> ## Documentation Index
> Fetch the complete documentation index at: https://help.freakhosting.com/llms.txt
> Use this file to discover all available pages before exploring further.

# How to Install Ark Mods

> Learn how to install and manage Steam Workshop mods on your Ark: Survival Evolved server. Automated download and update guide for a customized experience.

## Enhancing Your Ark with Mods

Game modifications are a cornerstone of the Ark: Survival Evolved (ASE) community. Whether you want to add quality-of-life improvements like *Structures Plus (S+)* or completely overhaul the game with *Primal Fear*, our game panel is designed to automate the download and update process for you. This guide will walk you through the correct way to register and initialize mods on your server.

<CardGroup cols={2}>
  <Card title="Difficulty" icon="gauge-low">
    Intermediate
  </Card>

  <Card title="Time" icon="clock">
    10 Minutes
  </Card>
</CardGroup>

***

## Installation Guide

Follow these steps to connect your server to the Steam Workshop and begin downloading mods.

<Steps>
  <Step title="Retrieve Mod IDs">
    Visit the [Steam Workshop for Ark](https://steamcommunity.com/app/346110/workshop/). Click on your desired mod and look at the URL. Copy the numeric ID at the end (e.g., `?id=731604991`).
  </Step>

  <Step title="Register in Startup Tab">
    Log in to your [Game Panel](https://panel.freakhosting.com) and navigate to the **Startup** tab. Find the **Active Mods** field and enter your IDs separated by commas.

    * *Example:* `731604991,1404697612,1609112585`
  </Step>

  <Step title="Initialize the Download">
    Navigate back to the **Console** and click **Start**. The server will communicate with Steam and begin downloading the files into the `/ShooterGame/Content/Mods/` directory.
  </Step>
</Steps>

***

<Important>
  ### The "Hidden" Progress

  Ark does not display a visual progress bar in the server console for mod downloads. During the first boot with a large mod list, the server may appear "frozen" or unresponsive for up to 10-15 minutes as it processes gigabytes of data. **Do not interrupt or restart the server during this phase.**
</Important>

***

## Resolving Mod Version Mismatch

One of the most common issues in Ark is the "Mod Version Mismatch" error. This happens when the developer of a mod releases an update, and your personal computer has downloaded it, but the server is still running the older version.

<Check>
  ### Synchronization Fix

  To resolve this, simply **Restart** your FREAKHOSTING server. On every boot, the server checks the Steam Workshop for updates to your registered Mod IDs. If an update is detected, it will automatically download the newest version before allowing players to join.
</Check>

***

<Note>
  ### Need Extra Help?

  If you encounter any issues, our support team is ready to assist:

  * **Live Chat:** Quick assistance via our website.
  * **Support Ticket:** [Open a Ticket](https://freakhosting.com/clientarea/submitticket.php)
  * **Discord:** [Join our Community](https://discord.gg/freakhosting)
  * **Email:** [support@freakhosting.com](mailto:support@freakhosting.com)
</Note>

<Tip>
  ### Save on Your Hosting

  Ready to get a new server? Use code **KB20** at checkout for **20% off** your first month!
</Tip>

***

<div align="center">
  **Last Updated:** January 2026 | **Modding:** Personalized survival.
</div>