player slots.
This method is efficient, lets you control your environment, and makes for stress-free management without technical headaches.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
How can I host an ARK: Survival Ascended server on PS5?
To host a dedicated server for ARK: Survival Ascended on PS5, the most straightforward method is to rent a server from a third-party game server provider. These services handle all the technical aspects, so you just configure, start your server, and invite friends.
Can I run a dedicated ARK server directly from my PS5?
Currently, you cannot run a persistent, dedicated ARK server directly from your PS5 console. Hosting is managed via PC tools or through specialized third-party providers that support console connection.
What is the cost of renting an ARK: Survival Ascended server?
Prices typically range from $10 to $30 per month, depending on player slots, server specs, and rental period. Long-term subscriptions can yield savings, and many providers offer promotional rates.
Is crossplay possible between PS5 and other platforms?
Some server hosts support crossplay—letting PS5 users play with PC, Xbox, or Switch players—but limitations exist based on game updates and mods. Always check with your provider if crossplay is essential for your group.
What should I do if my server suffers from lag or crashes?
First, check your server resource usage via your host’s dashboard. Lag may occur if the server is overloaded or far from the player base. Try reducing player count, disabling intensive mods, or contacting your provider’s support team for help.
In Summary
Hosting your own ARK: Survival Ascended server for PS5 is the best way to create a custom, always-available world tailored to your preferences. While you can’t self-host natively on PS5, renting from a specialized server provider is straightforward and reliable. Choose your provider with care, select the right plan, configure your settings, and you’ll be enjoying a stress-free ARK adventure with friends—no matter when or how often you all want to play. By following best practices and leveraging available tools, you’ll ensure your prehistoric playground thrives!