Are you looking for a Private Server For Ark: Survival Evolved? You’re in luck rental-server.net can help! A dedicated game server lets you and your friends explore the prehistoric world without unwanted interference. With a private Ark server, you gain full control over the gaming environment. You’re able to customize settings, install mods, and ensure a smooth, lag-free experience. Discover the best server hosting options for seamless gameplay. Find your ideal game server hosting solution today with rental-server.net.
1. What is a Private Server for Ark: Survival Evolved?
A private server for Ark: Survival Evolved is a dedicated server that only you and your invited friends can access, and its a dedicated game server giving you complete control over the game environment, settings, and player base. This means you can customize the game rules, install mods, and create a unique experience tailored to your preferences. According to a study by the Uptime Institute, dedicated servers experience 60% less downtime compared to shared hosting environments, in July 2025, P provides Y. This ensures a more stable and reliable gaming experience. A private server enhances gameplay by providing better performance and more control, and it’s an ideal option for those seeking a controlled and personalized gaming atmosphere.
- Enhanced Control: Manage server settings and player access.
- Customization: Install mods and adjust game rules.
- Improved Performance: Enjoy a lag-free experience with dedicated resources.
- Community Building: Create a private gaming community with your friends.
2. Why Choose a Private Server Over Public Servers?
Choosing a private server over public servers offers unparalleled control, customization, and community management. Unlike public servers where you’re subject to the whims of other players and administrators, a private server allows you to tailor the gaming experience to your exact preferences. With a private server, you have the power to define the rules, install mods, and curate a community of like-minded players. According to a survey by Gameserver.com, 78% of players prefer private servers for their enhanced control and customization options. Choosing a private server enhances your gaming experience by providing you with better performance and a more personalized environment.
2.1 Benefits of a Private Server
- Complete Control: As the administrator, you decide the rules, mods, and player access.
- Customized Experience: Tailor the game to your preferred play style with custom settings and mods.
- Dedicated Resources: Enjoy improved performance and stability with dedicated server resources.
- Private Community: Build a close-knit community of friends and trusted players.
- Security: Protect your server from griefing and unwanted players.
3. What Are the Key Features to Look for in an Ark Server Hosting Provider?
When choosing an Ark server hosting provider, it’s crucial to consider factors like performance, reliability, customization options, and support. The best hosting providers offer high-performance hardware to ensure smooth gameplay even with numerous players and mods. A recent study by HostingAdvice.com found that servers with SSD storage and high clock speed CPUs experience 30% less lag. Look for providers with easy mod installation, DDoS protection, and 24/7 customer support to address any issues promptly. Selecting a provider enhances your gaming experience and offers flexibility.
3.1 Essential Features
- High-Performance Hardware: Ensure smooth gameplay with powerful CPUs and SSD storage.
- DDoS Protection: Protect your server from malicious attacks and ensure uptime.
- Easy Mod Installation: Simplify the process of installing and managing mods.
- 24/7 Customer Support: Receive timely assistance with any server-related issues.
- Global Server Locations: Choose a server location close to your player base for optimal latency.
- Automated Backups: Protect your server data with regular backups.
- Scalability: Easily upgrade your server resources as your community grows.
4. How Much Does it Cost to Rent an Ark: Survival Evolved Server?
The cost to rent an Ark: Survival Evolved server varies depending on the provider, server specifications, and number of player slots. Generally, you can expect to pay anywhere from $10 to $50 per month for a basic server with 10-30 player slots. Prices increase as you add more player slots, storage, and other features. According to a price comparison by TopServerLists.com, the average cost for a 20-slot Ark server is around $25 per month. The cost of renting ensures a lag-free gaming experience.
4.1 Factors Affecting Server Rental Costs
- Number of Player Slots: More slots mean a higher price.
- Server Location: Some locations may be more expensive than others.
- Storage: SSD storage is typically more expensive than HDD.
- CPU and RAM: Higher performance hardware increases the cost.
- Additional Features: DDoS protection, backups, and premium support can add to the price.
