Free tools Windows power users keep installed
One-click scans. No signup required.
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
To host an ARK: Survival Evolved dedicated server in 2026, use a 64-bit Windows or Linux machine, install the Survival Evolved server with SteamCMD app ID 376030, launch ShooterGameServer with your map and settings, then allow and forward the configured UDP ports. The server becomes usable only when the game settings, operating-system firewall and router forwarding agree. This guide covers installation, first launch, public connectivity, administration, backups, updates and the differences that matter between Survival Evolved and Survival Ascended.
What you need before installing
Use the correct ARK edition
This guide is for ARK: Survival Evolved (SE). Its dedicated-server files, Steam application ID and launch options are not interchangeable with ARK: Survival Ascended (SA). In particular, do not paste an Ascended startup command or application ID into an Evolved installation. The ARK Official Community Wiki server-configuration reference documents the distinction between the two products.
| # | Preview | Product | Price | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 |
|
ARK: Survival Evolved - PlayStation 4 | $12.20 | Buy on Amazon |
| 2 |
|
Ark: Survival Evolved Plush - Poop | Buy on Amazon | |
| 3 |
|
The unofficial ARK Survival Evolved Guide incl. Add-ons up to Genesis Part1 | $16.99 | Buy on Amazon |
| 4 |
|
ARK: Survival Evolved Pins - Dodo | $11.99 | Buy on Amazon |
| 5 |
|
ARK: Survival Evolved Pins - Rex | $11.99 | Buy on Amazon |
Choose a 64-bit host
Survival Evolved has native dedicated-server support on 64-bit Windows and Linux. A desktop that is switched off when nobody is playing is fine for a private group; a machine that stays online is more appropriate for a public community. Keep the server process on a wired network when possible, and give the host a stable local IP address so router rules do not point at a different device after a reboot.
Plan CPU, memory and storage
The ARK Official Community Wiki describes roughly two logical CPU cores per server instance, with strong single-thread performance preferred. That is planning guidance, not a universal minimum: a large map, extensive world activity, many players or several instances can require more. Memory consumption changes substantially with map and concurrent players, so do not choose RAM from a single fixed number.
#1 Best Overall
- Capture and Tame Dinosaurs: Discover over 100 different dinosaurs and prehistoric creatures on the island, finding ways to tame them into useful additions for your tribe's dino herd
- Survive Above All: Hunger, thirst, basic safety, and protecting yourself from the weather are all part of the game
- Harvest, Hunt and Build: Cut down trees and turn them into a basic home, which you can quickly expand into a Jurassic estate. Hunt for meat, scavenge for plants (or start your own garden!)
- Customize Everything: An extensive crafting system invites you to mix and match materials scavenged from the island, while also modifying the colors, textures, shapes, and styles
- Explore the Island: Solve the mystery of The ARK as you explore this massive island, discovering Explorer's Notebooks (filled with clues!) throughout
The same guide estimates about 18 GiB for a base server installation. Reserve additional capacity for save files, SteamCMD updates, logs, workshop content and temporary files. Mods can add both download size and runtime memory use. Leave free space rather than filling the volume to its advertised capacity; an update that cannot unpack is effectively an outage.
| Planning item | What the available guidance establishes | How to use it |
|---|---|---|
| Architecture | 64-bit Windows or Linux | Do not install on a 32-bit operating system. |
| CPU | Approximately two logical cores per instance; single-thread speed matters | Increase CPU headroom for additional instances or busy worlds. |
| Base disk footprint | Approximately 18 GiB for the installation | Add room for saves, updates, logs and mods; it is an estimate, not a guaranteed minimum. |
| Memory | Varies with map and active players | Measure your actual workload and keep operating-system headroom. |
Install the Survival Evolved server files
1. Install SteamCMD
SteamCMD is Valve’s command-line installer. Install the build for your operating system from its normal distribution method, then create a directory dedicated to this server. Avoid placing the server inside a personal game-library folder that is routinely cleaned or synchronized.
- On Windows, use a path such as
C:ARKServerand extract SteamCMD somewhere you can run it as the account that will operate the server. - On Linux, use a directory such as
/opt/ark(or another location owned by a dedicated service account), and ensure that account can write both the installation and save directories.
2. Download app ID 376030
Run SteamCMD with the Evolved dedicated-server application ID. The following pattern installs or updates the files in the directory you specify:
The Tool Desk
Outbyte Driver Updater FREEFix the driver behind crashes, sound loss and screen glitchesFind Drivers →Outbyte PC Repair FREEClear out junk files and repair common Windows errorsFree Scan →steamcmd +force_install_dir <install_dir> +login anonymous +app_update 376030 +quitReplace <install_dir> with the absolute path you selected. The important value is 376030; other ARK products use different application IDs. SteamCMD may need to be installed separately before this command works.
