Godlike.Host is listed first here for American Truck Simulator server hosting, with its own game panel, free DDoS protection and up to three free backups a day. The shortlist that appears repeatedly in current roundups is HostHavoc, Sparked Host, Game Host Bros, G-Portal, XGamingServer, ZAP-Hosting and xREALM. Their rankings change by month, so treat any “number one” badge as a starting point rather than proof.
For most groups, the right choice depends on four things: your actual convoy size, where players live, mod and file-management needs, and whether the advertised price includes the slots and resources you need. The prices below are snapshots from October 2026 search summaries, not verified quotes; confirm the current checkout total, renewal price, refund policy and available locations before paying.
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What an ATS server host actually provides
American Truck Simulator (ATS) multiplayer can be played through the game’s convoy system, but a rented server gives your group an always-on machine instead of requiring one player’s computer to host every session. A provider supplies a virtual or dedicated game-server instance, a control panel for starting and stopping it, storage for the server files, and a network location from which players connect.
Do these 3 things before closing this tab:
1Repair Windows errors before they cause bigger problems2Scan for outdated or missing drivers - takes under a minute3Clear out junk files and repair common Windows errorsThe official dedicated-server software is distributed by SCS Software as Steam application ID 2239530. You can install it through Steam; people who do not run the Steam desktop client can use SteamCMD instead. A host’s panel normally installs or updates this tool for you, while a self-managed VPS requires you to perform those tasks yourself.
#1 Best Overall
- Run your own haulage business which will continue to expand whilst you complete your freight deliveries overseas
- Build your own fleet of trucks, buy garages, hire drivers and manage our business for maximum profits
- Tune your vehicles to keep them in tip top condition
- Customise your transport fleet with optional lights, bars, horns and beacons
- Thousands of miles of real road networks with hundreds of famous landmarks and structures
An ATS server is not a physical product and does not require special hardware at home. It is software plus configuration files running on a rented machine. Your players still need legitimate copies of ATS, and the server must be configured with the correct game data and token.
Shortlist: hosts that recur in 2026 comparisons
The table is a research-based shortlist, not a quality ranking. “Not stated” means the available material did not establish a comparable figure; it does not mean the provider lacks the feature.
| Provider | Published price snapshot | Player information | Notable details or cautions |
|---|---|---|---|
| Godlike.Host | See the current plans. | Not stated. | American Truck Simulator server hosting with its own game panel, free DDoS protection and up to three free backups a day. |
| Game Host Bros | From $7.99 per month; one page says there are no per-slot fees. | Advertises up to 128 players. | The 128-player claim conflicts with the eight-player limit commonly associated with ATS convoy mode. Verify what mode and software the limit applies to. |
| XGamingServer | From $10 per month on AMD Ryzen 9 7950X hardware; another listing says from $7 per month with a 30% discount. | Not stated. | Conflicting entry prices may reflect different plans or a promotion. Confirm the non-promotional renewal price. |
| xREALM | From €4.99 per month. | Not stated. | DDoS protection is listed. The euro price and any regional tax or currency conversion matter if you pay from the United States. |
| ZAP-Hosting | From $7.14; a lifetime option is listed. | Not stated. | Check whether the lifetime product has the same resources, support and upgrade rules as monthly plans. |
| G-Portal | $12.52 for 30 days is shown for an eight-slot plan. | Capped at eight players per server. | The cap may suit a standard convoy but not a larger event or community. |
| HostHavoc | One review lists $10 monthly for eight slots. | Eight slots in that listing. | The same review describes a modified TCAdmin v2 panel and a 72-hour money-back guarantee. Treat both as plan-specific until confirmed. |
| Sparked Host | Not stated in the available material. | Not stated. | Appears repeatedly in 2026 roundups; obtain a current quote and verify ATS-specific limits. |
Community recommendations are different again: the Truck Simulator fandom wiki names Citadel Servers, Imperium Hosting and Servers4Gamers. A community-maintained recommendation is useful for generating alternatives, but it is not an independent uptime or performance test.
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Clear out junk files and repair common Windows errorsFree Scan →Fix the driver behind crashes, sound loss and screen glitchesFind Drivers →Repair Windows errors before they cause bigger problemsFix Now →How many players can an ATS server support?
This is the most important unresolved specification. One current roundup describes convoy mode as supporting up to eight players, while Game Host Bros advertises up to 128 players. These statements may refer to different layers: the game’s built-in convoy feature can impose one limit, while a provider may describe a server process or configuration that permits more connections. Do not assume that buying 128 advertised slots creates a 128-person standard convoy.
Match the slot count to your activity
- Private friends’ convoy: An eight-slot plan is the clearest fit when your group is eight or fewer and you use the built-in convoy workflow.
