CipherNode review
A low-cost ASA host with backup and server-management tools, but limited verified game-specific detail.
Reviewed by iTechGuides Editors · Editorial team · Updated Oct 2026
CipherNode provides hosted ARK: Survival Ascended servers through a shared game-server platform, aimed at solo operators and small communities seeking a low monthly entry price. Customers select a game during checkout and manage the server through a web panel. That makes the service a practical fit for buyers who want core hosting and maintenance tools rather than a narrowly ASA-specific offering.
The published plans show Budget at $4 per month for 4 GB RAM, with NVMe Gen3 SSD storage, network-level DDoS protection, and daily backups. ARK Starter also lists 4 GB RAM, fast SSD or NVMe storage, DDoS protection, daily backups where available, and a game panel with Egg Changer. ARK Community lists 8 GB RAM at $4.67 per month and similar features; the billing cycle for that price is not specified. Plans are organized by hardware tier and location rather than game, and there is no free plan. The key cost distinction is straightforward: Budget is the lowest listed tier, while Community offers more memory.
Backup and control features are a notable part of the offer: daily automated backups, five manual backup slots, restore through the panel, SFTP, file management, startup controls, and maintenance schedules are listed. CipherNode also lists email, chat, ticket, community, and documentation support, plus a seven-day refund period. Its public order availability is reported in Dallas, although the broader service describes a single active location. Buyers who need a modest server with backup access and basic administration should consider it; communities that depend on confirmed ASA mod or cluster support should compare alternatives before choosing, since those capabilities are not established here.
CipherNode pros and cons
- Where it wins
- Budget plan starts at $4/month and includes 4 GB RAM
- Daily automated backups, five manual slots, and panel-based restore
- Includes SFTP, file management, and network-level DDoS protection
- Where it doesn't
- ASA mod and cluster support are not specified
- Daily backups are qualified as available on ARK Starter and Community
- Only one active public-order location is reported
CipherNode fact sheet, pricing and score →
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