If your ARK server won’t start or stops immediately, use these steps to find and fix the issue.
Step 1: Read the Web Console
Start the server and open the Web Console. Look for errors like missing maps, mod load failures, or INI syntax issues.
Step 2: Validate Files
Click Update Server Files to verify and download missing content via SteamCMD.
Step 3: Test Without Mods
Clear ActiveMods in GameUserSettings.ini, restart, and confirm the vanilla server launches.
Step 4: Re-add Mods Gradually
Add mods back in small batches until you find the one that breaks startup.
Step 5: Check INI Formatting
Ensure there are no stray characters, tabs, or duplicate sections in your INIs.
Step 6: Reinstall (Last Resort)
Use Reinstall Server to refresh core files. Your INIs can be kept if you choose not to wipe.
Notes
We support hosting and startup issues only. Mod author issues or broken custom INIs are outside our scope. Always back up before reinstalling.
