How to join a non dedicated server in ark on pc a complete guide to non-dedicated hosting, LAN play, and quick joins

Yes, you can join a non-dedicated server in Ark on PC by hosting a local/non-dedicated session or by joining a friend’s session from the main menu. This guide breaks down how non-dedicated servers work, how to host and join them, and how to troubleshoot common issues. You’ll get step-by-step instructions, quick-start checklists, and practical tips so you can play with friends without renting a full dedicated server.

Useful URLs and Resources: Apple Website – apple.com, ARK Official Wiki – ark.fandom.com, Steam Community Hub – steamcommunity.com, ARK Survival Evolved Official Site – survivors-ark.com, Steam Support – steamcommunity.com/app/etrial, ARK Server Manager – arkservermanager.github.io, Port Forwarding Guide – portforward.com

Introduction
Yes, hosting a non-dedicated ARK session on PC is simple and you don’t need a separate server box. This guide covers how to host a non-dedicated session, how friends can join across the internet, how to configure ports, and how to troubleshoot common problems. We’ll also compare non-dedicated play versus a full dedicated server and share practical tips for smooth online co-op play.

What you’ll learn in this guide:

How non-dedicated hosting works in ARK
Step-by-step hosting on PC and joining from another PC
Port forwarding basics and NAT considerations
Tools to manage non-dedicated sessions in-game options, ARK Server Manager
Common issues and quick fixes
Advanced tips for stable online play and backups

Body

Table of Contents

What is a non-dedicated ARK session?

A non-dedicated session lets you host a game from your PC that other players can join without renting a dedicated server.
The server runs only while the host PC is on; performance depends on your hardware, network connection, and map size.
Non-dedicated sessions are ideal for casual co-op with friends, LAN play, or quick testing without extra costs.
Pros: easy setup, no server rental, real-time admin control. Cons: depends on host PC, potential performance issues with larger groups, needs port forwarding for internet play.

Quick-start: host a non-dedicated session on PC

Follow this quick path to get into a non-dedicated game fast:

Open Ark and go to the main menu.
Choose Host/Local.
Select your map the map you want to play and the difficulty settings you prefer.
Turn on Non-Dedicated server if you want guests to join from the internet or leave it off for local LAN only.
Set a password if you want to restrict access, or leave it blank for open join.
Start the session and note the server name and IP address shown by the game.

Tips for a smooth host experience:

Use a wired ethernet connection if possible to reduce latency.
Close bandwidth-heavy apps on the host PC to preserve game performance.
Consider enabling a password to prevent random players from joining and spoiling the game.

How to join a non-dedicated ARK session step-by-step

Joining steps depend on whether you’re joining from the host’s LAN or via the internet:

From the main menu, click Join ARK.
For friends on your local network: look under the Friends tab if their session is visible and click to join.
For internet play non-dedicated: use Join IP or join by searching for the host in the Friends/Non-Dedicated list if the host has made it visible.
If you know the host’s IP and port: choose Join IP and enter IP:Port default port is usually 7777; if you use a custom port, use that.
If prompted for a password, enter the one the host set.
Wait for the connection to finish loading and confirm you’re in the same map and server.

In-game tips:

If you can’t see the host, ask them to double-check: a the Non-Dedicated toggle is on, b port forwarding is correctly configured, c there’s no firewall blocking ARK, d both clients are on the same game version.

Port forwarding and NAT considerations

Without proper port forwarding, hosts on the internet may be unreachable. Here’s a practical overview: How To Change Your Discord Server Location A Step By Step Guide

Primary game port: UDP 7777 this is the main ARK port used for game traffic.
Query/steam port: UDP 27015 used by ARK for server queries and listing.
Optional secondary ports: some setups may require 7778/27016 for additional connections or second server instances; check your router and ARK setup if you’re running multiple sessions.
NAT type matters: Open NAT or at least Moderate improves connectivity; Strict NAT makes joining difficult.
How to forward:
- Find your router’s admin page usually at 192.168.0.1 or 192.168.1.1.
- Locate Port Forwarding or Applications/Port Forwarding.
- Add rules for UDP ports 7777 and 27015 and 7778/27016 if you’re using them to the host PC’s local IP.
- Save and reboot the router if required.
UPnP: If your router supports UPnP and it’s enabled, ARK can auto-forward ports in many cases. If not, manual forwarding is typically required.