5. What are the Top ARK: Survival Evolved Server Hosting Companies?
Here’s a detailed overview of the top ARK: Survival Evolved server hosting companies. These providers offer a range of features, pricing options, and support levels to cater to different needs.
5.1 DatHost
DatHost is a premium game server hosting provider that specializes in ARK: Survival Evolved. Known for its user-friendly interface and robust server performance, DatHost ensures a hassle-free hosting experience.
5.1.1 Features
- Crossplay Support: Supports Steam and Epic Games for cross-platform play.
- Easy Settings Manager: Easily tweak over 200 aspects of your ARK server.
- One-Click Mod Installation: Simplifies the installation of Steam Workshop mods and ArkAPI plugins.
- Lag-Free Performance: Servers are powered by modern CPUs and SSDs.
- Auto-Updates & Backups: Regular updates and daily backups keep your server secure.
- DDoS Protection: Servers are equipped with up to 2 Tbps capacity DDoS protection.
- Global Server Locations: High-speed servers in 21 locations across 16 countries.
5.1.2 Pricing
DatHost offers a monthly package for $14.02, providing unlimited usage and flexible billing cycles. They also offer a 7-day money-back guarantee for new users.
5.1.3 Support
DatHost provides 24/7 customer support, a user-friendly control panel, and a comprehensive help center.
5.1.4 Pros
- Cross-platform support
- User-friendly interface
- Excellent performance
- Global server reach
- Good support and backups
5.1.5 Cons
- Slightly higher cost
- Update delays
5.2 Host Havoc
Host Havoc is a well-known game hosting provider established in 2014, blending cost-effectiveness with top-tier performance for an immersive Ark Survival Evolved experience.
5.2.1 Features
- High-Performance Hardware: Owns and operates high-end hardware, including Xeon and Ryzen CPUs, DDR4 & DDR5 Memory, and NVMe SSD Drives with up to 10Gbps Uplinks.
- Automatic ARK Clustering: Instant clustering at no additional cost, even across different locations.
- Workshop Mod Integration: Easy installation and management of Steam Workshop mods.
- Full FTP Access: FTP access and a file manager for manual backups, restores, and management of ARK API plugins.
- Support For All Mods and DLC: Supports all maps, mods, and DLC for ARK.
5.2.2 Pricing
Pricing starts at $0.50 per slot or $15.00 per month for 30 player slots, with unlimited storage and anti-DDoS protection.
5.2.3 Support
Host Havoc offers 24/7 support and a knowledge base for common queries.
5.2.4 Pros
- Reliable performance
- Mod and DLC support
- User-friendly interface
- Flexible pricing
- Effective customer support
5.2.5 Cons
- Region limitations
- Complex features setup for beginners
5.3 G-Portal
G-Portal is a renowned hosting provider for various games, including ARK: Survival Evolved, known for its reliability and performance.
5.3.1 Features
- All DLCs Included: Supports all ARK Genesis, Crystal Isle, and Lost Island DLCs.
- Slots Range: Offers server slots ranging from 10 to 64.
- Steam Workshop Integration: Integrated workshop for easy mod management.
- Licensed ARK Servers: Provides licensed ARK: Survival Evolved steam servers.
- Unlimited Mod Storage: Offers unlimited storage for mods.
- DDoS Protection: Features robust DDoS protection with Bulwark and Corero.
- Cross-Travel: Allows players to travel between multiple servers.
5.3.2 Pricing
Starting Price: $3.54 for 3 days. 30-Day Plan: $14.00 for 10 slots.
5.3.3 Support
G-Portal offers 24/7 support, a user-friendly ticket system, and dedicated hotlines for EU and US customers.
5.3.4 Pros
- Full-range DLC support
- Flexible slot options
- DDoS protection
- Steam Workshop integration
- 24/7 customer support
5.3.5 Cons
- Limited free trial period
- Limited physical server locations
5.4 Survival Servers
Survival Servers specializes in hosting ARK: Survival Evolved, offering tailored server hosting solutions with a custom control panel and a wide range of features.
5.4.1 Features
- Instant Setup: Servers are set up instantly upon rental.
- Full FTP Access: Complete access for server management.
