Your ARK: Survival Ascended server name is controlled by SessionName. Set it either with the ?SessionName=YourName launch parameter or with a SessionName= line under [SessionSettings] in ShooterGame/Saved/Config/WindowsServer/GameUserSettings.ini. If both are present, the launch parameter takes priority. Stop the server before editing the file, then restart it and confirm the new name in the multiplayer server browser.
Godlike.Host offers hosted ARK: Survival Ascended servers with its own game panel, SFTP access and free DDoS protection, if you would rather not host it yourself.
What the server name changes
SessionName is the label players see when they browse multiplayer servers in ARK: Survival Ascended. It identifies the session in the server list; it is not the name of the map, character, tribe, save, or host account.
As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.
The Tool Desk
Outbyte Driver Updater FREEFix the driver behind crashes, sound loss and screen glitchesFind Drivers →Outbyte PC Repair FREERepair Windows errors before they cause bigger problemsFix Now →Renaming is cosmetic. It does not reset the world, remove player data, delete tames, or alter gameplay settings. Those systems are stored separately from the session label. You can therefore rename a running community server as an identification or organization change without intending to start a new save.
ASA builds and hosting panels can change their configuration screens. The two underlying methods remain the useful things to look for: a startup argument containing SessionName, or the same key in GameUserSettings.ini.
#1 Best Overall
- [Ultra-Lightweight Ear Buds Designed for Small Ears] Each earbud weighs only 3.7g and features a compact, ergonomic in-ear design made especially for small ears. Secure, low-profile, and comfortable for workouts, all-day wear or overnight sleeping.The ultra-slim profile sits flush in your ear with no hard edges poking or rubbing, so you can even sleep on your side without discomfort.
- [Immersive Stereo Sound with TOZO OrigX Technology] TOZO OrigX tuning delivers clear vocals, balanced mids, and natural stereo sound for music, podcasts, and videos.
- [Long Battery Life for Daily Use] Get up to 7 hours of playtime on a single charge, with up to 32 hours total using the charging case—ideal for workdays, commuting, and extended listening sessions.
- [Bluetooth 5.3 & Stable Connection] Bluetooth 5.3 provides fast pairing, stable wireless performance, and reduced dropouts as you move around home or office.
- [Deep Bass with Clear Vocals] High-performance drivers produce punchy bass while keeping vocals clean and detailed for everyday listening.
Choose the method that matches your setup
| Method | Where you edit it | When it is useful | Important behavior |
|---|---|---|---|
| Launch parameter | The server startup command or a host panel’s Startup/Game Settings field | You have panel access and want the value supplied every time the process starts | ?SessionName=... overrides an ini value when both are defined |
| Configuration file | ShooterGame/Saved/Config/WindowsServer/GameUserSettings.ini, under [SessionSettings] |
You have file access and want to edit the generated server configuration directly | The server can rewrite the file during shutdown, so edit only while it is stopped |
Use one method deliberately. If a control panel silently adds a startup value, changing the ini file alone will appear to do nothing because the command-line value wins. Conversely, if the panel has no custom startup field, the ini method is the practical option.
Method 1: change the name with a launch parameter
Find the startup settings
Stop the server if it is currently running, then open the host’s startup, launch, or game-settings page. The exact label depends on the provider. Look for a field that displays the command line or accepts additional arguments. Some panels expose individual controls rather than the complete command; in that case, use the field for custom launch parameters.
Recommended Free Tools
Add the parameter
- Locate the existing startup arguments.
- Add
?SessionName=YourNameto the launch line. ReplaceYourNamewith the label you want players to see. - Keep the leading question mark. It is part of the parameter format used by the server launch line.
- Save or apply the panel change.
- Start or restart the server so the process receives the new argument.
For example, a launch configuration can contain:
?SessionName=Community-IslandThe example uses a simple name to make the syntax visible. Your panel may place the argument beside other ASA options; do not remove unrelated arguments when adding this one.
When the panel has a dedicated name field
Some hosts translate the launch argument into a labeled “Server name,” “Session name,” or similar field. Enter the value there and save. To diagnose a value that refuses to change, inspect the generated startup arguments rather than assuming the field edits the ini file. A hidden or automatically generated ?SessionName= still has precedence over the file.
Rank #2
- 【IP68 Waterproof Multifunctinal Smart Watch】Torjalph fitness activity tracker smart watch is IP68 waterproof technology ,you can wear it when swimming,handwashing,it's rain-proof which means that you perform multiple exercise modes outside without worrying about sweat or rain corroding your fitness smart watch,and this watch equipped with a 230 mAh large capacity battery magnetic charging ,and this sports activity tracker watch can be used 5-7 days If fully charged.
