To add mods to an ARK server, first identify whether it runs ARK: Survival Evolved (ASE) or ARK: Survival Ascended (ASA). ASE uses Steam Workshop IDs and settings in its configuration files; ASA uses CurseForge project IDs in the server’s -mods launch argument. These are different systems. The available documentation does not establish a general installation procedure for third-party server plugins, so do not treat plugins as interchangeable with game mods.
Which ARK server version are you running?
Check the game edition in your server files, launch setup, or hosting control panel before changing anything. The configuration names and mod identifiers differ by edition. The ARK server configuration reference documents Steam Workshop settings for ASE and a CurseForge-based method for ASA.
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Outbyte PC Repair FREEClear out junk files and repair common Windows errorsFree Scan →Outbyte Driver Updater FREEScan for outdated or missing drivers - takes under a minuteDriver Scan →| Server edition | Mod source | Identifier and configuration | Automatic server updates |
|---|---|---|---|
| ARK: Survival Evolved (ASE) | Steam Workshop, according to the server configuration reference | Workshop IDs in ModIDS under [ModInstaller], and a comma-separated ActiveMods list |
Add -automanagedmods to the launch command; the reference describes this as Steam-only |
| ARK: Survival Ascended (ASA) | CurseForge, according to the server configuration reference and ARK:SA x CurseForge | CurseForge project IDs in the -mods launch argument |
The reference says server mods update automatically when the server starts |
| Third-party server plugins | Not established by the sources cited here | No verified installation method | Not stated |
Before you change the mod setup
- Back up the world saves and server configuration. The dedicated server setup guide recommends backups in the context of server updates. A backup gives you a recovery point if a change causes startup or world-loading problems.
- Check each mod’s requirements. Confirm it supports your specific game edition, platform, and server before adding it. The available documentation does not provide a complete compatibility list for every mod.
- Keep the right IDs for the edition. An ASE Steam Workshop ID is not an ASA CurseForge project ID.
Add mods to an ARK: Survival Evolved server
ASE uses Steam Workshop mods. The configuration reference identifies two separate tasks: arranging for the server to download and maintain mods, and specifying which mods it should load.
- List the Workshop IDs in Game.ini. In the server’s
Game.ini, add a[ModInstaller]section if needed. Add oneModIDS=<Workshop ID>line for each mod to be downloaded, installed, or updated. Use the mod’s Steam Workshop ID, not its title. - Enable automatic mod management in the server launch command. Add
-automanagedmodsto the server launch command so ASE can automatically download, install, and update the listed mods. The configuration reference describes this argument as Steam-only. - Set the mods the server should load. In
GameUserSettings.ini, under[ServerSettings], setActiveModsto a comma-separated list of the mod IDs. The list determines which mods load and their order. The configuration reference also documents a command-line option for activating mods. - Start the server and check its startup. Watch for download or startup errors before inviting players. If a mod fails to load, confirm its ID, the launch argument, and the active list; consult the mod’s own instructions for requirements not covered by the server configuration reference.
Use the exact capitalization and section names shown in the configuration reference. Its settings are community-maintained documentation, so check the current server files and mod instructions if a game update changes behavior.
#1 Best Overall
- Use cunning strategy and tactics to tame, train, ride and breed the 100+ dinosaurs and other primeval creatures roaming the dynamic, persistent ecosystems across land, sea, air, and even underground Build your character's strengths and gain items, skills, and pet creatures using in-depth role-playing systems
- Start a tribe with hundreds of other players to survive and dominate competing tribes...and ultimately discover ARK's true purpose
- Build a fire or shelter, then craft customizable clothing & armors to help protect against damage and extreme temperatures on your way to unlocking advanced technologies and equipment
- Chop down trees and mine metal and other precious resources to build massive multi-leveled structures composed of complex snap-linked parts
Add mods to an ARK: Survival Ascended server
ASA uses CurseForge rather than ASE’s Steam Workshop configuration. The ARK:SA x CurseForge page describes mods as available through the in-game interface and CurseForge website, with PC and server versions.