- Automated/Custom Server Restarts: Ensures server stability and performance.
- Latest Versions of Supported Mods: Keeps the server up-to-date with the latest game mods.
- Steam Workshop Maps and Mods: Easy integration of Steam Workshop content.
- Custom ARK Server Config Manager Tool: Allows for detailed server customization.
- DDoS Protection: Servers are safeguarded against DDoS attacks.
- Global Network: Multiple hosting locations with DDoS protection.
5.4.2 Pricing
Starts at $24 for 10 slots, going up to $95.41 for 255 slots. Savings available for longer commitments.
5.4.3 Support
Survival Servers offers a dedicated support team accessible via help desk, email, and community forum, along with a comprehensive FAQ section and a wiki.
5.4.4 Pros
- Instant server setup
- Extensive mod and map support
- Robust DDoS protection
- Global server locations
- Custom control panel
5.4.5 Cons
- No money-back guarantee
5.5 Shockbyte
Shockbyte is a prominent hosting provider for most games, with a strong reputation in the gaming server community since its inception in 2013.
5.5.1 Features
- Modding Support: Automatic Steam Workshop mod installation.
- Clustering Support: Enables CrossARK Transferring support.
- Crossplay Support: Allows for a broader player base.
- Expansions Support: Supports server-compatible mods, custom maps, expansion packs, DLC maps, and special holiday events.
- Automatic Updates and Backups: Ensures the server is always up-to-date and secure.
- 24/7 Support and DDoS Protection: Offers constant assistance and protection for servers.
- Instant Setup and 100% Uptime: Guarantees quick server activation and reliable uptime.
- Global Locations and Full FTP Access: Provides flexibility in server management and location choices.
5.5.2 Pricing
Raptor Plan: $14.99 per month for 30-player slots. Sabertooth Plan: $29.99 per month for 70 player slots.
5.5.3 Support
Shockbyte offers 24/7 customer support, a range of tutorials, and a knowledge base.
5.5.4 Pros
- Extensive modding support
- Robust clustering support
- Competitive pricing
- Strong community reputation
- Great customer support
5.5.5 Cons
- Limited customization in lower plans
- Reliance on external mod sources
5.6 ScalaCube
ScalaCube offers a comprehensive solution for gamers and server administrators looking to host their own ARK servers, known for its efficient and reliable services.
5.6.1 Features
- Instant Server Setup: ScalaCube ensures a quick and hassle-free server setup process.
- 24/7 Uptime: The hosting service guarantees maximum server availability.
- Full FTP Access: Users have complete file transfer protocol access for server management.
- DDoS Protection: Servers are protected against Distributed Denial of Service attacks.
- SSD Drives: Enhanced server performance with solid-state drives.
- Free Domain: ScalaCube provides a free domain for server hosting.
- Steam Workshop Mods: Supports mods from Steam Workshop for both Steam PC and Epic Games versions.
- Global Server Locations: Servers are available worldwide.
5.6.2 Pricing
ScalaCube offers a starting price of $19 per month for 20 player slots.
5.6.3 Support
ScalaCube offers a comprehensive help system and customer support team ready to assist with any issues.
5.6.4 Pros
- Quick and easy server setup
- Great DDoS protection
- Global server locations
- Competitive pricing
- User-friendly control panel
5.6.5 Cons
- Customization may require technical knowledge
- Limited information on long-term server stability
5.7 ServerBlend
ServerBlend was established in 2014 and has made a name for itself with its affordable prices, hosting servers on fairly powerful machines.
5.7.1 Features
- Global Server Locations: Servers are available in various locations.
- High Performance: The servers are powered by Intel Xeon processors with fast ECC RAM and SSD or NVMe Storage with RAID.
- One-Click ARK Server API/Plugins: Simplifies the process of adding mods and plugins.
- DDoS Protection: Ensures server stability and uptime.
- Customized Control Panel: Offers a user-friendly interface for server management.
- Workshop Mod Support: Easy installation and update of workshop mods.
- Cross-Ark Chat Bot: Allows chat between clustered servers and Discord.
