iTechGuides is reader-supported. When you buy through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. Learn more
Godlike.Host offers hosted ARK: Survival Ascended servers with its own game panel, SFTP access and free DDoS protection, if you would rather not host it yourself.
Change the name players see in ARK: Survival Ascended’s server browser by setting SessionName. You can add ?SessionName=YourName to the server’s launch parameters, or add SessionName=YourName beneath [SessionSettings] in ShooterGame/Saved/Config/WindowsServer/GameUserSettings.ini. If both values exist, the launch parameter takes precedence.
Stop the server before editing its configuration. The file can be rewritten during shutdown, which can erase changes made while the server is still running.
Outdated Drivers Are Slowing You Down
One free scan finds every outdated or missing driver and matches the right update for your exact hardware.Free scan · exact hardware matchWindows Errors? Fix Them Before They Spread
Repair common Windows errors and clear accumulated junk for a smoother, more stable PC - no reinstall needed.Free scan · no reinstallWhat the ARK: Survival Ascended server name does
SessionName controls the session name displayed to players browsing multiplayer servers in ARK: Survival Ascended. It is the label players use to identify your server in the in-game and Steam server browsers.
Changing this value is cosmetic. It does not reset the map, alter player inventories, remove tames, change progression, or modify gameplay settings. It changes only the name shown in the browser.
#1 Best Overall
- Powerful Turbo Fan:CAGIWIRU Electric Air Duster have reached speed up to 130000RPM,Can efficient remove dust and debris.With LED light and Three Adjustable Speed to meet with different cleaning tasks.
- With Attached USB C Fasting Charging cable.Charing 3 hours,Enjoy up to 240 minutes of use on the lowest setting, For third speed can use for 25mins.with four charging options to meet with your needs.
- Wide Application:Upgraded attached 5 different nozzles,making it suitable for a variety of scenes, such as car,pet, pc, keyboards, and other electronic devices. It also serves for office and home clean duster.
- Handy Design & Portable:Cordless air duster electric nozzle is Light weight and small size, design and comfortable to hold and space saving, convenient to carry around. You can put it in your room or inside the car without taking up space.
- Warranty & Support: Our Electric air duster comes with 5 years warranty and 24/7 customer service. During this period, if you have any questions,pls kindly feel free to contact us.
Do not confuse the server name with the map name, cluster identifier, save-file name, administrator password, or maximum-player setting. Those are separate values and changing one does not automatically change the others.
Choose where to set the name
| Method | Where you edit it | Best for | Important behavior |
|---|---|---|---|
| Launch parameter | Your host’s startup command or startup/game-settings panel | Managed hosting panels and administrators who want an explicit startup value | ?SessionName= overrides the value in the INI file |
| GameUserSettings.ini | ShooterGame/Saved/Config/WindowsServer/GameUserSettings.ini, under [SessionSettings] |
Self-hosted Windows dedicated servers and hosts that provide file access | The file is created after the server starts for the first time; stop the server before editing |
Use one method if possible. Using both is valid, but it can make troubleshooting confusing because the startup parameter wins whenever the two names differ.
Before changing anything
- Record the current name so you can restore it if necessary.
- Stop the ARK: Survival Ascended server from the host panel or service manager. Do not merely disconnect from the game.
- Wait until the panel reports that the process has stopped before opening the configuration file.
- If you edit an INI file, make a copy of it first. This gives you a rollback point if a formatting mistake prevents the server from reading the setting.
- Decide whether you are changing one server or several maps in a cluster. A name change on one instance does not automatically prove that every cluster member will display the same name.
Method 1: Change the name with a launch parameter
The launch parameter format is:
?SessionName=YourName
Replace YourName with the text you want displayed. Keep the leading question mark; it is part of the parameter syntax used on the ARK server launch line.
Using a hosting control panel
- Open the server’s control panel.
- Stop the server.
- Open the page labelled Startup, Startup Parameters, Command Line, Game Settings, or a similar name. Labels differ between providers.
- Find the field for additional launch arguments. Some panels expose a dedicated server-name field instead of showing the raw command line.
- Enter
?SessionName=YourName, or enter the desired name in the dedicated session-name field if the panel generates the parameter for you. - Save the startup configuration.
- Start the server and wait for it to finish loading.
- Search for the server in the ARK multiplayer browser and confirm the displayed name.
If the panel already contains a ?SessionName= entry, edit that existing entry rather than adding a second one. Multiple entries can produce ambiguous results, and the value actually passed by the host is the one that controls the browser name.