- 【Larger 1.83'' Full Screen Watch & Multi-dial Selection】1.83 inch full HD color touch screen smart watch for men / women provides excellent 240*284 resolution image quality ,This Bluetooth smart watch offers a better touch experience and remarkable immersion and ,more than 200 watch faces for you to choose from App"Da Fit ", you can change the dial style according to your mood to wear keeping the world on your wrist
- 【Accurate Activity Tracker Smart Watch 】sports watch activity tracker uses sweat and dust resistant breathable silicone strap, our Fitness Tracker Smart Watch for Android iOS Phones supports 12 sports modes,walking,running,bicycle,swimming,badminton,basketball,football,rope skipping. This bluetooth calls smart watch for men women is lightweight and stylish, bringing more convenient and relaxing sports experience while also providing more protection.
- 【Your 24 Hour Personal Daily Health Monitor】Fitness watch for women men full touch screen IP67 waterproof bluetooth smartwatch for Android iOS Phones with heart rate blood pressure monitor multifunction Andriod smart watch with steps counter sleep monitor sports fitness watch, monitoring blood oxygen saturation allows you to understand your physical condition in real time to track fitness progress ,to know your health status in time.
- 【More Functions Bluetooth Call Smart Watch】This fitness activity smart watch full screen for iPhone and Android phones includes a bunch of new features including:The bluetooth smart watch can hang up the phone, receive and display WhatsAPP /Text /Facebook /Twitter /Messenger reminder.Support sedentary reminder, alarm clock, stopwatch, timer,weather information,music control, remote camera control compatible with Android 5.0 and above or iOS 9.0 and above smartphones.
Method 2: edit GameUserSettings.ini
Locate the file
For a Windows server installation, the relevant path is:
ShooterGame/Saved/Config/WindowsServer/GameUserSettings.iniThe file is normally created after the server has started at least once. If it is absent, start the server, allow it to create its configuration, stop it cleanly, and then check the path again. Host panels may present the same file through a configuration editor instead of a normal file browser.
Free tools Windows power users keep installed
One-click scans. No signup required.
Stop the server before opening the file
Do not edit while the server process is active. The server rewrites GameUserSettings.ini at shutdown; an edit made during runtime can therefore be overwritten when the process closes. Stop the server from the panel or service manager and wait until its status is fully stopped.
Add SessionName in the correct section
- Make a backup copy of
GameUserSettings.inibefore changing it. - Open the file as plain text.
- Find the exact section header
[SessionSettings]. - Under that header, add or edit a plain line in this form:
SessionName=YourName. - Save the file without changing the section header or adding formatting characters.
- Start the server and wait for it to finish loading.
A minimal section looks like this:
[SessionSettings]
SessionName=Community-IslandIf a SessionName= line already exists under the section, edit that line rather than creating competing entries. A key placed under another heading can be silently ignored, so the section location matters as much as the spelling.
Rank #3
- [Low Noise High Fidelity] New bee guitar cord with 22AWG oxygen-free-copper center conductors provides enhanced signal transfer, the PVC insulation material and the high-density stranded copper double shield provide noise rejection for quiet operation
- [Ideal for Choice] New bee 1/4 straight and right angle metal connectors, ensures a secure connection in any instrument, pedal, or amp jack. L shape great fro on stage guitar stands
- [Wide Compatible] Suitable for mixer, power amplifier, microphone, effector, decoder, equalizer, electoronic organ, electric guitar, electric bass and other electronic equipments. Widely used in the installation of smart home, karaoke speaker, professional stage audio, etc
- [Easy Disassemble] Making incidental repairs quick and easy! Very nice, flexible cable
- [Dont Hesite to Order] 24 hours customer services and professional technology team are standing by
Which setting wins when both are present?
Command-line arguments override values in the ini files. This precedence explains the most common “I changed the file but the old name remains” result:
- The server starts with a value such as
?SessionName=PanelName. - The ini contains
SessionName=FileName. - The running server uses
PanelName, because the launch parameter has higher priority.
To make the ini value effective, remove the competing startup parameter from the panel or launch command, save that change, and restart. If you prefer panel-managed startup settings, leave the parameter in place and change its value there instead. Do not keep changing both locations without checking which one is authoritative.
What’s actually slowing this PC down?
Pick the symptom - the matching free tool is one click away.
Verify that the new name is active
- Confirm that the server is completely stopped before the last edit.
- Check the active startup arguments for an unexpected
?SessionName=. - Check
GameUserSettings.iniand verify that the line is under[SessionSettings]. - Start the server and allow it to finish loading.
- Open ASA’s multiplayer server browser and search for the exact new label.
If the browser still shows the previous label, give the server a full stop-and-start rather than only saving the panel form. Then repeat the precedence check. A name visible in the browser is the useful confirmation; editing the file alone does not prove that the running process read it.
Troubleshooting a name that will not change
The old name returns after every restart
First inspect the launch line. A host panel may regenerate startup arguments on each boot, and its ?SessionName= value overrides the file. Change or remove that argument, save the panel configuration, stop the server, and start it again.