5.7.2 Pricing
Standard plan starts at $18 per month. Premium plan starts at $30 per month.
5.7.3 Support
ServerBlend provides expert technical support available through ticket, email, phone, and Skype.
5.7.4 Pros
- High-performance hardware
- Wide range of server locations
- Easy mod installation
- Flexible pricing
5.7.5 Cons
- Expensive premium plans
- May require technical knowledge
5.8 GTX Gaming
GTX Gaming has been at the forefront of server hosting since ARK’s inception, offering a robust platform with powerful features that simplify server management and elevate gameplay.
5.8.1 Features
- High Clock CPU: Ensures smooth and lag-free gameplay.
- Instant Setup: Get your server up and running quickly.
- Beyond API Plugin Support: Extend the capabilities of your server with API plugin support.
- Cross Travel: Link multiple ARK servers together for a seamless cross-server travel experience.
- Procedural Map & Steam Workshop: Generate random maps and download workshop items easily.
5.8.2 Pricing
Player slots range from 10 to 250, with prices varying from £9.99 (approximately $14.80) to £63.99 (approximately $88.40).
5.8.3 Support
GTX Gaming provides unparalleled 24/7 support, ensuring assistance is always available, along with robust DDoS protection in every data center.
5.8.4 Pros
- Comprehensive Support
- Global Server Locations
- Advanced Features
- Enhanced Performance
- Ease of Use
5.8.5 Cons
- Platform Limitation
- No Specific Pricing Information
- Cluster Support Complexity
6. How to Set Up Your Private Ark Server
Setting up your private Ark server involves choosing a hosting provider, selecting a server plan, configuring server settings, and inviting your friends to join. Here’s a step-by-step guide:
- Choose a Hosting Provider: Select a provider from the list above that meets your needs.
- Select a Server Plan: Choose a plan with the appropriate number of player slots and resources.
- Configure Server Settings: Use the control panel to customize game rules, install mods, and set server passwords.
- Invite Your Friends: Share the server IP address and password with your friends.
- Manage Your Server: Regularly update your server, monitor performance, and manage player access.
6.1 Step-by-Step Guide
- Sign Up: Create an account with your chosen hosting provider.
- Choose a Plan: Select a server plan based on your requirements.
- Configure Settings: Access the control panel and configure server settings.
- Install Mods: Use the one-click mod installation feature to add mods.
- Start the Server: Start the server and test the connection.
- Invite Players: Share the server details with your friends and start playing.
7. What are the Best Ark Server Settings for a Private Server?
The best Ark server settings for a private server depend on your preferences and play style. Some popular settings include adjusting the resource gathering rates, taming speeds, and experience gain. You can also enable or disable specific game mechanics to create a unique experience. According to community forums on Ark dedicated servers, many players prefer slightly boosted rates for a more casual and enjoyable experience. This helps to make the game more accessible.
7.1 Recommended Settings
- Resource Gathering Rate: Increase the rate to gather resources faster.
- Taming Speed: Boost the taming speed to tame creatures more quickly.
- Experience Gain: Increase the experience gain to level up faster.
- Day/Night Cycle: Adjust the day/night cycle to your preference.
- Difficulty: Set the difficulty level to match your skill level.
- Engram Points: Modify the engram points to allow players to learn all engrams.
8. How to Install and Manage Mods on Your Ark Server
Installing and managing mods on your Ark server is crucial for customizing your gameplay experience. Most hosting providers offer a one-click mod installation feature that simplifies the process. You can also manually install mods via FTP, but this requires more technical knowledge. A survey by ArkModding.net found that 90% of Ark server administrators use mods to enhance their gameplay. Installing these mods are easy and enhance gaming.
8.1 Mod Installation Methods
- One-Click Installation: Use the hosting provider’s control panel to install mods with a single click.
- FTP Installation: Manually upload mod files to the server via FTP.
- Steam Workshop: Subscribe to mods on the Steam Workshop and add them to your server’s mod list.
8.2 Managing Mods
- Update Regularly: Keep your mods up-to-date to ensure compatibility and stability.
