Ever wondered how to set up your own hosting for a website or application? With so many options out there, figuring out how hosting works—and what fits your needs—can feel overwhelming. Understanding hosting is crucial for anyone looking to build an online presence, launch a blog, or run a business website.
This article will guide you through the essentials of hosting: what it is, why it matters, and how to get started, along with practical tips and advice.
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How to Host an ARK: Survival Ascended Server (ASA): Complete Guide
Hosting your own ARK: Survival Ascended (ASA) server opens up a world of possibilities. Whether you want to play privately with friends, manage a public gaming community, or customize your gameplay experience, learning how to host is the first key step. Below, you’ll find a comprehensive breakdown of everything you need to know to get your ASA server up and running smoothly.
Understanding ARK: Survival Ascended Hosting
ARK: Survival Ascended servers are dedicated spaces where players explore, build, and survive together. You have two main hosting options:
- Self-hosted (DIY): Running the server on your own PC or rented hardware.
- Third-party game server hosting: Renting from companies specializing in ASA servers.
Each method has its pros and cons, and your ideal choice will depend on your needs, technical know-how, and budget.
Hosting Methods Explained
1. Self-Hosting Your ASA Server
What is Self-Hosting?
Self-hosting means you use your own computer or a dedicated machine to run the ARK server software. This approach puts you in full control.
Steps to Self-Host:
- Check System Requirements
- High processor speed (quad-core or better)
- At least 8 GB RAM (16+ GB recommended for larger servers)
- SSD storage for faster loading
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Stable broadband internet (upload speeds matter!)
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Install SteamCMD (Server Tool)
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Download and set up SteamCMD, which manages ARK server updates.
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Download the ARK: Survival Ascended Server Files
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Use SteamCMD to install the dedicated server files.
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Configure Your Server
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Edit configuration files to set map, player caps, rules, admin passwords, etc.
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Port Forwarding on Your Router
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Forward required ports so players outside your network can join. ASA’s default ports are typically 7777 and 27015.
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Launch & Maintain the Server
- Start your server, monitor performance, and keep server software updated.
Benefits of Self-Hosting
- Full customization
- No monthly hosting fees
- Direct access and control
Challenges
- Computer must run 24/7 if you want constant uptime
- Home internet is often less stable than data centers
- Can be technically challenging for beginners
2. Using Third-Party ASA Server Hosting
If you’d rather skip the complicated setup, third-party server providers make things much simpler. Companies offer pre-configured ASA hosting, letting you get started in minutes.
Leading ASA Hosting Features:
- Instant Setup: Get a server running quickly without manual install.
- Crossplay Support: Allow players from different platforms to join.
- DDoS Protection: Safeguard your sessions from outside attacks.
- Mod Support: Easy integration for custom maps, mods, or settings.
- Automatic Backups & Updates: Peace of mind if something goes wrong.
- 24/7 Customer Support: Help when you need it.
Steps to Host with a Provider:
- Choose a Provider
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Popular options include Nitrado, Gravel Host, Ultahost, Apex Hosting, and others.
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Select a Plan
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Plans vary based on player slots, RAM, mods, and other perks.
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Configure Your Server
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Name your server, set passwords, tweak rules, and add mods.
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Pay and Launch
- Once set up, you get a control panel for management and can invite friends right away.
Benefits
- No technical fuss: All the heavy lifting is done for you.
- Reputation: Established hosts offer high uptime and support.
- No hardware worries: Your PC doesn’t need to stay on.
Challenges
- Recurring Fees: Hosting is a subscription model.
- Limited access: Some custom features may be restricted by the provider.
Choosing Between Self-Hosting and Third-Party Servers
| Aspect | Self-Hosting | Third-Party Hosting |
|---|---|---|
| Cost | Electric/internet bills | Recurring service fees |
| Setup Difficulty | Advanced | Beginner-friendly |
| Uptime | Depends on your PC | 24/7 (with proper plan) |
| Mod Support | Full | Varies, usually good |
| Support | DIY, community forums | Professional customer support |
Key Steps for Smooth ASA Hosting
1. Assess Your Needs
- Casual play with friends? Small server works.
- Public or community server? Opt for higher resources or pro hosting.
