# How to Set Up an ARK Survival Evolved Server Cluster (/docs/ark-survival-evolved/cluster-setup)



import { Step, Steps } from 'fumadocs-ui/components/steps';

A cluster links multiple ARK servers so players can transfer characters, dinos, and items between maps via Obelisks or supply drops.

Set Up a Cluster [#set-up-a-cluster]

<Steps>
  <Step>
    Choose a Cluster ID [#choose-a-cluster-id]

    Pick a unique string all servers will share (e.g., `MyCluster2025`).
  </Step>

  <Step>
    Add startup parameters [#add-startup-parameters]

    On **each** server, go to **Startup** in the [XGamingServer Panel](https://panel.xgamingserver.com). Add:

    ```
    -ClusterId=MyCluster2025 -ClusterDirOverride="ShooterGame/Saved/clusters"
    ```

    All servers must use the **same ClusterId**.
  </Step>

  <Step>
    Set different maps [#set-different-maps]

    Each server should run a different map. See [Map Selection](/docs/ark-survival-evolved/map-selection).
  </Step>

  <Step>
    Restart all servers [#restart-all-servers]

    Players can now transfer at Obelisks and supply drops.
  </Step>
</Steps>

Transfer Settings [#transfer-settings]

In `GameUserSettings.ini` under `[ServerSettings]`:

| Setting                    | Default | Description                  |
| -------------------------- | ------- | ---------------------------- |
| `PreventDownloadSurvivors` | `False` | Block character transfers in |
| `PreventDownloadItems`     | `False` | Block item transfers in      |
| `PreventDownloadDinos`     | `False` | Block dino transfers in      |

Related Guides [#related-guides]

* [Map Selection](/docs/ark-survival-evolved/map-selection)
* [Server Settings](/docs/ark-survival-evolved/server-settings)