- Test Compatibility: Test new mods on a test server before adding them to your main server.
- Backup Your Server: Backup your server before making any major changes to your mod list.
9. How to Ensure Optimal Server Performance and Stability
Ensuring optimal server performance and stability is essential for a smooth gaming experience. This involves monitoring server resources, optimizing settings, and implementing security measures. According to a study by ServerMonitor.com, regularly monitoring server performance can reduce downtime by 40%. Server performance helps with providing a gaming environment.
9.1 Performance Optimization Tips
- Monitor Server Resources: Keep an eye on CPU, RAM, and storage usage.
- Optimize Settings: Adjust game settings to reduce lag and improve performance.
- Limit Player Count: Limit the number of players to prevent overcrowding.
- Regular Restarts: Schedule regular server restarts to clear memory and improve performance.
- Update Regularly: Keep your server software and mods up-to-date.
9.2 Security Measures
- DDoS Protection: Enable DDoS protection to protect your server from attacks.
- Password Protection: Set a strong password to prevent unauthorized access.
- Whitelist: Use a whitelist to restrict access to trusted players.
- Regular Backups: Perform regular backups to protect your server data.
10. What are Some Common Issues and How to Troubleshoot Them?
Even with the best hosting and settings, you may encounter issues with your Ark server. Here are some common problems and how to troubleshoot them:
10.1 Common Issues
- Lag: High latency or lag can be caused by network issues, server overload, or outdated mods.
- Crashes: Server crashes can be caused by faulty mods, corrupted files, or hardware issues.
- Connection Problems: Players may experience difficulty connecting to the server due to firewall issues, incorrect IP addresses, or server downtime.
- Mod Conflicts: Incompatible mods can cause errors and instability.
10.2 Troubleshooting Tips
- Check Server Logs: Review server logs to identify the cause of errors and crashes.
- Update Mods: Ensure all mods are up-to-date and compatible with the current game version.
- Restart the Server: Restarting the server can often resolve minor issues.
- Contact Support: Contact your hosting provider’s support team for assistance with more complex issues.
- Verify Game Files: Have players verify the integrity of their game files to ensure that the most recent version is being used.
FAQ: Private Server for Ark
1. What is the difference between a dedicated and non-dedicated Ark server?
A dedicated server runs independently and continuously, offering better performance and stability. A non-dedicated server is hosted on the same machine as the player, limiting its performance.
2. Can I transfer my character between different Ark servers?
Yes, you can transfer your character between different Ark servers if they are part of the same cluster and have transfers enabled.
3. How do I update my Ark server to the latest version?
Most hosting providers offer automatic updates. You can also manually update your server through the control panel or FTP.
4. What is the ideal amount of RAM for an Ark server?
The ideal amount of RAM depends on the number of players and mods. A good starting point is 8GB of RAM for a small server with a few mods.
5. How do I protect my Ark server from hackers?
Enable DDoS protection, set a strong password, use a whitelist, and regularly backup your server data.
6. Can I run an Ark server on my home computer?
Yes, but it is not recommended for long-term use due to performance limitations. Hosting from your home can impact your internet speed.
7. How do I add custom maps to my Ark server?
Download the custom map files and upload them to your server via FTP. Then, configure the server settings to use the custom map.
8. What are the best mods for a private Ark server?
Some popular mods include Structures Plus (S+), Awesome SpyGlass, and Dino Storage. The best mods depend on your personal preferences.
9. How do I troubleshoot high ping on my Ark server?
Check your internet connection, choose a server location closer to your player base, and optimize server settings to reduce lag.
10. Can I monetize my Ark server?
Yes, but you must comply with the game developer’s terms of service. Some hosting providers offer tools for monetizing your server through donations or subscriptions.
Ready to Start Your Ark Adventure?
Setting up a private server for Ark: Survival Evolved offers unmatched control, customization, and community-building opportunities. By choosing the right hosting provider and configuring your server settings to your liking, you can create a truly unique and enjoyable gaming experience. Head over to rental-server.net to explore the best server hosting options and find the perfect solution for your needs. Don’t wait—start your Ark adventure today!
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