2. Optimize Server Settings
Balancing performance and player experience is vital. Consider tweaking:
- Player limits to avoid lag.
- Day/night cycle length for preferred gameplay.
- Difficulty and dinosaur spawn rates.
3. Secure Your Server
- Always use strong admin passwords.
- Decide if you want a whitelist (friends only) or open access.
- Regularly update both game and OS software to patch vulnerabilities.
4. Manage Mods Carefully
- Limit mods to essentials—too many mods can cause crashes or slow load times.
- Use popular, updated mods to minimize compatibility issues.
5. Regular Backups
- Schedule automated backups to avoid data loss.
- Rotate backups to safeguard against corruption or attacks.
Tips and Best Practices for ASA Hosting
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Monitor Performance:
Use server monitoring tools to watch RAM, CPU, and connection stability. Address bottlenecks proactively. -
Communicate with Players:
Create a Discord server or online group for your player community. -
Establish Clear Rules:
Post server rules and expectations to prevent conflicts. -
Engage in Community:
Join ARK hosting forums or Discords to share experiences and get help. -
Experiment:
Try different rates and settings. ASA is highly customizable!
Cost Considerations and Budget Tips
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Self-hosting:
You’ll save on fees, but weigh the cost of leaving your PC on all the time—electricity and wear add up. -
Third-party hosting:
Entry-level plans start fairly low, but upgrading for more slots or features can grow monthly costs fast.
Tips to Save:
– Choose a server in a location closest to most players for best ping and sometimes lower costs.
– Start with a small slot plan—you can upgrade as your community grows.
– Look for seasonal sales or promotions from hosting providers.
– For group hosting, consider pooling funds among players.
Advanced ASA Hosting Aspects
Backups and Redundancy
Never underestimate the importance of backups:
– Enable automatic daily or weekly backups.
– Test backup restoration periodically to ensure reliability.
Mod and Map Management
- Stay current with mod updates—they must match server/game versions.
- Custom maps and scenarios keep gameplay fresh but may require more RAM/CPU.
Server Cluster Setup
For those wanting multi-map progression, setting up clusters allows travel between different maps with saved character and tame data.
Managing Player Data
- Data grows over time; monitor save file sizes.
- Regularly prune inactive users’ data if server resources are limited.
Troubleshooting and Common Pitfalls
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High Lag:
Lower player count, optimize server settings, or upgrade hardware/hosting plan. -
Crashes:
Usually from mod conflicts or outdated files—update everything, and disable mods one by one to pinpoint issues. -
Connection Issues:
Double-check port forwarding (self-hosted) or contact provider support. -
Backups Not Working:
Manually test restores to ensure your backup system is working.
Conclusion
Hosting an ARK: Survival Ascended server is a rewarding endeavor, offering endless ways to craft your own prehistoric adventures. Whether you go the self-hosted route for maximum control or select a third-party provider for peace of mind, the key is clear planning and active management. Remember to consider your needs, monitor server health, safeguard security, and foster a welcoming gaming environment. With the right setup, your ASA server will be a hub of fun and community for months and years to come.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
How many players can I host on an ASA server?
The maximum depends on your server hardware or hosting plan. For self-hosting, 10-20 players are manageable with a strong PC, while third-party hosts commonly offer plans for anywhere from 10 up to hundreds of players.
Can I add mods to my ARK: Survival Ascended server?
Absolutely! ASA supports modding. If you self-host, you can manually add mods as desired. Most reputable server hosts offer an easy way to browse and install popular mods.
Do I need to leave my computer on all the time when self-hosting?
Yes, if you want the server to be accessible at all times, your hosting computer must remain on and connected to the internet. Third-party hosts handle uptime for you.
How much does it cost to host an ASA server?
Self-hosting primarily costs electricity and hardware upkeep. Third-party hosts generally charge a monthly fee based on player slots, server specs, and added features. Entry-level plans can start at a few dollars per month but can increase for higher-end configurations.
How do I keep my ASA server secure from hackers or griefers?
Use strong admin passwords, enable Steam authentication, and stay current with updates. Consider whitelisting players if you want to limit access, and make regular backups in case of trouble.
With this knowledge, you’re well-prepared to embark on your ARK: Survival Ascended hosting journey. Happy surviving!