Setting up a LAN session in ARK: Survival Evolved provides a stable, private environment often referred to as "exclusive" play. While the Non-Dedicated method offers simplicity, it imposes a tether restriction on players. The Dedicated Server method requires manual port configuration and firewall management but offers the highest quality multiplayer experience. By adhering to the protocols outlined above regarding network discovery, port forwarding exceptions, and IP connectivity, users can successfully establish a persistent world independent of official server infrastructure.
: Connect all PCs to the same network router via RJ45 Ethernet cables or high-speed Wi-Fi. Hardwired connections are strongly recommended to maximize packet stability.
| Step | Action | | :--- | :--- | | | 1. Download and install ARK Server Manager from a trusted source. 2. Launch ASM. It will automatically prompt you to set a Server Installation Directory (where the server files will live) and a Backup Location . 3. Click the big Install button to let ASM download the latest dedicated server files from Steam via SteamCMD. This will take some time. | | Step 2: Initial Configuration | 1. Click the + (plus) icon in the top-left corner to create your first server profile. 2. Navigate to the General tab. Here you set the Server Name (make it unique so you can find it), Password , Map , and any Mod IDs (from the Steam Workshop) you wish to use. | | Step 3: Network & Ports | 1. Go to the Network tab. For a LAN-only server , the default ports are usually fine. You can ignore any "Port Forwarding" options, as those are for making the server public online. 2. Ensure that your Windows Firewall allows the ShooterGameServer.exe through. ASM often handles this for you automatically. | | Step 4: Advanced Rules | 1. Explore the Settings tab. This is where you can fine-tune every game rule: Taming Speed, XP Multiplier, Harvest Amount, Day/Night Cycle , difficulty offset, and much more. 2. You can save different "Settings Presets" for different types of games (e.g., a "Hardcore PvP" or a "Casual Builder" preset). | | Step 5: Launch and Connect | 1. Click the large Start button on the toolbar. The console window will pop up and show the server as it loads. Wait for it to finish initializing, which can take several minutes. 2. Launch ARK on any other PC on your network, go to Join ARK , and filter the session list by LAN or Unofficial . Your server should appear. If not, use Steam's server browser by going to View > Game Servers > Favorites > Add A Server and entering your host machine's local IP address . |
Playing ARK: Survival Evolved exclusively over LAN is an incredibly rewarding experience. Whether you choose the for a casual evening or invest the time to set up a powerful Dedicated Server for a persistent, tether-free world, you'll have the ultimate control over your dinosaur adventure. Gather your tribe, pick a method, and start building your legacy today! how to play lan ark survival evolved exclusive
Set a session name and password (optional, as only people on your local network can typically see it). : Go to Join ARK . Change the Session Filter (bottom left) to LAN . Select the host's session and click Join .
How to Play ARK: Survival Evolved LAN Exclusive Playing ARK: Survival Evolved via a Local Area Network (LAN) allows you to enjoy a private prehistoric world with friends or family on the same Wi-Fi without the lag of public servers. Setting this up depends on whether you want a quick session or a more stable, permanent server environment. 1. The Quickest Way: Non-Dedicated Sessions
Are you playing the or the Xbox/Windows Store crossplay edition ? Share public link Setting up a LAN session in ARK: Survival
✅ No tethering, full map freedom, and low latency.
Which are you using? (Steam, Epic Games, or Xbox/Windows Store) Do you plan to use mods from the Steam Workshop? Share public link
: Turn off the Windows Public Firewall temporarily on both machines to test if a port is blocked. By adhering to the protocols outlined above regarding
This is the easiest method for a small group (2-4 players) already in the same house. It turns your single-player world into a temporary LAN server. : From the main menu, select Host/Local . Choose your map and customize your settings. Click Host Non-Dedicated Session .
Click , then select New Rule on the right panel. Choose Port and click Next .
The fastest way to play exclusively over LAN is by hosting a directly from your main gaming rig. Step 1: Configure the Host Machine Launch ARK: Survival Evolved . Click Host / Local from the main menu.
A dedicated server runs as a separate background process. This eliminates the player tether entirely, allowing everyone to explore the map independently. Step 1: Open the Correct Ports