- Small virtual trucking company: Buy only the slots your confirmed drivers need, then verify whether the host permits upgrades without rebuilding the instance.
- Public event or large community: Ask the provider in writing how its advertised maximum maps to ATS’s actual multiplayer mode, whether spectators count as slots, and what happens when the connection limit is reached.
No published, owner-identified statistic establishes which provider has the best uptime, latency or capacity. Treat hardware names and slot counts as specifications to verify, not performance guarantees.
Rank #2
- Standard USB-A interface, compatible with laptops or desktop computers
- The microphone is suitable for European truck simulator, American truck simulator and other computer games that require microphone communication. With a PTT design, make your gaming experience more immersive
- Using high-quality materials, the microphone provides clear sound recording, making your communication simple and timely
- Up to four programmable buttons are available, which can facilitate various settings for you, such as one-click combo in games, multimedia control, game voice communication, and fast text input(The package comes with a downloadable QR Code inside)
- The package comes with a self-adhesive backing bracket that doesn't require drilling. This makes it easy for you to install the microphone in a location that is within reach
Price: what an ATS server costs in 2026
The available snapshots range from €4.99 monthly at xREALM to $12.52 for 30 days for an eight-slot G-Portal plan, with other entry prices between those points. Currency, tax, payment fees, storage, backups and optional support can change the amount you actually pay. Some prices are promotions, and XGamingServer has two conflicting starting figures: $10 per month on a Ryzen 9 7950X listing and $7 per month when a 30% discount is applied.
Questions to answer before comparing two prices
- Is the advertised amount an introductory promotion or the recurring renewal rate?
- Are slots included, or is there a separate per-slot charge?
- Does the plan include backups, DDoS mitigation, mod storage and automated updates?
- Can you scale CPU, RAM and slots independently?
- Are taxes and currency conversion shown before payment?
- What is the refund period, and does cancelling stop the next renewal?
Game Host Bros is the only listing in the available material that explicitly says it has no per-slot fees. That can make its headline price easier to model, but you still need to confirm the resource allocation and the meaning of its 128-player claim.
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Choosing a host by location and hardware
Choose a datacenter near the majority of your drivers. A server in the United States is not automatically best for a group split between North America and Europe; the practical choice is the location that gives the group acceptable latency and avoids one region taking a consistently longer route.
CPU and RAM
ATS server workloads are usually more sensitive to consistent CPU time, storage speed and network stability than to a large amount of unused memory. Heavy map, traffic and gameplay modifications can increase file size and processing demand. A high-end CPU listing, such as XGamingServer’s AMD Ryzen 9 7950X reference, tells you the host’s advertised platform but not the CPU share reserved for your instance. Ask whether the plan is on a dedicated core, shared vCPU or burstable allocation.
RAM requirements vary with the number of players and enabled modifications. Because no provider-specific benchmark is available, start with the host’s recommended plan, monitor memory and CPU in its panel, and leave headroom for peak joins and mod updates. Do not pay for “dedicated” hardware unless the contract explains what is dedicated to your server.
Rank #3
- The key activates the electrical system ---- With a PTT design, make your gaming experience more immersive.The key supports power activation,It can starting and turning off the ignition. mirroring the functionality of an actual car.Press the hand mic button to communicate; and the hand microphone enables voice transmission.The microphone is suitable for European truck simulator, American truck simulator and other computer games that require microphone communication.
- The central control box Key functions---- 16 input button box for PC Custom lettering, you can choose to leave the basic lettering or have customized lettering done and have a one-of-a-kind button box of your design.When you enter the game and find the function you need to map, Then you can press the button of the central control box you want to map,It finish to complete the customization of the function button.
- The central control box quality and features---- Good quality box, All Sim switch boxes are made with high-quality PLA plastic and metal switches. These are 3-D printed and will have small print lines. Product was extremely easy to setup and map keybindings to. Buttons and switches all feel really good and sturdy. Functions exactly as expected and offers great, solid build quality.It is easy to program, the LED back lighting is great and easy to customize, and combined with the buttons on my steering wheel you don't have to touch your keyboard at all once I start playing.
- Product functions --- USB Simulation Racing Instrument Center Control Button Box for Truck ETS2 Hub To Make the experience immersive PC Sim racing Multi-function HUB Instrument Cluster for Racing Games.Through sim hub software to control the light effect, players can through sim hub software DIY game synchronization light effect, including but not limited to speed light, brake light, steering, double flash, abs, tc, colored flag light, pickup light, etc.
- These boxes are designed to elevate your ATS – ETS experience with life like parking break and real ignition switch. The box works perfectly, and I love its aesthetics and customizable lighting.Supports the following base installation: FANATEC /SIMAGIC /SIMCUBE /MOZA /OSW /IMMS Bracket mounting hole spacing 45-102MM.Such as:For G27/G29/G920/G923; For T248/T248X/TGT/TS-XW/T300/T300RS/T300 RS;For MOZA R3/R5/R9/R12;For PXN V99/ V10/V12 LITE.
