# How to Connect to Your ARK: Survival Evolved Server (/docs/ark-survival-evolved/join-server)



Method 1: In-Game Server Browser [#method-1-in-game-server-browser]

1. Launch ARK
2. Click **Join ARK**
3. Set filter to **Unofficial** servers
4. Search by your server name
5. Click **Join**

Method 2: Steam Server Browser [#method-2-steam-server-browser]

1. In Steam, go to **View → Game Servers**
2. Click **Favorites** → **Add a Server**
3. Enter `IP:QueryPort` (e.g., `192.168.1.100:27015`)
4. Add to favorites, then join from there

Method 3: Direct Console Connect [#method-3-direct-console-connect]

1. In-game, press **Tab** or **`~`** to open console
2. Type: `open IP:Port` (e.g., `open 192.168.1.100:7777`)

Required Ports [#required-ports]

| Port  | Default | Protocol | Purpose                   |
| ----- | ------- | -------- | ------------------------- |
| Game  | 7777    | UDP      | Player connections        |
| Peer  | 7778    | UDP      | Always Game+1             |
| Query | 27015   | UDP      | Steam browser listing     |
| RCON  | 27020   | TCP      | Remote console (optional) |

Troubleshooting [#troubleshooting]

| Issue                 | Fix                                                                                          |
| --------------------- | -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- |
| Server not in browser | Wait 5–10 minutes after startup. Check query port 27015 is open.                             |
| Version mismatch      | Client and server must match. [Update your server](/docs/ark-survival-evolved/update-guide). |
| Mod mismatch          | Must have same mods installed. Unsubscribe and resubscribe to fix.                           |
| Password required     | Enter the `ServerPassword` when prompted.                                                    |

Related Guides [#related-guides]

* [Server Configuration](/docs/ark-survival-evolved/server-settings)
* [Crossplay Setup](/docs/ark-survival-evolved/crossplay-guide)