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To set a password on an ARK: Survival Evolved server on FREAKHOSTING, stop the server, open Game settings, click Set next to Server password in Server, enter the password, click Review and save and start the server. Players then enter it when they join. Leave Server password empty for an open server. The Admin password is a different setting: it unlocks admin commands.

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Server password or admin password?

Never use the same value for both. Anyone who knows the admin password can use admin commands.

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How to set the server password

1

Stop the server

Click Stop. Settings saved while ARK runs are overwritten when it stops.
2

Set the password

Open Game settings. Next to Server password, click Set and enter the password.
3

Review and save

Click Review and save. The password is saved on the Startup page as Server Password.
4

Start the server

Click Start and wait for Waiting commands for 127.0.0.1:27020 in the console.
Use letters, numbers, - and _ only (1 to 100 characters). Other symbols are rejected by the Startup page.

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How to remove the password

Stop the server, clear Server password in Game settings, click Review and save and start the server.

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How players join a password server

Players find the server under Unofficial in Join ARK. If it is hidden, they check the server list filters for password-protected servers. The game asks for the password when they join. Share the password privately, for example in your Discord.

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Frequently asked questions

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Why does the password not work?

Check that the server was stopped when you saved and that you started it again afterwards. Then check the value on the Startup page under Server Password and type it exactly as shown.

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Can I whitelist players instead of using a password?

ARK has a whitelist mode with the -exclusivejoin argument and the PlayersJoinNoCheckList.txt file. We have not tested it on our servers; a server password is the simplest way to keep a server private.

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How do I change the admin password?

Use Change next to Admin password in Game settings. See become admin.

ARK server guide

Every ARK page in one place.

Become admin

Admin password and enablecheats.

Getting started

First setup and joining.

Not showing in the list

Find your server.
Tested by the FREAKHOSTING team on our Game Panel on 2 November 2026 (ARK: Survival Evolved dedicated server). Steps may differ slightly if the game changes.

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Need Extra Help?

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

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Last Updated: November 2026