Fix ARK: Server App ID Invalid Error

Are you encountering the frustrating “ARK Server App ID Specified by Server is Invalid” error when trying to join your ARK: Survival Evolved server? This error prevents players from connecting and can disrupt gameplay. This guide provides a comprehensive solution to resolve this issue, ensuring you and your fellow survivors can return to the ARK.

Key Takeaways

• The 'ARK Server App ID Invalid' error typically arises from discrepancies between the server and client game versions or corrupted game files.
• Verifying the game file integrity on both the server and client is a primary troubleshooting step.
• Ensuring the server is updated to the latest version is crucial for compatibility.
• Firewall or antivirus software may interfere with the connection and need adjustment.
• Reinstalling the game, while a last resort, can resolve deeply rooted issues.

Introduction

The “ARK Server App ID Specified by Server is Invalid” error is a common problem faced by ARK: Survival Evolved players. This error message indicates that there's a mismatch or problem with the application identification between the server and the client trying to connect. It can be triggered by a variety of factors, from outdated server versions to firewall interference. This article dives deep into the causes of this error and provides step-by-step solutions to get your server back online and your tribe back in action.

What & Why the App ID Error Occurs

Understanding the Error

The App ID is a unique identifier for an application on platforms like Steam. When an ARK server displays an “invalid” App ID, it means the client is unable to verify the server's application identity, preventing a successful connection. This typically happens during the server connection process when the client attempts to authenticate the server. — Gig Harbor, WA Zip Code: Find It Here!

Common Causes

• Version Mismatch: The most frequent cause is a difference in the game versions between the server and the client. If the server is running an older version or a modified version incompatible with the client, this error will appear.
• Corrupted Game Files: Damaged or incomplete game files on either the server or the client can lead to App ID verification failures.
• Firewall Interference: Security software, like firewalls or antivirus programs, can sometimes mistakenly block the connection between the client and server.
• Outdated Server: An outdated server may lack the necessary files or updates to correctly identify itself to newer clients.
• Installation Issues: Problems during the installation process of the game or server files can result in an invalid App ID.

Potential Risks

Ignoring this error can lead to:

• Inability to Join Server: Players will be unable to connect to the server, disrupting gameplay.
• Data Loss: In severe cases, corrupted files may lead to loss of saved game data.
• Server Instability: An improperly configured server may experience crashes and performance issues.

How to Fix the 'ARK Server App ID Invalid' Error

Follow these steps to troubleshoot and resolve the “ARK Server App ID Specified by Server is Invalid” error:

Step 1: Verify Game File Integrity

Why this works: This step ensures that all game files are correctly installed and free from corruption.

• Steam:
  1. Open Steam and navigate to your Library.
  2. Right-click on ARK: Survival Evolved and select “Properties.”
  3. Go to the “Local Files” tab.
  4. Click on “Verify integrity of game files…”
  5. Steam will check your game files and redownload any that are missing or corrupted.
• Server Files: If you are running a dedicated server, perform the same verification process for the server files via the SteamCMD tool or your server management panel.

Step 2: Update the Server and Client

Why this works: Ensures compatibility between server and client versions. — NFL Passing Leaders: Stats & Records Explained

• Client:
  1. Restart Steam to force an update check.
  2. Ensure that ARK: Survival Evolved is set to update automatically.
• Server:
  1. Use SteamCMD or your server management panel to update the ARK server files.
  2. Restart the server after the update is complete.

Step 3: Check Firewall and Antivirus Settings

Why this works: Prevents security software from blocking necessary connections. — Buying Cigarettes Online: Everything You Need To Know

• Firewall:
  1. Open Windows Defender Firewall or your third-party firewall software.
  2. Allow exceptions for ARK: Survival Evolved and the ARK Server executable.
  3. Ensure that the ports used by ARK (default: 7777, 7778, 27015) are open for both TCP and UDP.
• Antivirus:
  1. Temporarily disable your antivirus software to check if it’s interfering.
  2. If disabling the antivirus resolves the issue, add ARK: Survival Evolved and the server executable to the antivirus exceptions list.

Step 4: Reinstall the Game or Server Files

Why this works: Resolves deep-seated installation issues.

• Client:
  1. Uninstall ARK: Survival Evolved through Steam.
  2. Delete any remaining ARK files in the installation directory.
  3. Reinstall the game via Steam.
• Server:
  1. Stop the server.
  2. Delete the server files.
  3. Reinstall the server files using SteamCMD or your server management panel.

Step 5: Check Server Configuration Files

Why this works: Configuration errors can lead to incorrect server App ID identification.

• Locate Configuration Files: Navigate to your ARK server installation directory.
• Check GameUserSettings.ini and Game.ini: Open these files and ensure that the settings are correctly configured. Look for any discrepancies or errors.
• Validate Server App ID: Ensure the App ID in the configuration matches the official ARK App ID (346110).

Step 6: Contact Hosting Provider (if applicable)

Why this works: Hosting providers can assist with server-specific issues.

• Reach Out to Support: If you are using a hosting provider, contact their support team for assistance.
• Provide Details: Explain the error you are encountering and the steps you have already taken to resolve it.

Examples & Use Cases

Case Study 1: Version Mismatch

John, an ARK server administrator, encountered the