- Choose compatible CurseForge projects. Check that each mod supports ASA and the intended server and platform. Do not assume a mod is compatible just because it appears in CurseForge.
- Collect each project ID. Use the CurseForge project ID for each mod; do not substitute an ASE Workshop ID.
- Add the IDs to the server launch argument. Put the comma-separated project IDs in the server’s
-modsargument, following the server’s existing launch-command format. - Start the server and verify that it loads. The configuration reference says ASA server mods update automatically at startup. Check the server’s startup output for errors before players join.
Do not use ASE’s [ModInstaller], ModIDS, ActiveMods, or -automanagedmods instructions as the ASA setup method; the configuration reference marks the legacy Steam Workshop settings as not applicable to ASA.
Rank #2
- Capture and Tame Dinosaurs: Discover over 100 different dinosaurs and prehistoric creatures on the island, finding ways to tame them into useful additions for your tribe's dino herd
- Survive Above All: Hunger, thirst, basic safety, and protecting yourself from the weather are all part of the game
- Harvest, Hunt and Build: Cut down trees and turn them into a basic home, which you can quickly expand into a Jurassic estate. Hunt for meat, scavenge for plants (or start your own garden!)
- Customize Everything: An extensive crafting system invites you to mix and match materials scavenged from the island, while also modifying the colors, textures, shapes, and styles
- Explore the Island: Solve the mystery of The ARK as you explore this massive island, discovering Explorer's Notebooks (filled with clues!) throughout
What players need to do on ASA
CurseForge support says that when players join a modded ASA server, its listing can show the required mods and prompt players to install any they do not already have. The support article covers the player-side joining experience, not a complete server-administration procedure: How to install ARK: Survival Ascended mods in-game.
Independent reader supportYour contribution helps us test, update, and keep practical guides available for everyone.Are server plugins installed the same way as mods?
No general plugin installation method is established by the documentation cited here. It covers game mods and server configuration, but does not identify an authoritative third-party plugin framework, supported server versions or operating systems, or a current plugin installation procedure. A plugin may have its own framework and requirements, so do not add it using the mod steps above unless its own documentation explicitly says to. Before installing a plugin, verify the framework’s primary documentation for your exact ARK edition, server version, and operating system.
Quick Recap
Rank #4
- Capture and Tame Dinosaurs: Discover over 100 different dinosaurs and prehistoric creatures on the island, finding ways to tame them into useful additions for your tribe's dino herd
- Survive Above All: Hunger, thirst, basic safety, and protecting yourself from the weather are all part of the game
- Harvest, Hunt and Build: Cut down trees and turn them into a basic home, which you can quickly expand into a Jurassic estate. Hunt for meat, scavenge for plants (or start your own garden!)
- Customize Everything: An extensive crafting system invites you to mix and match materials scavenged from the island, while also modifying the colors, textures, shapes, and styles
- Explore the Island: Solve the mystery of The ARK as you explore this massive island, discovering Explorer's Notebooks (filled with clues!) throughout
Rank #3
- Capture and Tame Dinosaurs: Discover over 100 different dinosaurs and prehistoric creatures on the island, finding ways to tame them into useful additions for your tribe's dino herd
- Survive Above All: Hunger, thirst, basic safety and protecting yourself from the weather are all part of the game. Run too far and not only will you be exhausted, but you will also quickly get hungry and thirsty. Weather effects are based on real-world climates, and so you'll need to hide out from rain and snow, while making the most of sunny days
- Harvest, Hunt and Build: Cut down trees and turn them into a basic home, which you can quickly expand into a Jurassic estate. Hunt for meat, scavenge for plants (or start your own garden!)
- Gather Resources, Customize Everything: An extensive crafting system invites you to mix and match materials scavenged from the island, while also modifying the colors, textures, shapes and style of everything from the walls of your home, to your character's armor, weapons and more
- Explore the Island: Solve the mystery of The ARK as you explore this massive island, discovering Explorer's Notebooks (filled with clues!) throughout. Make your way to the final boss and figure out why you've been dropped into this Jurassic-era experience
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