How to Update an ASA Dedicated Server

Updating an Ark Survival Ascended (ASA) dedicated server keeps it compatible with the latest game patches, fixes bugs, and adds new content. This guide walks you through updating both SteamCMD-based and Steam client-based servers on Windows and Linux. You’ll need access to your server’s files, the SteamCMD tool (if not already installed), and the ability to run commands as an administrator or root user.

What You’ll Need

Access to the server machine (local or remote via SSH/RDP).
SteamCMD installed (if you’re using a dedicated server via SteamCMD).
The server’s installation directory path (where the ASA server files are located).
Your server’s app ID (for ASA it’s 2430930).
A Steam account with ownership of ARK: Survival Ascended (for client-based updates).
Basic command-line knowledge.

Step-by-Step

Back up your server files. Before updating, copy the entire server directory (or at least the Saved folder containing world saves and configs) to a safe location. This ensures you can roll back if the update causes issues.
Stop the server. If the server is running, shut it down gracefully. On Windows, use the console command saveworld then quit. On Linux, use the kill command with the server’s PID, or use a process manager like systemctl to stop the service.
Update via SteamCMD (recommended). Open a terminal or command prompt. Navigate to your SteamCMD installation directory. Run the following commands, replacing YOUR_USERNAME and YOUR_PASSWORD with your Steam credentials (or use anonymous if your server allows it):
```
steamcmd +login YOUR_USERNAME YOUR_PASSWORD +force_install_dir /path/to/your/server +app_update 2430930 validate +quit
```
This downloads the latest server files and validates them. The validate flag checks for corrupted files and re-downloads them if needed.
Update via Steam client (alternative). If you installed the server through the Steam client (e.g., using the ‘ARK: Survival Ascended Dedicated Server’ tool), open Steam, go to your Library, and filter by ‘Tools’. Right-click on ‘ARK: Survival Ascended Dedicated Server’ and select ‘Properties’. Go to the ‘Updates’ tab and ensure ‘Always keep this game updated’ is selected. Steam will automatically update the server when a new patch is available, but you can also click ‘Check for updates’ to force it.
Verify the update. After the update completes, check the server’s version. You can do this by starting the server and looking at the console output, or by checking the version file in the server directory (often steamapps/appmanifest_2430930.acf). Compare it with the current client version to ensure they match.
Restart the server. Start the server again using your usual startup script or command. Make sure to include the same launch parameters (e.g., map, session name, port). Watch the logs to confirm it loads correctly and no mods are incompatible.
Update mods (if any). ASA mods are typically updated automatically when the server restarts, but sometimes they require a manual update. Check the mod list in your server’s GameUserSettings.ini and ensure each mod ID is current. You can force mod updates by running the server with the -modupdate flag.

Common Mistakes

Not stopping the server before updating. Updating while the server is running can corrupt files or cause the update to fail. Always stop the server first.
Using the wrong app ID. ASA’s server app ID is 2430930. Using the client app ID (2430930 is the same, but be careful—the client is 2430930 as well, but the dedicated server is a separate tool). Double-check that you’re updating the server, not the client.
Forgetting to validate. Skipping the validate flag can leave missing or corrupted files. Always use it.
Not backing up. If an update breaks your server, you’ll lose everything without a backup. Always back up before updating.
Ignoring mod updates. Mods can break after a game update. Check for mod updates and compatibility.

Tips

Schedule updates during off-peak hours to minimize player disruption.
Use a script to automate the update process. For example, a batch file or shell script that stops the server, runs SteamCMD, and restarts the server.
Keep an eye on the official ARK community forums or Discord for patch notes and known issues before updating.
If you have mods, test them on a separate test server before applying the update to your main server.
Consider using a server manager tool (like ARK Server Manager) that can handle updates automatically.

Troubleshooting

Update fails with ‘Error! App ‘2430930’ state is 0x202 after update job.’ This usually means a file is locked or the server is still running. Stop the server completely and try again. Also, ensure you have write permissions to the server directory.
Server won’t start after update. Check the server logs for missing mods or incompatible configuration. Try disabling all mods temporarily to see if the server starts. If it does, re-enable mods one by one to find the culprit.
Players can’t connect after update. Ensure your server version matches the client version. If not, the server may need a restart after the client update, or you may need to update the server again.
Mods are out of date. In the server console, type mods to see the mod status. You can manually update mods by using the modupdate command or by deleting the mod cache in the server’s Content folder.
SteamCMD login fails. If you’re using anonymous login, some servers require a real account. Try logging in with your Steam username and password. If you have Steam Guard enabled, you’ll need to enter the code sent to your email.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need to update my server every time the game updates?

Yes, to keep your server compatible with the latest client version. If you don’t update, players with the latest client may not be able to join.

Can I update my server without SteamCMD?

Yes, if you installed the server via the Steam client, you can update it through the client’s ‘Updates’ tab. However, SteamCMD is more reliable and recommended for dedicated servers.

Will updating my server delete my world saves?

No, updates do not delete saved data. However, it’s always wise to back up your Saved folder before updating, just in case something goes wrong.

How long does an update take?

It depends on your internet speed and the size of the update. Typically, it takes a few minutes to download and validate the files.

What if I use mods? Do they update automatically?

Most mods update automatically when the server restarts, but sometimes they require a manual update. You can force mod updates by running the server with the -modupdate flag.

Can I update my server while players are online?

Technically yes, but it’s not recommended. The update may fail or cause instability. Always stop the server, update, and then restart it.

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