Common NAT/Firewall checks:

Ensure Windows Firewall or your security software isn’t blocking ARK.
If using a VPN, disable it for the ARK session or properly configure it to allow LAN/Local traffic.
Confirm both players’ firewalls allow ARK and the required ports.

Tools to manage non-dedicated sessions

In-game Host/Local menu: Quick and easy control for map, difficulty, and session visibility.
ARK Server Manager ASM: A Windows tool to create, schedule, and manage ARK servers including non-dedicated sessions. Great for backups, mods, and automating restarts.
Steam features: If you’re running through Steam, you can leverage Steam to find friends’ sessions or use the “Join IP” option in ARK with the host IP.
Backups: Regularly back up your character and save data ARK uses .ark and save files to reduce data loss risk from crashes.

Practical server configuration tips non-dedicated

Password protection: A simple way to keep unwanted players out while you’re playing with friends.
Server name: A clear, friendly server name helps friends find you quickly.
Map and difficulty: If you’re new to ARK, start with easier settings to reduce the learning curve for guests.
Creature difficulty, XP, and tamed dino limits: Tuning these helps balance the game for guests and prevents one-player dominance.
Auto-backups: In ASM or in-game config, set auto-backups to protect your progress.

Common config snippets for GameUserSettings.ini or Game.ini:

AlwaysAllowCaveShares=False
DifficultyOffset=0.5
ServerPassword=”yourpassword”
ServerMaxPlayerCount=8
PreferredServerInstance=NonDedicated
Note: Adjust values to match your map and hardware capabilities. Use the in-game options as a quick-start method, then refine via config files.

Advanced hosting options: ARK Server Manager and LAN play

If you want a more controlled non-dedicated experience:

Install ARK Server Manager ASM on a Windows PC.
Create a new server instance using the ARK: Survival Evolved game executable.
Choose Non-Dedicated mode and set ports, map, difficulty, and admin password.
Use ASM to schedule restarts, apply updates, and manage backups.
For LAN play only, you can use the “LAN” option in ARK’s host menu and keep the server local; for internet play, enable non-dedicated with port forwarding.

LAN vs internet play quick comparison:

LAN: No port forwarding required; all players on the same network can join easily.
Internet: Requires port forwarding and a public IP or dynamic DNS if your IP changes; more setup but lets friends join from anywhere.

Common issues and quick fixes

Issue: Friends cannot find your server.
- Fix: Ensure non-dedicated is on, confirm port forwarding, share the exact server name or IP, and verify you’re on the same ARK version.
Issue: Connection timed out.
- Fix: Check firewall rules, ensure NAT type is not Strict, restart router, restart ARK host session.
Issue: Password doesn’t work.
- Fix: Double-check caps and spaces; ensure you’re entering the correct password from the host.
Issue: Ping/latency is high.
- Fix: Use a wired connection, reduce background traffic, consider moving to a closer region or reducing server load.
Issue: Players on remote networks can join but experience rubber-banding.
- Fix: Lower server creature/dino counts, adjust tick rate, ensure stable network quality.

Quick-start checklist one-page reference

Decide on LAN or internet play.
Host a non-dedicated session Host/Local and enable Non-Dedicated if internet play is desired.
Set a server password if hosting publicly.
Forward UDP ports 7777 and 27015 and 7778/27016 if applicable on your router to the host PC.
Confirm firewall rules allow ARK traffic.
Share the server name or IP with friends and have them join via IP or Friends list.
Consider using ASM for long-term hosting, backups, and easy management.
Regularly back up your saves to avoid progress loss.

Map, mods, and version considerations

When using mods, ensure all players have the same mods installed and enabled in the same order on the host and clients.
If you’re playing on a beta/experimental build, all players must be on the same version to join.
ARK updates can reset or affect non-dedicated sessions; plan maintenance windows accordingly.

Safety, etiquette, and best practices

Communicate guest rules password sharing, allowed dinos, building permissions to keep the session enjoyable.
Use a server password to control who can join and keep your session stable.
Save progress often and back up regularly, especially before making big changes to the server settings.

