start ShooterGameServer.exe TheIsland?listen?Port=7777?QueryPort=27015?MaxPlayers=20?ServerCrosshair=True?MapPlayerLocation=True?AllowFlyerCarryPvE=True -NoBattlEye -insecure -server -log
Before we dive into the technical setup, let's establish why you would want to cut the cord from the official network.
The Pros:
The Cons:
Playing ARK: Survival Evolved on a Local Area Network (LAN) allows you to host a private game for people on the same Wi-Fi or ethernet connection without needing a public internet server. You can choose between a quick Non-Dedicated Session for casual play or a Dedicated Server for a more permanent, stable world. Method 1: Non-Dedicated LAN Session (easiest) how to play lan ark survival evolved exclusive
This method lets you play and host on the same machine. It's ideal for a few friends on the same network. Host the Game: On the main menu, select Host/Local.
Crucial Step: Set the Non-Dedicated Host Tether Distance to a high number (like 99.0) so your friends aren't constantly teleported back to you when they wander too far.
Click Host Non-Dedicated Session, enter a session name and password, and launch the map. Join the Game: Other players should select Join ARK from the main menu. start ShooterGameServer
Change the Session Filter (bottom left) to LAN or Non-Dedicated Sessions. Search for the host's session name and join. Method 2: Private Dedicated LAN Server (Advanced)
Use this if you have an extra PC to act as a permanent host. This removes the "tether" and provides better performance.
Here's how to play ARK: Survival Evolved on LAN (local network) exclusively so only devices on your local network can join. Before we dive into the technical setup, let's
If you want, tell me whether you're on PC (Steam) or console and whether you want non-dedicated or dedicated — I'll give exact command lines and firewall rules.
To ensure this never tries to call home:
Playing ARK over LAN means you and your friends connect directly through your local router—no official server or heavy internet connection required. The "Exclusive" method typically refers to Non-Dedicated Hosting or using Steam’s LAN play for a private session.