Modding ARK is one of the best ways to supercharge your gameplay. No matter if you’re running from raptors or riding dinos, mods add chaos, fun, and new content to ARK: Survival Evolved and ARK: Survival Ascended that the base game just can’t deliver. But if you’re serious about customizing your world, it’s time to ditch public servers and ARK server mods on your own VPS.
This guide will walk you through ARK modding on a VPS, from installing ARK mods on a server manually or automatically to keeping them updated and running smoothly. Plus, it will show you how to avoid common server crashes and modding headaches. Let’s ride!
What are Modding ARK Servers?
Modding ARK means adding custom content to the game through community-created packages that expand or overhaul gameplay. Mods can include new dinosaurs, weapons, structures, maps, or full-scale conversions like Primal Fear or Extinction Core.
When you’re modding an ARK server, you’re essentially modifying how everyone on that server experiences the game. You can control what mods are installed, which maps are playable, whether custom rules or settings apply and how often the game updates or restarts.
Top Tip: The Steam Workshop is the main hub for downloading ARK mods. Just search, subscribe, and your client or server can fetch them.
Are There Different Servers for Modding ARK?
Yes! there are several types of servers you can use for modding ARK:
Non-dedicated servers are great for quick co-op play with a couple of friends, but they’re very limited in terms of mod support and stability.
Dedicated local servers (hosted on your own PC) give you more freedom and are perfect for testing mods or playing with a small group.
If you want full modding power, your best bet is a ARK VPS hosting or dedicated server. These give you full root access, better performance, and complete control over mod installation.
Best Mods for ARK
One of the biggest reasons players keep coming back to ARK is the thriving modding community. From minor quality-of-life tweaks to total game overhauls, best ARK mods reshape everything.
| Best Mods for ARK: Survival Evolved | Best Mods for ARK: Survival Ascended |
| Structures Plus | Better Dinos (ASA) |
| Primal Fear | Super Structures (ASA) |
| Extinction Core | Immersive Taming |
| Ark Eternal | Omega Ascended |
| HG Stacking Mod | Castle, Keeps, and Forts: Remastered |
Prerequisites: What You Need to Get Started Modding Server
Before you jump into installing mods, here’s what you’ll need:
Server Checklist for Modding Ark
- A VPS or dedicated machine (Windows or Linux)
- ARK server files (via SteamCMD or copied from Steam client)
- Server access (RDP for Windows, SSH for Linux)
- Steam account linked to Workshop
Tools & Resources for Modding Ark
- SteamCMD (for downloading mods)
- Access to your ARK mods folder:
...\ARK\ShooterGame\Content\Mods\- The Mod ID of each mod you want to install (from Steam Workshop URL)
Step-by-Step: Installing Mods on Your ARK VPS
Let’s break it down both manually and automatically.
-
Manual Installation
- Get the Mod ID:
Go to the Steam Workshop and copy the number at the end of the mod’s URL.
https://steamcommunity.com/sharedfiles/filedetails/?id=731604991 → 731604991- Use SteamCMD to Download the Mod:
steamcmd +login anonymous +workshop_download_item 346110 731604991 +quit- Move Files to Server
Copy downloaded mod files from
Steam\steamapps\workshop\content\346110\[modID] to your server’s:...\ShooterGame\Content\Mods\- Add Mod ID to GameUserSettings.ini
[ServerSettings]
ActiveMods=731604991,123456789,...- Restart Your Server
-
Automatic Installation
For Windows VPS users, tools like Ark Server Manager (ASM) make things easier:
- Install Ark Server Manager
- Download from the official site
- Install on your VPS
- Add Your Mods
- Go to the Mods tab
- Search and add mods by ID
- ASM will download and install them for you
- Configure Load Order
- Use the drag-and-drop interface to manage mod priorities
- Start Server via ASM
Why Mod Your ARK Server on a VPS?
Using a VPS gives you full control over your ARK server—no restrictions, no hand-holding. You can install any mod, customize load order, set your server’s location, and tweak settings exactly how you want. It’s powerful enough to handle massive mods like Primal Fear and Extinction Core, and you can scale resources as your server grows. You’ll also have the ability to connect with friends or community members reliably, since the VPS provides consistent uptime and access. Tools like Ark Server Manager or SteamCMD make it easy to automate updates and manage your setup. Want the best setup? Here’s how to host an ARK server like a pro.
Conclusion
Modding ARK on a VPS is the gateway to endless gameplay creativity—from crazy dinos to total overhauls. Whether you’re running a private friend group or building a Twitch community, having full modding control makes your server your world.
By following this ARK modding guide, you’ll avoid crashes, run heavy mods smoothly, and give players a memorable survival experience. Don’t be afraid to experiment, tweak, and evolve your server until it’s perfect.