Using a self-hosted launch command
Add the parameter to the command or script that starts the dedicated server. Place it with the other ARK server arguments, for example:
Rank #2
- Screen Cleaner is Your Screen’s New Bestfriend! - EVEO is proud to present a screen cleaner that’s perfectly suited for your TV. Meet your new screen cleaner, computer screen cleaner, laptop cleaner, iPad cleaner, Macbook,tv cleaner or any other electronic device. Our screen cleaner spray and wipe along with the included plush microfiber cloth, easily removes dust, fingerprints & other smudges on the screen’s surface. Clean effectively for a streak-free screen
- Gentle on your Screens - Our screen cleaner spray and wipes is compatible to be used even for the most sensitive LCD, LED, CRT, and OLED screens in proper use. Be at ease knowing that this product is compatible with all the major brands: LG, SONY, Samsung, Sharp, iPad, iPhone, Android screens, Kindle, PC monitors - we’ve got you covered! Can be used as LCD screen cleaner, tv cleaner, smart tv screen cleaner, and more
- Premium Super Soft Plush Microfiber Cloth - Included in this efficient screen cleaning kit. This screen cleaner spray and wipe has our signature plush microfiber cloth specially designed to comply with screens and monitors and leave them streak-free. Has been shown to effectively absorbs stubborn stains, zero streaks, and no fiber shedding. Always use this together with our screen cleaner for the best results
- Easy-to-Use Screen Cleaner Kit + microfiber cleaning cloth - The EVEO Screen Cleaning Kit will easily be your new favorite tool when it comes to taking care of the things you love most, quick and easy solution for a streak-free screen. Simply screw on the sprayer gun on the screen cleaner bottle. Spray the cleaning liquid onto the microfiber cloth, then wipe the screen until desired cleanliness & shine is achieved.
- Quality Screen Care Kit Worth Purchasing - Enjoy a convenient Screen Cleaner anytime, anywhere you need it. Your satisfaction is our top priority. We stand behind the quality of our products and that’s why, you shouldn’t be worrying at all. We manufacture the Best Screen Cleaner. and can be used for laptop cleaning kit, laptop screen cleaner, tv screen cleaner for smart tv. MacBook screen cleaner, monitor cleaner or screen cleaner spray for electronic devices with microfiber cleaning cloth
?SessionName=YourNameThe exact executable, map argument, and other switches depend on your installation and service wrapper. Do not remove existing arguments just to add the name. Append the session-name parameter to the startup configuration you already use, then restart the server.
If your operating system or service manager treats spaces specially, follow that manager’s normal argument-quoting rules. The important part for ARK is that the server receives a parameter beginning with ?SessionName= and that the value is not accidentally truncated by the wrapper.
Method 2: Change the name in GameUserSettings.ini
For a Windows dedicated server, the relevant file is:
ShooterGame/Saved/Config/WindowsServer/GameUserSettings.iniThe server normally creates this file after its first successful start. If the file is not present, start the server once, stop it cleanly, and then check the configuration directory again.
Exact editing procedure
- Stop the server completely.
- Open the server installation directory.
- Navigate to
ShooterGame/Saved/Config/WindowsServer/. - Make a backup copy of
GameUserSettings.ini. - Open the file in a plain-text editor.
- Find the heading
[SessionSettings]. - Under that heading, add or edit a plain line in this form:
SessionName=YourName. - Save the file as
GameUserSettings.ini. Ensure the editor has not changed it to an extra extension such as.txt. - Start the server.
- Look up the server in the multiplayer browser and verify the new label.
A minimal section can look like this:
[SessionSettings]
SessionName=YourNameKeep the spelling and capitalization of the key exactly as shown. The setting belongs under [SessionSettings]; placing it under an unrelated heading can cause it to be ignored without an obvious error.
Rank #3
- 【Large size】：Measuring 800 x 300 mm/ 31. 5×12 inches, which is wider and taller than others. Large mouse pad can perfectly fit your keyboard and mouse of any size, and there is also ample space for peripherals such as phones, tablets, etc.
- 【LED backlight mouse pad】：Blade Hawks RGB mouse pad provides 7 static modes and 7 dynamic modes will give you the options you are looking for. Power-off memory function remembers the last lighting mode you selected. The super glow fiber Chroma will give you a colorful gaming setup that you want.
- 【Anti-slip rubber base】：Made from Natural rubber, this gaming mousepad will firmly grip your desktop, allowing you to enjoy the ultimate precision in the games you are most passionate about. It also comes with a texture that enhances this ability even further.
- 【Smooth and waterproof surface】: Micro-textured cloth surface, for extremely precise mouse control and a smooth movement. When liquid splashes on the gaming mouse pad, it forms water droplets and slides down. Will not delay your work or gameplay.
