How to Install Mods on Your ARK: Survival Evolved Server
How to add Steam Workshop mods to your ARK SE dedicated server using ActiveMods and automanagedmods.
Adding Mods
Step 1: Get the Mod ID
Find the Workshop mod's numeric ID from its Steam Workshop URL (the number at the end).
Step 2: Add to Config
In GameUserSettings.ini under [ServerSettings]:
ActiveMods=ModID1,ModID2,ModID3Comma-separated, no spaces. Leftmost = highest load priority.
Step 3: Enable Auto-Management
Make sure -automanagedmods is in your startup parameters (check Startup in the panel). This auto-downloads and updates mods.
Step 4: Restart
Restart your server. Mods download automatically on startup.
Important Notes
- All players must have the same mods subscribed on their client
- Load order matters — dependencies must load before the mods that need them
- Mod mismatch is the #1 connection issue — if players can't join, check mod versions
- Total conversion mods use
-TotalConversionMod=<ModID>instead ofActiveMods
Removing Mods
Remove the mod ID from ActiveMods and restart. World data from that mod may cause errors — back up first.
⚠️ Warning: Removing mods that added items/dinos to the world can cause save issues. Always back up before changing mods.
Related Guides
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