3. Check the downloaded layout
After a successful run, locate ShooterGameServer below the installation’s ShooterGame/Binaries directory. Windows uses the Win64 executable; Linux uses the Linux binary. If the binary is absent, SteamCMD was pointed at the wrong directory, the download did not finish, or a different app ID was used. Correct that before writing a launch script.
Create a startup script
A script makes restarts repeatable and keeps the settings that players depend on in one place. At minimum, specify a map, a session name and the network/query values you will later open in the firewall and router. Add a join password only if you want to restrict entry, and always make the administrator password different.
Rank #2
- Official ARK: Survival Evolved licensed merchandise, turning one of ARK's best-known running jokes into a plush
- Approximately 5.1 x 5.1 in (13 x 13 cm) - small enough to sit on a desk or monitor stand
- Soft filled construction that keeps its shape on a shelf
- Works as the punchline alongside the rest of an ARK plush collection
- A gag gift for ARK players and survival game fans
Windows example
Save a file such as start-ark.bat beside your server tools. This example uses The Island and illustrative values; change the names, passwords and player limit for your community.
@echo off
cd /d C:ARKServerShooterGameBinariesWin64
ShooterGameServer.exe TheIsland?listen?SessionName=MyEvolvedServer?ServerPassword=JoinPassword?ServerAdminPassword=AdminPassword?Port=7777?QueryPort=27015?MaxPlayers=20 -server -logSessionName is the name players search for. ServerPassword is the password for joining, while ServerAdminPassword is reserved for administrator commands; never publish the latter. Port carries game traffic and QueryPort is used for server-browser queries. Keep the session name simple while testing so punctuation or shell quoting cannot obscure a networking problem.
Linux example
Save an executable shell script such as start-ark.sh, use the Linux binary, and run it from the directory containing the binary:
#!/bin/bash
cd /opt/ark/ShooterGame/Binaries/Linux
./ShooterGameServer TheIsland?listen?SessionName=MyEvolvedServer?ServerPassword=JoinPassword?ServerAdminPassword=AdminPassword?Port=7777?QueryPort=27015?MaxPlayers=20 -server -logMake it executable with chmod +x start-ark.sh. For unattended operation, run it under a service manager or a terminal multiplexer so it can restart after maintenance, but first confirm that a manual launch reaches the map-selection and listening stages without errors.
Keep launch settings compatible
Use options documented for Survival Evolved. Copying a parameter from an Ascended guide can result in an ignored setting or a server that fails to start. The configuration reference is the appropriate place to verify an option before adding it. Change one setting at a time and retain a known-working script so you can undo a bad edit.
Recommended Free Tools
Open the firewall and forward the router
A server can be running locally and still be invisible to everyone else. The host firewall must allow the listening ports, and the router must forward those same ports from the public interface to the host’s fixed LAN address. Forward only the ports you configured.
| Purpose | Default port for one instance | Protocol | Required? |
|---|---|---|---|
| Game traffic | 7777 | UDP | Yes for the default launch |
| Peer traffic | 7778 | UDP | Yes for the default launch |
| Steam server-browser query | 27015 | UDP | Yes for normal discovery and favorites |
| RCON administration | 27020 | TCP | Optional; expose only when you deliberately enable and secure it |
These defaults are listed in the ARK Official Community Wiki dedicated-server setup. If your script uses another game or query port, substitute that value in every firewall and forwarding rule. A second instance needs its own non-conflicting port assignments and a separate installation or configuration arrangement.
Windows Firewall example
Run PowerShell as an administrator and create inbound rules for the UDP ports:
New-NetFirewallRule -DisplayName "ARK SE game and query" -Direction Inbound -Protocol UDP -LocalPort 7777,7778,27015 -Action AllowIf you intentionally use RCON, create a separate TCP rule for its configured port and limit the source addresses where your firewall allows that level of control. Do not open broad ranges simply because a guide for another ARK edition lists them.
What’s actually slowing this PC down?
Pick the symptom - the matching free tool is one click away.
Linux firewall example
On a Linux host using UFW, the equivalent rules are:
sudo ufw allow 7777/udp
sudo ufw allow 7778/udp
sudo ufw allow 27015/udpAdd a TCP rule for RCON only when needed, and check any cloud-provider security group in addition to UFW. A cloud firewall, home router and operating-system firewall are separate layers; all three must permit the traffic.
Router forwarding checklist
- Reserve the server computer’s LAN address in the router’s DHCP settings, or configure a carefully managed static address.
