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Getting Started with ARK: Survival Ascended

This guide walks you through setting up your ARK: Survival Ascended server and connecting for the first time.

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Step 1: Access Your Server

  1. Log in to the Game Panel
  2. Select your ARK: Survival Ascended server
  3. Wait for the initial installation to complete
First-time installation takes 20-30 minutes due to the large game files. Be patient and don’t restart during installation.

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Step 2: Configure Startup Settings

Go to the Startup tab to configure your server’s basic settings:
VariableDescriptionDefault
Server NameName shown in server browserA Vexium Hosting Server
Server MapWhich map to runTheIsland_WP
Max PlayersMaximum players allowed70
Server PasswordPassword to join (empty = public)Empty
Admin PasswordPassword for admin/RCONCHANGEME
Server PvE1 = PvE, 0 = PvP1 (PvE)
BattlEyeEnable anti-cheat1 (enabled)
Auto UpdateUpdate server on restart1 (enabled)

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Available Maps

MapValue
The IslandTheIsland_WP
Additional maps will be added as they release. Check the Startup tab for the latest available maps.
Important: Change your Admin Password from CHANGEME before making your server public! This password is used for RCON and in-game admin commands.

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Step 3: Start Your Server

  1. Go to the Console tab
  2. Click Start to launch your server
  3. Wait for the message: Waiting commands for 127.0.0.1:
  4. Your server is now online!
First startup takes longer as the server generates world data. Subsequent starts are faster.

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Step 4: Connect to Your Server

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Method 1: Server Browser

  1. Launch ARK: Survival Ascended
  2. Go to Join Game
  3. Set filters to show Unofficial servers
  4. Search for your server name
  5. Select and click Join

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Method 2: Direct Connect (Steam)

  1. Open Steam
  2. Go to View → Servers
  3. Click Favorites → Add Server
  4. Enter your server IP:Port (find in Game Panel Network tab)
  5. Connect from the server list

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Method 3: In-Game Console

  1. Launch ARK
  2. Press Tab or ~ to open console
  3. Type: open YOUR_SERVER_IP:PORT
  4. Press Enter

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Step 5: Become Admin In-Game

Once connected, claim admin privileges:
  1. Press Tab to open the console
  2. Type: EnableCheats YourAdminPassword
  3. Press Enter
  4. You now have admin access!

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Useful Admin Commands

CommandDescription
EnableCheats <password>Authenticate as admin
admincheat flyEnable flying
admincheat walkDisable flying
admincheat godToggle god mode
admincheat infinitestatsUnlimited stats
admincheat giveresourcesGive resources
admincheat saveworldForce save

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Server Information

Find your connection details in the Game Panel:
  • Network tab shows your server IP and ports
  • Game Port - Main connection port
  • Query Port - Steam query (27015)
  • RCON Port - Remote console (37015)

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Next Steps

Configure Settings

Customize rates, rules, and gameplay

Add Mods

Install mods from CurseForge