Quick answer: An ARK: Survival Evolved server needs at least 8 GB RAM for small groups and 16 GB+ for larger maps with many mods. ARK is CPU-intensive – high single-core performance matters more than core count.
Find all guides for your ARK dedicated server – installation, hardware, mods, admin commands, clusters and performance.
Available guides:
- Install an ARK server
- What hardware do I need?
- Install mods
- Important commands & admin console
- Set up a cluster (multiple maps)
- Improve performance
Frequently asked questions (FAQ)
How much RAM do I need for an ARK server?
Small servers (5–10 players, one map): 8 GB RAM. Medium servers with mods: 12–16 GB. Large clusters with multiple maps and 30+ players: 16–32 GB RAM.
Can I connect multiple ARK maps?
Yes, with an ARK cluster players can transfer between maps and bring dinos/items. Our cluster guide explains the setup step by step.
Which ports do I need to open for ARK?
ARK uses UDP 7777 (game), UDP 7778 (raw socket) and TCP 27020 (RCON) by default. Clusters need separate ports for each map.