How to Install Mods on Your ARK: Survival Evolved Server

Introduction

Mods can enhance your gameplay experience in ARK: Survival Evolved by adding new features, structures, or mechanics. This guide shows you how to install mods on your ARK server using the -automanagedmods parameter and configuring the mods list.

Step-by-Step Guide

Step 1: Find Mod IDs

1. Visit the ARK: Survival Evolved Steam Workshop.
2. Find the mods you want to install and copy their unique Mod ID. This ID is part of the URL, for example:

   https://steamcommunity.com/sharedfiles/filedetails/?id=1234567890

   Here, 1234567890 is the mod ID.
3. Note all the Mod IDs you want to install.

Step 2: Add Mods to the Mods Line

1. Log in to your server via the control panel or FTP.
2. Locate the file GameUserSettings.ini, typically found in:

   ShooterGame/Saved/Config/LinuxServer

   or

   ShooterGame/Saved/Config/WindowsServer

3. Open the file with a text editor.
4. Find the line starting with ActiveMods=. If it doesn’t exist, add it under the [ServerSettings] section.
5. Add the Mod IDs, separated by commas:

   ActiveMods=1234567890,9876543210,1122334455

   Replace the IDs with the mods you want to install.

Step 3: Add the -automanagedmods Parameter

1. Go to your server's startup settings or command-line configuration.
2. Add the parameter -automanagedmods to the server’s startup parameters. This ensures the server automatically downloads and updates mods.
3. An example of a complete startup command:

   ./ShooterGameServer TheIsland?listen?SessionName=MyServer -automanagedmods -server -log

Step 4: Restart the Server

After configuring the mods list and adding the parameter, restart your server:

1. Log in to your control panel.
2. Click "Restart" to apply the changes.

During the restart, the server will automatically download the specified mods from the Steam Workshop and install them.

Step 5: Verify Mod Installation

1. Log in to your server and check that the mods are working as expected.
2. Any new features from the mods should now be available in the game.

Troubleshooting

If the mods are not working correctly, check the following:

• Are the mod IDs correctly added to the ActiveMods line?
• Is the -automanagedmods parameter correctly added to the startup settings?
• Did you restart the server after making changes?
• Check the server's log files for error messages related to mod installation.

If issues persist, you can contact your hosting provider's support team.

Important Notes

• Ensure all players have the same mods installed to avoid compatibility issues.
• Keep your mods updated by regularly restarting the server with the -automanagedmods parameter.
• Only add mods from reliable sources like the Steam Workshop to avoid stability issues on your server.

For more guides and support, visit our Support Knowledgebase.