Granting administrative control on an ARK: Survival Evolved server is a fundamental step for anyone looking to manage a community-driven world. This process varies significantly depending on whether you are playing on a local server, a dedicated host, or through a third-party platform like Steam or Epic Games. Proper configuration ensures that you can implement rules, manage griefing, and maintain the integrity of your environment.
Understanding Admin Levels and Access
Before diving into the setup, it is crucial to understand how the admin system functions within ARK. The game utilizes a tiered permission structure where players are identified by either their Steam ID 64-bit number or their Epic Games account ID. The default setting grants specific commands to users listed in the admin file, while the highest level of access, often referred to as "God Mode," bypasses all survival mechanics like hunger, thirst, and damage. You must determine the level of control you wish to grant before editing configuration files.
Configuring Admin Access on a Dedicated Server
For those running a dedicated server, access is managed through the "ShooterGame.ini" configuration file. This file dictates the core rules of your server, including admin permissions. You will need to locate this file on your server directory, typically found within the "ARK" folder under "ShooterGame\Config\LinuxServer" on Linux systems or "ShooterGame\Config\WindowsServer" on Windows. Editing this file requires a basic understanding of text-based configuration to avoid server crashes.
Adding Players via Steam ID
To add a player as an admin using their Steam ID, you must first obtain the ID from the player's Steam profile. Once you have the ID, follow these steps to modify your configuration:
Open the "ShooterGame.ini" file with a text editor like Notepad++.
Locate the section labeled "[ShooterGame.GameMode]".
Add the line AdminIds=X where "X" is the 64-bit Steam ID of the player.
Save the file and restart the server for the changes to take effect.
Granting Temporary Admin Rights In-Game
If you are currently playing on the server and need to elevate a player to admin status without editing files, you can use the console command MakeAdmin [SteamID] . This command temporarily grants admin privileges until the server is restarted. For a permanent solution, you must still edit the configuration file to preserve the admin status across reboots. This method is ideal for testing new moderators or handling urgent situations.
Using the Ark Manager Interface
Many server hosting providers and custom control panels, such as ArK Manager or custom Docker solutions, offer graphical user interfaces (GUIs) to simplify admin management. These platforms often feature a dashboard where you can search for a player by username and instantly promote them to admin. This eliminates the risk of manually typing incorrect IDs and provides a more user-friendly experience for server owners who are not comfortable with direct file editing.
Setting Up Multi-Admin Configuration
It is standard practice to have multiple administrators on a server to ensure coverage and shared responsibility. The configuration for this is straightforward and follows the same rules as adding a single admin. You simply repeat the process for each unique player ID. Ensure that you trust these individuals implicitly, as they will have the power to ban players, modify game settings, and alter the world structure. Maintaining a clear chain of command among your staff is essential for server harmony.
