Playing Ark: Survival Evolved is an exhilarating experience, especially when you can dive into the vibrant world of dinosaurs, crafting, and adventures with friends. One of the best ways to ensure that you have control over your gameplay experience is to connect to private servers directly. This guide will walk you through the process of directly connecting to an Ark server, maximizing your fun while minimizing technical headaches.
Understanding Ark Servers
Before we delve into the steps for direct connection, it’s crucial to comprehend what Ark servers are. Servers in Ark: Survival Evolved are essentially game instances that allow players to join together in a shared world. There are two primary types of servers:
Official Servers
These are run by the game developers and are available to any player. They adhere to specific rules, and your progress is preserved across sessions. However, players may find limitations in terms of gameplay rules and modifications.
Private Servers
Private servers offer more flexibility. Players can adjust settings, mods, and game rules to create tailored experiences that suit their group’s preferences. Connecting directly to these servers can significantly enhance your gaming experience while providing control over the environment you play in.
Why Direct Connection?
Connecting directly to an Ark server has several advantages:
- Control Over Settings: Private servers allow for unique gameplay settings, including resource availability and creature spawn rates.
- Improved Stability: A direct connection often leads to better ping and fewer lag issues, especially when playing with friends.
- Community Creation: Private servers can cultivate a sense of community among players, leading to long-lasting friendships and improved teamwork.
Preliminary Steps Before Direct Connection
Before you connect to an Ark server, ensure that you have completed the following preliminary steps:
1. Install the Game
Ensure you have Ark: Survival Evolved installed on your device. You can find it on platforms like Steam, Xbox, or PlayStation.
2. Acquire Server Details
To connect directly to a private server, you need the following information from the server owner:
- Server Name: The display name of the server.
- IP Address: A numeric string identifying the server’s location on the internet.
- Port Number: This number helps direct your game to the specific instance of the server.
- Password (if applicable): Some servers require a password for entry to maintain privacy and security.
Step-by-Step Guide to Directly Connect to an Ark Server
With the essential information gathered, it’s time to dive into the step-by-step process of connecting directly to an Ark server.
For PC Users
1. Launch the Game
Open Ark: Survival Evolved from your preferred gaming platform.
2. Access the Main Menu
Once the game loads, you will be presented with the main menu. Look for the option labeled “Join Ark” and click on it.
3. Click on “Join Direct Connect”
In the “Join Ark” menu, select “Join Direct Connect.” This option allows you to input the server details directly into the game.
4. Enter Server Information
In the provided fields, enter the following information:
- IP Address: Type the server IP into the Address field.
- Port Number: The standard port number is typically 7777, but confirm with your server owner.
After entering the details, it should look like this:
| Field | Example Input |
|---|---|
| IP Address | 192.168.1.1 |
| Port Number | 7777 |
If a password is required, there will be an additional input field for that.
5. Click “Join”
After carefully entering the details, click the “Join” button to initiate the connection. You might see a loading screen as the game prepares to connect you to the server.
For Console Users
1. Start the Game
Begin by launching Ark: Survival Evolved on your console platform.
2. Navigate to the Main Menu
As with PC, find the option labeled “Join Ark” in the main menu.
3. Select “Join Direct Connect”
In the game menu, look for the option to connect directly. On consoles, this may be slightly hidden, but it usually appears alongside other browsing options.
4. Input Server Details
Just like on the PC, you will need to input the server’s IP address, port number, and password if required.
5. Initiate Connection
Select the appropriate button to connect to the server.
Troubleshooting Connection Issues
Even with everything set correctly, connection issues can sometimes arise. Here are some common troubleshooting tips:
1. Check Server Status
Before you change anything on your end, verify whether the server is currently active or undergoing maintenance. You can often find this information through your gaming community or on the server provider’s website.
2. Verify Server Details
Double-check the IP address, port number, and potentially the password to ensure they are input accurately. A minor error can prevent you from connecting.
3. Look Out for Firewall or Anti-virus Issues
Sometimes firewalls or anti-virus software can block your connection. Ensure that Ark: Survival Evolved is allowed through your security software.
4. Use a Stable Internet Connection
Ensure you are connected to a stable internet source. Consider switching from Wi-Fi to a wired connection if frequent disconnections happen.
Modifying Your Experience on a Private Server
Once you successfully connect to an Ark server, various modifications can enhance your experience significantly. Here are some possibilities:
1. In-Game Settings
If you are an owner or administrator of the server, consider adjusting the following settings:
- Taming Speed: Increase taming speed to make acquiring dinosaurs more accessible.
- Resource Availability: Alter how quickly resources regenerate, allowing players to gather materials faster.
2. Adding Mods
To diversify gameplay, consider adding mods that change mechanics or introduce new features:
- Structures Plus (S+): Enhances building mechanics.