- 【Plug and play】: This mouse and keyboard pad is powered by USB, plug and play, no driver required. One button control light modes. Press one time to change the lighting mode, press twice to change the brightness, press and hold about 3 seconds turn ON/OFF.
Editing an existing entry
If the file already contains a line beginning with SessionName=, change only the value after the equals sign. Do not create several competing SessionName lines. Remove or correct duplicate entries so there is one clear value under [SessionSettings].
Which method should you use?
The launch-parameter method is usually the practical choice when a hosting panel exposes startup settings. It avoids downloading and re-uploading files and makes the active override visible in the panel. The INI method is useful when you control the server files or when the host does not expose a session-name field.
For a stable configuration, choose one authoritative location. If you use the INI file as the source of truth, remove an old launch override that contains a different name. If your host automatically rebuilds startup arguments, the panel’s value may need to be changed even after you edit the INI file.
Precedence: why the INI change may appear not to work
ARK server launch arguments take precedence over values in the INI files. Therefore, a startup entry such as ?SessionName=OldName can continue to display OldName even after you change the file to SessionName=NewName.
What’s actually slowing this PC down?
Pick the symptom - the matching free tool is one click away.
When the name does not change, check in this order:
Rank #4
- 【Softer and More Comfortable】Vaydeer wrist rest has unique diamond pattern, which is the combination of softness and aesthetics. The materials of wrist rest are improved into higher quality memory foam and covered with silky smooth lycra. The computer wrist rest makes you as comfortable and cushiony as like rest your wrists on clouds.
- 【Ergonomic Wrist Saver】The wrist rests for keyboard and mouse comes with a 17.32×3.15×0.83 inch keyboard wrist pad and a 5.94×3.15×0.83 inch mouse wrist support. Based on ergonomic design, the unique concave shape is the perfect fit for your wrist joints. The wrist rest pad fits most computer keyboards and laptops, improve hand and wrist posture, release your wrist and arm stress.
- 【Non-Slip Rubber Bottom】Featuring an anti-skid silicone base on the bottom, this wrist keyboard support stays firmly in place on your desk, preventing the padding from sliding around, ensuring stable and consistent wrist support during extended computer sessions.
- 【Better Experience & Pain Relief】Our keyboard arm rest is beneficial to alleviate the soreness caused by direct contact and friction between your arm and a hard desk surface, reducing the risk of wrist fatigue or carpal tunnel. The soft texture of memory foam can evenly distribute the pressure around your wrists and provide good support with just enough give.
- 【Helpful in Multiple Scenarios】Whether you're working, studying, writing, typing, gaming, this keyboard and mouse rest combo is an essential accessory to add comfort and support to your hands and wrists. It’s also a great gift for men, women, family, friend, coworker, gamer, teacher, etc.
- Open the host’s startup or command-line settings and search for
SessionName. - Change or remove any launch parameter that contains the old value.
- Confirm that the INI entry is under
[SessionSettings]. - Confirm that the server was stopped before the file was saved.
- Start the server again and search for the name after the new process is running.
Do not assume that seeing the desired value in the INI file proves it is active. The effective value is the one left after command-line overrides are applied.
Verify the change in the server browser
After restarting, open ARK: Survival Ascended’s multiplayer browser and search using the same filters you normally use. Check the full displayed session name rather than relying on a remembered position in the list; server ordering can change as the browser refreshes.
If you cannot find the server, first verify that it is online and that your filters, platform selection, map selection, password filter, and unofficial/official listing choices match the server. A missing result is not automatically proof that the name setting failed.
Do these 3 things before closing this tab:
1Fix the driver behind crashes, sound loss and screen glitches2Repair Windows errors before they cause bigger problems3Scan for outdated or missing drivers - takes under a minuteAllow the server process to finish its normal startup before checking. Starting a process and immediately searching can show an older browser entry while the listing updates.
Independent reader supportYour contribution helps us test, update, and keep practical guides available for everyone.Troubleshooting common failures
The old name is still displayed
- Check for
?SessionName=OldNamein the startup command or hosting panel. This is the most important check because it overrides the INI value. - Confirm that you edited the configuration for the correct server instance. Hosts can keep separate folders for different maps or ports.
- Stop the server, edit the file, save it, and then start the server again. Editing while it runs can be overwritten at shutdown.
- Check for a second
SessionName=line under[SessionSettings]and remove the stale duplicate. - Refresh the browser search after the restart instead of relying on a previously displayed listing.
The name setting is ignored
- Verify the heading is exactly
[SessionSettings]. - Verify the key is exactly
SessionName, followed by one equals sign. - Remove accidental formatting such as quotation marks, bullet characters, or a filename extension added by the text editor.