Rank #4
- Digital Family Calendar: BSIMB digital calendar wall touch screen puts an end to your chaotic life. Designed for busy families, the digital calendar keeps you organised and in step with your family. Assign different colours and tasks to each family member to make family scheduling easier and more intuitive.
- Easy Setup and Auto-Sync: Plug in, connect to WLAN and auto-syn your electric calendar in minutes. Digital wall calendar compatible with Google calendar, iCloud calendar, Outlook calendar, Cozi calendar and Yahoo calendar. Add events directly on the device or through the ecalendar app. Electronic calendar stays current whether you're at work or traveling—no manual updates needed.
- All-In-One Home Assistant: Smart calendar builds habits and encourage independence with personalised chores. Display daily meal plan to reduce the daily ‘What's for dinner?’ stress. To-do lists keep track of everything you want. Turning chores into valuable achievements with stars and rewards, making life easier and more enjoyable.
- Manage Anytime Anywhere: BSIMB electronic calendar for family stay connected with the powerful ecalendar app. Access and manage your digital wall calendar anytime, anywhere with free features like stars & rewards, photo screensaver, chore charts, meals plans, to-do lists etc. Electronic planner paid features like Magic Import tailor advanced tools for users with special needs.
- Stay in Touch with Loved Ones: Share photos or videos from your phone to electronic wall calendar with app, instantly update your life moment, and keep in touch with your family, especially those who are far away; you can also surprise your smart calendar digital wall by sending him a wish card; it's also great for keeping tech-illiterate elders in touch with the youngsters.
The ini line is ignored
Check all three details: the file path, the spelling of the key, and the section header. The expected arrangement is:
ShooterGame/Saved/Config/WindowsServer/GameUserSettings.ini
[SessionSettings]
SessionName=YourNameA line under a different heading can be ignored without producing a clear error. Also confirm that you edited the server’s active installation rather than a local client copy or an inactive backup.
The change disappears after shutdown
This usually means the file was edited while the server was running and was rewritten during shutdown. Stop it first, make the edit, save, and then start it. If a panel manages the file, use its built-in configuration editor while the service is stopped and check whether the panel has a separate startup value.
The panel does not show a name field
Use its custom startup-argument field if available and add ?SessionName=YourName. If the host provides file access but no argument field, edit GameUserSettings.ini under [SessionSettings]. If neither is available, the host has not exposed the setting through its current interface; its support documentation or support team is the appropriate place to ask where custom ASA arguments are entered.
The server is listed but the browser shows an unexpected label
Compare the browser text with every active SessionName occurrence you can access. The winning value is the one supplied on the launch command. Remove duplicate or stale panel entries, then perform a complete restart. Keep a copy of the final working configuration so a later panel reset can be identified quickly.
Do not confuse the name with other server settings
Maximum player count
The maximum number of players is separate from SessionName. Changing the displayed name will not increase or decrease capacity. Configuration references disagree about where the player limit belongs: one host documents a -WinLiveMaxPlayers launch argument, while an AMP template places MaxPlayers under [/Script/Engine.GameSession]. Because those instructions conflict and can vary by build or host, verify the method for your own ASA version instead of copying either setting into the name section.
PC Slower Than It Used to Be?
A free scan shows the junk files, broken settings and background clutter dragging Windows down - then fixes them in one click.Free scan · Windows 10 & 11Crashes, No Sound, or Screen Glitches?
Random freezes, missing sound and display glitches usually trace back to one bad driver. Find and replace yours safely.Free scan · under a minuteMap, save, and cluster identity
The session label does not rename a map or save. Cluster transfer settings are a separate issue as well. Community instructions describe linking maps with -clusterid= in island and seed files, but that discussion is old and player reports indicate that transfers are not consistently reliable. Treat cluster renaming or cluster identity changes as unverified for a current build; do not assume that changing SessionName will make maps share transfers.
Safe editing checklist
- Record the current startup arguments before changing them.
- Stop the server and wait for a fully stopped status.
- Back up
GameUserSettings.ini. - Use exactly
?SessionName=...on the launch line orSessionName=...under[SessionSettings]. - Do not put the key under an unrelated section.
- Check for a launch parameter before blaming the ini file.
- Restart completely and verify the label in the ASA server browser.
- Keep the working configuration as a rollback copy.
What to expect after renaming
The visible result is a different session label in the multiplayer browser. The underlying world remains the same: players, tames, progress, and gameplay configuration are not reset by this cosmetic edit. If you need to change any of those, use their dedicated settings and backup procedures rather than adding more text to SessionName.
Because ASA server configuration keys, launch parameters, and host-panel labels can change with game builds, treat the exact path and syntax above as the baseline to check against your current installation. The decisive checks are still the same: the name comes from SessionName, the startup argument has precedence, and the ini must be edited while the server is stopped.
Quick Recap
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.