- ARK Eternal: Adds new creatures and characters while enhancing gameplay.
Consult the server owner or documentation for the specific steps to install and enable mods.
Conclusion
Directly connecting to an Ark server provides an immersive and tailored experience that elevates your gameplay to new heights. By following the guide outlined in this article, you can enjoy seamless gameplay with friends, dive into exciting adventures, and explore the wonders of Ark: Survival Evolved like never before. Remember that customizing your journey with server settings and mods can lead to more engaging and memorable experiences as you survive and thrive among prehistoric giants. So gather your resources, tame your creatures, and prepare for thrilling escapades in the world of Ark!
What is direct connecting to an Ark server?
Direct connecting to an Ark server refers to the process of joining a specific game server for the game Ark: Survival Evolved without having to search through the server list. Instead of browsing, players can enter the server’s IP address and port number directly into the game. This allows players to quickly access private or dedicated servers that might not be visible in the general server list.
Using direct connection can be particularly useful for players who want to join a friend’s server or a community server that is not commonly listed. It streamlines the process and reduces the time spent searching for the correct server. Additionally, if the server has a unique configuration or mod, direct connection ensures you’re joining the right environment.
How do I find the IP address and port number of an Ark server?
To find the IP address and port number of an Ark server, you must first obtain the information from the server host or community website. Typically, server administrators will provide these details on forums, Discord servers, or their official websites. The IP address is usually a string of numbers in the format “xxx.xxx.xxx.xxx”, and the port number usually follows the IP with a colon (e.g., “xxx.xxx.xxx.xxx:port”).
If you’re trying to connect to a friend’s server, ask them to share their server information. Alternatively, if you are using a dedicated server provider, they will often have a control panel where you can view your server’s information. Keep in mind that the default port for Ark servers is 7777, but this may vary depending on specific setups or modifications done by the server host.
What are the steps to direct connect to an Ark server?
To direct connect to an Ark server, launch the game and navigate to the main menu. From there, click on ‘Join Ark’ and then select the ‘Join a specific server’ option. You will see a prompt to enter the server’s IP address and port number; make sure to input them correctly. After entering the required information, click the ‘Join’ button to establish the connection.
If the server is set up correctly and running, you should be able to join the game almost instantly. However, if you encounter any issues, double-check the IP address and port number for errors. Make sure the server is online, and confirm with the administrator that you have the right connection details, as sometimes updates can affect server availability.
Why can’t I connect to the Ark server directly?
There could be several reasons why you cannot connect to an Ark server directly. One of the most common issues is that the server may be offline or not started. If the server host has not launched the server, you will not be able to connect, regardless of whether you have the correct IP address and port number. Reaching out to the server administrator can help clarify the server’s status.
Another potential issue is network restrictions, such as firewalls or router configurations, which can block the connection. Make sure to check your firewall settings or consult your router documentation to ensure that the necessary ports are open and that there are no restrictions preventing the game from connecting online. It’s often a good idea to run network troubleshooters to diagnose any underlying network problems.
Can I join a private Ark server with direct connection?
Yes, you can join a private Ark server using direct connection, provided you have the correct IP address and port number. Private servers are often created for a specific group of players, such as friends or community members, and direct connection allows you to rapidly access these restricted areas without needing to search through public servers. Some private servers might require you to enter a password, so ensure you have that information ready.
Keep in mind that joining a private server usually involves adhering to any specific rules or settings defined by the server host. These can include specific mods, configuration settings, or gameplay mechanics that differentiate them from official servers. If you wish to join a private server with your friends, make sure to communicate any necessary details to ensure a smooth connection process.
What are the benefits of direct connecting to an Ark server?
Direct connecting to an Ark server offers several advantages, including quicker access to specific servers without the need for tedious browsing. This is especially convenient for players who have a favorite server or want to participate in a particular community. By using direct connection, you minimize waiting times and streamline the joining process, allowing more time for gameplay and exploration.
Additionally, direct connecting can prevent you from joining unofficial or undesirable servers that might show up in the general list. Players can have more control over their connection experience, ensuring they are playing on a secure and trusted server. This control adds to a better overall gaming experience, as it allows players to target specific communities or friends directly.
What should I do if the server is full and I cannot connect?
If you find that the Ark server is full when attempting to connect, there are a couple of actions you can take. First, you may want to try again later, as server status can change rapidly—players may leave, allowing you space to join. Many servers have a player cap, so patience might be your best option if it’s a popular server.
Alternatively, you can contact the server administrator to express your interest in joining. Sometimes, server administrators can make adjustments to accommodate players or provide updates about expected availability. Another option is to explore other servers with similar settings or gameplay styles, as there may be less populated alternatives that fit your gaming preferences.