Check the box if you want to limit access, though being on LAN inherently restricts outside players. Enter a server password if desired, then click Accept . 🔌 Step 4: How Clients Connect to the LAN Server
[/Script/Engine.GameSession] MaxPlayers=10
Before launching the game, you must ensure your hardware and network configurations are ready. Hardware Requirements
If you want to get playing immediately without dealing with server files, use this method. On the Host PC: Launch . Click on Host / Local from the main menu.
Dedicated: Turns the PC into a pure server; the host cannot play from this instance. how to play lan ark survival evolved exclusive
Set your Non-Dedicated Host Tether Distance to a high number (e.g., 99.0) to prevent friends from being pulled back to you when they travel too far. Click Accept and start the session.
provides a more stable experience without "tethering" issues where players are forced to stay near the host Method 1: The "Easy" Way (Non-Dedicated Session) This is best for 2–4 players who plan to stick together. Host Setup Launch ARK and click Host/Local from the main menu Adjust your game settings and select Host Non-Dedicated Multiplayer Session Set a session name and an optional password. Joining Players From the main menu, click Change the "Session Filter" (bottom left) to Non-Dedicated Sessions Find the host's session name and click : Guest players are restricted by a tether distance
You need to know the host computer's local IP address (e.g., 192.168.1.XX). PC Setup via In-Game Menu
By setting up a dedicated LAN server, you and your friends can enjoy a truly private and unrestricted, "exclusive" ARK: Survival Evolved experience. If you'd like, I can: Check the box if you want to limit
This is the built-in, fast-setup option. One player acts as both the host and a player simultaneously.
Also, Share public link
Friends can join by going to , changing the Session Filter to Non-Dedicated Sessions , and selecting your session. Method 2: Dedicated LAN Server (True "Exclusive" Setup)
Once you have your LAN server running, here is how the experience differs from Official servers: Hardware Requirements If you want to get playing
A dedicated server removes the "tethering" restriction and allows the server to run independently of the player's game client. How to play on LAN with my son :: ARK - Steam Community
Ensure all computers are connected to the same router (via Ethernet is best).
This is the most common point of failure. The host machine must allow traffic through specific ports.
This is the fastest way to play with friends on the same network. The host's computer runs both the game and the server. : Open ARK: Survival Evolved on the host PC.