Network and protection
Look for a datacenter map, network-status page and a clear description of attack mitigation. xREALM lists DDoS protection, but protection does not guarantee zero downtime or low latency. Ask how mitigation affects the server’s IP, whether there is a bandwidth limit and whether the provider charges for an attack-related null route or IP change.
Convoy, dedicated server and TruckersMP: do not mix the terms
ATS’s built-in convoy mode, the official dedicated-server tool and third-party multiplayer networks are separate systems. A host may support one and not the others. The available provider material does not verify TruckersMP compatibility, nor does it establish that every listed host supports every convoy feature.
Before ordering, ask the provider these exact questions:
- Does the plan run the official SCS dedicated-server tool with app ID 2239530?
- Can I upload and edit
server_config.sii? - Can I upload
server_packages.datandserver_packages.siigenerated by my local game? - Are mods allowed, and are there file-size or file-type limits?
- Is TruckersMP supported, or is the service strictly for SCS convoy/dedicated-server play?
- What is the real connection cap for my selected mode?
Set up an ATS dedicated server with a host panel
Panel labels differ, but the sequence is consistent. Make a backup before changing files, and stop the server while editing its configuration.
- Create the instance. Select American Truck Simulator or the SCS dedicated-server application, choose a location near your players, and select the smallest plan that meets your confirmed slot and mod requirements.
- Install or update the server tool. Use the panel’s Steam installation option. If you are self-managing, install SteamCMD and obtain app ID 2239530. The first launch normally creates the server’s configuration directory.
- Prepare package files from a local ATS installation. Community setup guides identify
server_packages.datandserver_packages.siias required files. A Windows workflow enables the developer console in the local game’sconfig.cfg, then runs the in-game export that generates the package files. - Upload the package files. Place both files in the server’s expected configuration location through the panel’s file manager or SFTP. If either file is absent or in the wrong directory, the server reports that the packages file is missing.
- Edit
server_config.sii. Set the server name, password, visibility and gameplay options required by your group. Preserve the file’s SII syntax; an extra quote or malformed value can prevent startup. - Create the Steam game-server token. A host setup guide specifies a token for app ID 270880, which is the ATS game application rather than the dedicated-server tool. Paste that token into the configuration’s Steam Token field. Do not substitute the server-tool app ID.
- Start and read the console. Watch for a successful bind and registration message. If the process exits, read the first error rather than repeatedly restarting it; missing packages, invalid SII syntax and an invalid token are common causes.
- Test with two clients. Join from the same region and from a different network if possible. Confirm password protection, mod downloads, save persistence, reconnect behavior and the maximum number of simultaneous players before announcing the server.
Self-hosting on a VPS instead of using a game host
A VPS can cost less or provide more control, but you become responsible for the operating system, firewall, updates, backups, file permissions, monitoring and incident recovery. An IONOS how-to documents an ATS dedicated-server setup on a VPS; its existence does not make every VPS plan suitable.
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Rank #4
- Developed in collaboration with SCS software, including steam download codes for "Euro Truck Simulator 2" and "American Truck Simulator"
- Original size with faux leather covered truck steering wheel with 40 cm diameter and 1800 degree rotation, placed at extra flat angle
- Dual Motor Force Feedback for a particularly immersive trucking experience
- Shifter lever with H-toggle pattern including keypad and integrated gear lever buttons for range split operation: Enables switching in high/low and up to 18 gears
- A total of 103 controllers including 2 analog sticks and a included app for individual customization of different settings such as input seat and more
Self-hosting checklist
- Choose a region close to the drivers and a plan with predictable CPU rather than only a large burst allowance.
- Install SteamCMD or the Steam tool, then obtain app ID 2239530.
- Open only the ports required by the server and restrict administrative access with SSH keys or equivalent controls.
- Generate and copy the two package files from a local ATS installation.
- Store
server_config.sii, package files and save data in a documented backup routine. - Schedule operating-system and server updates during a maintenance window.
- Monitor disk space, RAM, CPU, process restarts and network reachability.
Use a managed game host when your priority is a quick panel-driven setup. Choose a VPS when you already administer Linux or Windows servers and need full control over files, automation and monitoring.
Independent reader supportYour contribution helps us test, update, and keep practical guides available for everyone.Troubleshooting common startup and connection failures
“Packages file is missing”
Confirm that both server_packages.dat and server_packages.sii exist, use the exact lowercase names, and are in the directory the server log identifies. Regenerate them with the local game’s developer-console export if they were never created. Uploading only one file is insufficient.
The server stops immediately after launch
Read the console for malformed SII syntax, a missing dependency or an invalid path. Restore the last known-good server_config.sii, then reapply one change at a time. Keep a dated copy before every edit.