- Create forwarding entries for UDP 7777, 7778 and 27015 to that LAN address. Use the same internal and external ports unless you have a specific reason not to.
- If RCON is enabled, forward its TCP port only to the administration host or trusted network rather than exposing it broadly.
- Save the router configuration and confirm that the host firewall rules are active.
Some internet connections use carrier-grade NAT, which means the router does not receive a directly reachable public IPv4 address. If local tests succeed but no outside player can connect despite matching rules, compare the router’s WAN address with the address visible from the internet and ask the ISP whether inbound hosting is available. Changing unrelated game settings will not solve a reachability problem at that layer.
Rank #4
- Official ARK: Survival Evolved licensed merchandise, featuring the Dodo sculpted in textured iron
- Compact pin measuring about 1.6 in (4 cm) across and 0.5 in (1.2 cm) thick - light enough for caps, denim and tote bags
- Raised, textured surface gives the design real depth instead of a flat printed look
- Made in Japan - the pin back attaches securely and sits flat without dragging the fabric down
- A gift for ARK players, survival game fans, and dinosaur enthusiasts
Start the server and verify that players can find it
- Run the Windows batch file or Linux script and wait for the server to finish loading the selected map. Keep the console open during the first launch so errors are visible.
- From the same network, test a local connection if possible. This separates a bad launch or save from an internet-forwarding issue.
- From an outside connection, search the in-game unofficial-server list for the exact session name. Discovery can take time; a delayed result is not proof that the process failed.
- Add the public address and query port to Steam’s server favorites when you need a direct test. Use the query port, normally UDP 27015, rather than the game port.
- Join with the join password, if configured. Keep the administrator password private and test an administrative login separately.
The dedicated-server guidance notes that visibility depends on the address, forwarding, firewall and matching configuration. Check those in that order before changing maps, mods or unrelated startup options.
Quick wins for a faster PC:
Fix the driver behind crashes, sound loss and screen glitchesFind Drivers →Clear out junk files and repair common Windows errorsFree Scan →Scan for outdated or missing drivers - takes under a minuteDriver Scan →Configure and administer the world safely
Separate player access from administration
A join password controls who can enter; an administrator password grants elevated commands. Use different, long values and do not place the administrator password in a public chat, screenshot or shared configuration repository. Give trusted operators access through a controlled process rather than distributing the file indiscriminately.
Make changes in a controlled cycle
- Tell players that maintenance is starting and stop the server cleanly.
- Copy the current save before changing configuration or installing a mod.
- Change one setting, start the server and watch the console for errors.
- Join as a test player, verify the intended behavior, then announce the change.
- If the result is wrong, stop the process and restore the previous setting or save instead of stacking more changes on top.
Platform-specific configuration files are stored under the server’s ShooterGame/Saved tree. Keep a note of which file and launch argument supplies each setting; otherwise a value in a script can appear to contradict a value in a configuration file.
Use logs as your first diagnostic
Launch with the logging option shown in the examples and retain console output around crashes, failed joins and updates. Record the date, map, player count, mod changes and the exact error text. A short, reproducible change history is more useful than repeatedly reinstalling the server.
Update the files without losing the world
Stop the running process before updating. Then rerun the same SteamCMD pattern, including the Evolved app ID:
steamcmd +force_install_dir <install_dir> +login anonymous +app_update 376030 +quitStart the server again and watch for a clean map load. Schedule updates when players are offline, because a build change can require clients to update before they can join. Do not change to an alternate branch as a routine update. The setup documentation describes a separate preaquatica branch procedure and compatibility warning; treat a branch change as a deliberate migration, verify that the required client build matches, and protect the saves first.
Best Value
- Official ARK: Survival Evolved licensed merchandise, featuring the Tyrannosaurus sculpted in textured iron
- Compact pin measuring about 1.6 in (4 cm) across and 0.5 in (1.2 cm) thick - light enough for caps, denim and tote bags
- Raised, textured surface gives the design real depth instead of a flat printed look
- Made in Japan - the pin back attaches securely and sits flat without dragging the fabric down
- A gift for ARK players, survival game fans, and dinosaur enthusiasts
Back up saves and recover from mistakes
The critical game and player data is in ShooterGame/Saved and its contents. Copy that directory to a different destination on a schedule that matches how much progress your community can afford to lose. For a consistent snapshot:
- Announce a short maintenance window and stop the server cleanly.
- Copy
ShooterGame/Savedto a dated backup directory on another disk or machine. - Check that the copy contains files and that its size is plausible rather than assuming a failed copy succeeded.
