If you’re diving into the prehistoric survival world of ARK: Survival Evolved, you’ve likely come across the terms dedicated and non-dedicated servers. While both options allow you to play with friends online, they differ significantly in how they work and what kind of experience they offer. For casual gamers or those just looking to explore ARK’s vast landscapes with a few friends, hosting a non-dedicated server may be the perfect fit. In this article, we’ll explore everything you need to know about what is hosting a non dedicated servers in ARK: what they are, how to set one up, their pros and cons, and how they compare to dedicated servers.
What is a Non-Dedicated Server in ARK?
A non-dedicated server in ARK is a multiplayer session hosted by one of the players on their own machine (typically a PC or console). Unlike a dedicated server which runs independently of the host player, a non-dedicated server is tied directly to the game session of the person hosting.
This means the host:
- Must be online for others to join.
- Acts as the central player around whom others must stay within a certain proximity (known as the tether distance).
- Is responsible for game performance, stability, and availability.
Key Features of a Non-Dedicated Server
Here are some defining characteristics of a non-dedicated server in ARK:
1. Tether Distance
This is one of the biggest limitations. Players who join a non-dedicated session must stay within a set distance of the host. If they move too far away, they’ll be teleported back or experience lag issues. This limits exploration and can be frustrating for larger maps.
2. Local Hosting
The server is run on your personal device. There’s no need for external hosting services or rental fees, making this a cost-free option for multiplayer gameplay.
3. Save Progress Locally
Game progress is saved on the host’s machine. If the host deletes their save files or uninstalls the game, the world is lost.
4. Performance Dependent on Host
Since the game and server run on the same system, performance is heavily influenced by the host’s hardware. Lag, crashes, and slowdowns are more likely on lower-end devices.
What is Hosting a Non Dedicated Server in ARK: Step-by-Step Guide
How to Host a Non-Dedicated Server in ARK
Hosting a non-dedicated session is quite simple and doesn’t require technical knowledge.
For PC:
- Launch ARK: Survival Evolved.
- Click on “Host/Local” on the main menu.
- Adjust settings like map, difficulty, mods, and other preferences.
- Make sure “Non-Dedicated” is selected.
- Click “Host Non-Dedicated Session.”
- Invite your friends via Steam or Epic Games (depending on your platform).
For Xbox/PlayStation:
- Start ARK and go to “Host/Local.”
- Adjust your settings.
- Start the game.
- Use your platform’s invite feature to bring in friends.
Note: Console players must have Xbox Live Gold or PlayStation Plus for online multiplayer.
Pros of Hosting a Non-Dedicated Server
1. No Cost
You don’t need to rent a server or pay monthly hosting fees. It’s ideal for casual or budget-conscious players.
2. Easy Setup
No technical skills or configuration files required. Anyone can set up a server within minutes.
3. Mod and Settings Control
You have full control over mods, difficulty, player count, and in-game rules.
4. Great for Small Groups
Perfect for 2–4 friends who want to explore together without needing a full-time server.
Cons of Hosting a Non-Dedicated Server
1. Tethering Limit
Players can’t explore freely without being close to the host. This can be restrictive on large maps.
2. Always Requires the Host
If the host is offline, the game world is unavailable. Your friends can’t play without you.
3. Performance Issues
The server shares resources with the game client, which can lead to lag or crashes, especially on lower-end systems.
4. No 24/7 Uptime
Unlike dedicated servers, your world is only active when the host is playing.
Non-Dedicated vs. Dedicated Server: What’s the Difference?
| Feature | Non-Dedicated | Dedicated |
|---|---|---|
| Cost | Free | Paid or self-hosted |
| Tether Limit | Yes | No |
| Host Dependency | Required | Not needed |
| Performance | Medium | High (with good specs) |
| Accessibility | Local only | 24/7 access |
| Ideal For | Small friend groups | Communities, large groups |
If you plan to play regularly or want full map freedom, a dedicated server might a better fit. For a more robust experience, many players turn to third-party hosts like Oudel, known for reliable and affordable ARK server hosting.
Tips for a Better Non-Dedicated Server Experience
- Increase Tether Distance (PC only): Use launch commands or INI tweaks to raise the limit.
- Use a Strong Host Machine: More RAM and CPU = smoother gameplay.
- Regular Backups: Manually back up your save files to avoid losing progress.
- Communicate with Friends: Coordinate play sessions so everyone’s available.
- Keep Mods Light: Too many mods can overwhelm your system.
Final Thoughts
Hosting a non-dedicated server in ARK is a fantastic way for casual gamers and small friend groups to enjoy the game together without spending money. While it comes with limitations—most notably the tethering and dependency on the host—it’s still a practical solution for many players.
However, if you outgrow its limitations or want more control and uptime, consider upgrading to a dedicated server through a provider like Oudel.com, where you’ll get excellent performance at an affordable rate.