- Make sure the file is the Windows server file at
ShooterGame/Saved/Config/WindowsServer/GameUserSettings.ini, not a similarly named client or backup file.
The server will not start after editing
- Stop the service and restore the backup copy of
GameUserSettings.ini. - Compare the edited file with the backup and reapply only the single
SessionName=line. - Use a plain-text editor and preserve the file’s existing INI structure.
- If a host panel writes the file automatically, use its supported settings field instead of repeatedly editing a generated file.
The name is cut off or appears differently
Check the actual value passed by the startup wrapper and the value stored in the INI file. A service manager can parse spaces or special characters differently from a plain text editor. Temporarily test with a short name containing ordinary letters and numbers. If the short value works, add your preferred punctuation or spacing incrementally to identify how the host’s argument parser handles it.
Best Value
- 【No Drill Mounted】Cable management tray can be assembled in as little as 3 minutes or less-simply. Side clips easily clampe the edge of desk, pass through the holes on the sides, and secure excess cables with baskets. Desk cable management supports inward or outward installation to meet your needs in different scenarios, and provides you with great convenience when collecting and organizing wires.
- 【Rubber Pad Protects Desk】Wire organizer under desk built-in soft rubber pads on the clamp protect your desk from scratches, so you will not damage your furniture or office.
- 【Sturdy and Beautiful】Cord management under desk is made of high-quality carbon steel and holds about 15 lbs. The wire basket has 2 holes on each side of the tray to enable your cables to pass freely. Cable baskets are suitable for desk thickness use from 0.4" to 2.4".
- 【Space Saving & Keep Organized】Desk cable management tray holds all your power cords, outlet strips, USB hubs and computer transformers hidden from your feet, and the data cables will not enter the vacuum cleaner to keep your desk clean and tidy. Desk wire organizer is also suitable for use in the kitchen and outdoors.
- 【Reduce Safety Risks】Cable tray under desk keeps all plugs away from your kids, no more worry about tripping. Using 2 holes wire tray saves extra space, helps you easily cabling and wire protection. The mesh design is not easy to accumulate dust, but avoids safety accidents caused by messy wires.
Changing names on multiple maps or a cluster
Each running server instance has its own startup arguments and configuration files. If you operate separate map servers, update the instance that players are browsing; changing one file does not automatically update another instance.
Some community instructions describe linking maps with a -clusterid= argument in both the Island and Scorched Earth files. Reports about this behavior are old—one cited discussion was approximately 885 days old—and other players report that cluster transfers are unreliable. Treat cluster-wide renaming and cluster transfer behavior as unverified for the current ARK: Survival Ascended build.
Quick wins for a faster PC:
Repair Windows errors before they cause bigger problemsFix Now →Fix the driver behind crashes, sound loss and screen glitchesFind Drivers →Clear out junk files and repair common Windows errorsFree Scan →Do not change a cluster identifier merely to rename a server. A cluster identifier is a different setting, and changing it can affect how servers recognize shared cluster data. If your goal is only a new browser label, change SessionName and leave cluster settings alone.
Do not use the server-name setting for player limits
The maximum-player count is separate from SessionName. Changing the displayed name cannot increase or decrease the number of players allowed to connect.
Documentation and templates differ on how the player limit is supplied. One hosting guide uses -WinLiveMaxPlayers on the launch line, while an AMP template places MaxPlayers under [/Script/Engine.GameSession]. Because these approaches conflict and can vary by build or host template, verify the setting against your own server version and provider instructions rather than copying it into [SessionSettings].
Recommended change checklist
- Decide whether the name will be controlled by the launch line or by
GameUserSettings.ini. - Stop the server before changing either location.
- Set
?SessionName=YourNamein startup parameters, or setSessionName=YourNameunder[SessionSettings]. - Check for a conflicting launch parameter, because it overrides the INI file.
- Save the configuration and start the server.
- Search the multiplayer browser and confirm the displayed name.
- Keep a backup of the working configuration for the next update or migration.
What is and is not established about ASA server-name configuration
The SessionName syntax and the launch-parameter-over-INI precedence are consistently described by third-party hosting documentation and community configuration examples. An official Studio Wildcard document specifically confirming these ARK: Survival Ascended server-name instructions was not identified.
Recommended Free Tools
The ARK Official Community Wiki page commonly cited for SessionName describes ARK: Survival Evolved rather than confirming every ARK: Survival Ascended behavior. Its default-name example, “ARK #” followed by a number, should therefore not be treated as an ASA-specific promise.
Host panels and server builds can change their labels, generated command lines, or configuration templates. If a panel’s field conflicts with a manually edited file, inspect the command it actually launches and use that active value as the authority.
Quick Recap
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.