Troubleshooting quick-reference table

Symptom: Cannot join host’s session
- Likely cause: Port forwarding or firewall block; please verify network settings.
Symptom: Host cannot see friends in the lobby
- Likely cause: NAT type or router settings; ensure UPnP is enabled or manually forward ports.
Symptom: Disconnects during loading
- Likely cause: Version mismatch; ensure all players have the same ARK version and mod list.
Symptom: Server appears offline
- Likely cause: Host PC sleeping or ARK crash; ensure host keeps the session active and check for crashes in the ARK logs.
Symptom: Laggy gameplay with many dinos
- Likely cause: Too many entities; adjust creature count settings in GameUserSettings.ini.

When to switch from non-dedicated to a dedicated server

If you’re hosting a growing group or planning long-term campaigns, a dedicated server offers better stability and performance.
Dedicated servers can run 24/7 with automatic backups; non-dedicated sessions are best for casual, short-term play.
You can start with non-dedicated to test ideas, then migrate to a dedicated server later using the same world saves.

Common configuration presets to try starting points

Beginner co-op preset:
- XP_multiplier=1.0
- DinoDamageMultiplier=0.75
- PlayerCharacterDamageMultiplier=1.0
- DifficultyOffset=0.2
Casual explorer preset:
- WildDinoDamageMultiplier=0.8
- TamingSpeedMultiplier=1.0
- StructureResistanceMultiplier=0.8
PvP-friendly settings with consent:
- AllowTribeWar=true
- PvP=true
- ServerPassword=””

Compatibility and cross-play notes

Ark on PC supports cross-play across Steam users who are on the same platform and same version; ensure you and your friends are updated to the same patch level.
If you’re sharing the world across platforms, confirm server settings and mod compatibility are aligned.

Final tips for a smooth non-dedicated experience

Keep your host PC on a stable power source; avoid sleep or hibernation during play.
If you’re hosting with friends far away, a small upgrade to upload bandwidth can drastically improve performance.
Use a clean, minimal mod list to reduce conflict and maintenance.
Document server rules and keep a shared note for everyone joining password, map, major rules, and a contact path.

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How does a non-dedicated server differ from a dedicated server in ARK?

A non-dedicated server runs on the host’s PC and only while that PC is on; a dedicated server runs on a separate machine 24/7. Non-dedicated is easier to set up and cheaper for small groups, but it’s less stable for long sessions or many players compared to a dedicated server.

Can I play with friends who are not on the same network?

Yes, with non-dedicated hosting, you can allow internet joins by forward ports and using the host’s public IP or dynamic DNS. It’s more reliable with proper port forwarding and a stable connection.

Do I need to port forward to join a non-dedicated ARK session?

If you’re joining over the internet, yes. The host should forward UDP ports 7777 and 27015 and 7778/27016 if used to their PC. LAN connections don’t require port forwarding.

What ports should I open for ARK non-dedicated hosting?

Commonly 7777 UDP game, 27015 UDP query. If you’re using additional instances, you may need 7778 UDP and 27016 UDP as well. Check your router’s configuration if you run multiple sessions.

How do I find my friend’s non-dedicated ARK session?

Your friend should share the server name and IP/port. In ARK, you can join via Join IP or look for their session under the Friends/non-dedicated list if it’s visible. The Ultimate Guide To Understanding The R6 Discord Server

Can I password-protect a non-dedicated session?

Yes. In the Host/Local menu, you can set a server password. Share the password only with invited players.

What if I can’t connect after updating ARK?

Ensure all players are on the same version, mod list if mods are used matches exactly, and ports are properly forwarded. Restart clients and the host session.

How can I improve performance on a non-dedicated session?

Use a wired connection, reduce the number of dinos or players if possible, lower non-essential in-game settings, and consider hosting on a PC with better CPU/RAM. ASM can help manage resources and restarts.

Is it possible to switch from non-dedicated to dedicated mid-game?

Yes, you can migrate a saved world from a non-dedicated session to a dedicated server by exporting the save files and importing them into a new dedicated server setup.

What are recommended settings for new players?

Start with a small group, a lower creature count, and moderate XP. Avoid aggressive PvP settings if you’re new. Use password protection to prevent interruptions by strangers. How to reindex a table in sql server step by step guide

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