Server Settings & Modding (Unofficial Servers)

Learn how to set up and customize your own Ark: Survival Evolved unofficial server. We'll guide you through choosing a host, accessing files with FileZilla, and tweaking your .ini settings.

So, you're thinking about running your own Ark server? Awesome! Unofficial servers give you the reins to create the Ark experience you've always wanted. Let's break down how to get one up and running. ## What is an Unofficial Server? Basically, these are privately owned servers that anyone can join. Someone else (the server owner, or admin) pays a hosting company to keep the server running, and in return, they get to set all the rules and customize the game just how they like it. ## Getting Your Own Unofficial Server ### Choosing a Host This is your first big step. There are tons of hosting companies out there, each with different prices and features. Usually, you pay based on 'slots,' which is how many players can be online at once. More slots mean more server power, and a higher cost. Also, think about where the server is located – picking a location closer to you and your friends can really cut down on ping and lag. ### Creating and Launching Your Server Each hosting service has its own way of setting things up, so follow their instructions carefully. Usually, you won't need to install anything yourself since the host provides the software. Take some time to explore your server's control panel; get familiar with all the options available. ## Accessing Your Server Files Alright, this part can get a little technical, so pay attention! It's a good idea to be comfortable with basic computer file management before you dive in, as messing up your server files can cause problems. We'll be using FileZilla, a popular FTP program, for this on Windows. ### Download FileZilla FileZilla is how we'll connect to your server remotely to edit its files. You can grab it for free from Filezilla-Project.org. Just follow their installation guide. ### Connecting to Your Server Through FileZilla Once FileZilla is installed, you'll need some info from your hosting provider. It's usually found in your control panel: | Field | Information Needed | | :-------- | :----------------------------------------------------- | | Host: | Your server's IP address (e.g., 172.16.254.1) | | Username: | Your hosting service account username | | Password: | Your hosting service account password | | Port: | The specific port number shown in your control panel | With that info, open FileZilla, fill in the details, and hit Quickconnect. ## Customizing Your Server (INI File) ### Finding Your .ini File In FileZilla, navigate to the `ShooterGame\Saved\Config\WindowsServer` folder. You're looking for a file named `Gameserversettings.ini`. ### Adding Your Customized Settings Right-click on `gameserversettings.ini` and choose 'view/edit.' This opens the file in a text editor. Don't delete anything that's already there! Just add your custom server settings below the existing ones. Once you're done, go to 'File' and hit 'Save.' Confirm by clicking 'Yes' when asked. ### Restart Your Server After saving your changes, you'll need to restart your server for them to take effect. You can usually do this through your hosting provider's control panel.