- Restart the server and periodically test that an older backup can be read.
An external SSD is an optional physical destination for these copies, not a requirement for hosting. Keep at least one backup separate from the server so a disk failure, accidental deletion or bad update does not remove both the live world and its only recovery copy.
Run more than one instance
Each instance needs its own process, save location and non-conflicting network ports. Give every instance enough CPU, memory and disk headroom; the approximate two-logical-core planning figure applies per instance, and actual memory use still depends on map and player activity. Create separate scripts so a restart of one world cannot accidentally launch another world’s settings. Document which public port belongs to which session and test each query port independently.
Windows 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 reinstallOutdated 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 matchTroubleshoot the common failures
| Symptom | Likely check | Corrective action |
|---|---|---|
| The process exits immediately | Executable path, map name, permissions or an invalid option | Run the command in the binary directory, read the console error, verify that the Evolved executable and a supported launch option are being used. |
| Players on the same LAN can join, outsiders cannot | Router forwarding, host firewall, public address or carrier-grade NAT | Confirm the LAN target, protocols and ports; test from a genuinely external connection and check whether the ISP permits inbound traffic. |
| The server is running but absent from the unofficial list | Query port, firewall rule, search delay or session-name mismatch | Wait for discovery, add the public address with the query port to Steam favorites, and compare the script with every forwarding rule. |
| Players connect and then disconnect | Client/server build mismatch, overloaded host or a blocked peer port | Update the server and clients to the compatible build, inspect CPU/memory pressure and verify UDP 7778 as well as the game port. |
| A password is rejected | Join password versus administrator password, or a stale script | Use the join password for entry, keep the administrator value separate, and restart after confirming which script is actually running. |
| A save appears to have rolled back | Wrong save directory, abrupt shutdown or an old restore | Stop cleanly, verify the active installation path, inspect timestamps and restore the newest known-good copy of ShooterGame/Saved. |
| An update fails for lack of space | Base installation estimate did not include saves, mods or temporary files | Free capacity or expand the volume, then rerun SteamCMD and confirm the save backup remains separate. |
Self-hosting or managed hosting?
Self-hosting gives you direct control over the operating system, files, startup options and network, but you are responsible for patching, backups, uptime and port forwarding. A managed service can remove some machine and network administration, but its actual limits vary. Compare a provider’s current documentation rather than assuming that every plan supports your map, mods or player load.
| Decision axis | Questions to ask before committing |
|---|---|
| Administration | Who installs and updates the server files and operating system? Can you restart it and inspect logs? |
| Resources | What CPU performance, memory and storage are assigned to the chosen map and expected player count? |
| Network | Is the server publicly reachable, which player platforms are supported, and can you set the required ports? |
| Backups | Are saves copied automatically, how often are they retained, and can you download your own files? |
| Control | Can you edit configuration files, choose startup options, install mods and use administrative tools? |
| Cost and terms | What is the current price and billing period, what feature limits apply, and how does cancellation work? |
Choose self-hosting when you already control a suitable always-on machine and are comfortable with networking and maintenance. Choose a managed arrangement when reducing operating-system and router work is worth the provider’s recurring charge and any limits on access. In either case, keep an independent copy of ShooterGame/Saved.
If you would rather skip port forwarding and machine upkeep, Godlike.Host offers ARK: Survival Evolved server hosting with its own game panel, a task scheduler, SFTP/FTP access and up to three free backups a day with restore. Setup takes minutes after payment; see the current plans for details.
Security and maintenance checklist
- Use a separate operating-system account or service identity for the server where practical.
- Keep Windows or Linux patched, but schedule operating-system restarts around player activity.
- Use unique join and administrator passwords; never reuse an administrator password from another service.
- Expose only the game, peer and query ports you actually use. Keep RCON disabled unless you need it, and restrict its TCP access.
- Record the server’s install path, active map, ports, backup destination and last successful restore test.
- Update with SteamCMD app ID
376030, then verify that the process loads the intended map before inviting players back. - Review disk space, CPU, memory and save-copy age regularly; resource pressure is configuration-dependent rather than represented by one universal RAM number.
The 2026 setup in one sequence
Install a 64-bit Windows or Linux host, reserve roughly 18 GiB for the base files plus growth, and download the Survival Evolved dedicated server with SteamCMD app ID 376030. Build a repeatable ShooterGameServer script, keep the join and administrator passwords separate, allow and forward the configured UDP ports, and test both local and external connections. Once players can find the session, make backups of ShooterGame/Saved before updates or configuration changes, and treat any Survival Ascended or alternate-branch instructions as a different compatibility path rather than a drop-in replacement.
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.