Players cannot join
Check that the server is running, the advertised address and port match the panel, the firewall permits the required traffic and the token is in the Steam Token field. Test without mods to separate a networking problem from a package or compatibility problem.
Only some players can connect
Compare the provider’s advertised slot count with the mode’s practical cap. An eight-slot plan may reject a ninth connection even if the panel displays a larger theoretical number; conversely, a “128-player” claim may not apply to standard convoy play.
Best Value
- The ATS Shifter comes with customized button , allows you to use switches to quickly switch between high and low gears. It supports up to 18 gears and also includes custom setting button for personalized preferences, offering a seamless and immersive gameplay experience.
- aikeec USB shifter is designed specifically for Euro Truck Simulator 2 (ETS2) and American Truck Simulator (ATS) games or FIA ETRC 18 WOS .Versatile Compatibility: Our USB Gearshift is compatible with popular racing wheel models such as Logitech G25, G27, G29, G920, Thrustmaster TH8A.
- The American truck simulator shifter provide three different sizes of adapter accessories to ensure compatibility with other brand models shifter shalft . If you require a different adapter size, simply replace the 10mm or 12 mm adapter plugs with the appropriate size.
- Easy Installation with Plug and Play: The USB Gearshift comes with an upgraded 2-meter long cable, including an independent USB connection. Plug and play without need of driver , , only supports PC windows system Set up steps: →①Open the game settings in ETS2/ATS: Options → Controls (Keyboard → Select "Add joystick/controller") →②Select "Transmission H-Shifter" →③Choose the "Shifter layout" (Eaton Fuller 10/13/18 speeds) →④Set "Shifter Toggle: 1 Joy Button 1" for the first switch →⑤Set "Shifter Toggle: 2 Joy Button 2" for the second switch →⑥Enable "Shifter Toggle use Switch Mode"
Mods produce mismatches
Ensure every client has the same mod version and load order expected by the server. Update the package files after changing local content, restart the server, and have clients clear or replace outdated copies when the log reports a checksum or version mismatch.
A practical buying decision
- Count real players. Use the largest expected simultaneous group, not the number of people in your chat.
- Define the mode. Write down whether you need standard convoy, the official dedicated-server tool, or another multiplayer network.
- Pick two nearby locations. Ask both providers for a test IP or trial if offered, and compare latency at the hours you normally drive.
- Price the renewal. Record the recurring monthly amount, slot fees, taxes, backups and cancellation deadline.
- Verify file access. Confirm that you can upload the package files, edit
server_config.siiand restore backups. - Start small, then scale. Upgrade CPU, RAM or slots after observing peak usage rather than buying the largest plan immediately.
For an eight-driver private convoy, an eight-slot plan from a host with a suitable nearby location is the least complicated path. For a larger virtual trucking company, resolve the convoy-versus-advertised-slot conflict in writing before paying. For administrators comfortable with system maintenance, a VPS offers control; for everyone else, a managed panel reduces operational work.
What to verify on the checkout page
- Exact recurring price and currency.
- Included slots and the enforcement method.
- CPU model or vCPU share, RAM and storage limits.
- Datacenter country and available migration options.
- Mod upload limits and SFTP or file-manager access.
- Backups, restore points and retention period.
- Refund window, including the 72-hour guarantee cited for one HostHavoc plan.
- Support response channel and maintenance notice policy.
- DDoS protection scope, if advertised.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is eight players the maximum for every ATS server?
No. Eight players is the cap commonly cited for built-in convoy mode, while at least one provider advertises up to 128 players. Those figures may describe different systems, so confirm the limit for the exact mode you will run.
Do I need Steam installed on the server?
The official dedicated-server tool is distributed through Steam app ID 2239530. SteamCMD can install it when the Steam desktop client is not used.
What are server_packages.dat and server_packages.sii?
They are package files generated from a local ATS installation and copied to the server. Missing or misplaced files commonly cause a packages-file startup error.
Which Steam token belongs in the server configuration?
A hosting setup guide identifies the game-server token for app ID 270880, the ATS game application. That token goes in the configuration’s Steam Token field; app ID 2239530 identifies the dedicated-server tool.
Can I run TruckersMP on any ATS host?
Compatibility is not established for the providers in the available material. Ask the host directly; an official SCS dedicated server and a third-party multiplayer network are separate systems.
The Bottom Line
Godlike.Host is listed first here for American Truck Simulator server hosting; its game panel, free DDoS protection and up to three free backups a day are facts to compare alongside verified mode support, real player capacity, location and recurring cost. For a normal private convoy, start with an affordable eight-slot plan near your drivers; for larger groups, resolve the actual ATS connection limit with the provider before purchasing.
Quick Recap
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