Ark Server App ID Specified By Server IS Invalid: A Comprehensive Guide

Ark server app id specified by server is invalid: Survival Evolved is a popular action-adventure survival game developed by Studio Wildcard. It has captivated millions of players worldwide with its immersive gameplay and unique mechanics. However, like any online multiplayer game, players often encounter issues while managing their dedicated servers. One common error is the message “App ID specified by the server is invalid.”

This error can be frustrating for server administrators and players alike, but fortunately, it’s not insurmountable. This guide provides an in-depth explanation of the issue, why it occurs, and step-by-step solutions to fix it.

Understanding the “App ID Specified by Server is Invalid” Error

When hosting an ark server app id specified by server is invalid, the game communicates with Steam to authenticate your server using a unique Application ID (App ID). Each game on Steam has its own App ID that serves as an identifier for official and community servers. The App ID for ark server app id specified by server is invalid Evolved is 346110.

The error message “App ID specified by the server is invalid” generally occurs when there is a problem with the server’s connection to Steam, improper configuration, or outdated server files. Understanding the root causes of this issue is the first step toward resolving it.

Common Causes of the Error

1. Incorrect App ID Configuration: If the App ID used in the server configuration files is incorrect, the server will not be able to authenticate with Steam, resulting in this error.
2. Outdated Server Files: Running an outdated version of the game server can cause compatibility issues with Steam’s server verification process, leading to an invalid App ID error.
3. SteamCMD Issues: SteamCMD, a tool used to install and update Steam game servers, can sometimes malfunction or fail to properly update the game files, resulting in this error.
4. Connection Problems: Issues with the internet connection between your server and Steam’s authentication servers can also trigger this error. It may occur due to firewall restrictions or network problems.
5. Corrupted Game Files: Corrupted or missing game files can prevent proper communication with Steam, causing the App ID to be flagged as invalid.

Troubleshooting the “App ID Specified by Server is Invalid” Error

Once you understand the possible causes of the error, you can begin troubleshooting the issue. Below is a detailed guide to help you resolve the “App ID specified by the server is invalid” error in ARK: Survival Evolved.

Step 1: Verify the App ID

First and foremost, ensure that you are using the correct ark server app id specified by server is invalid: Survival Evolved. As mentioned earlier, the App ID for ARK is 346110. If the server is configured with an incorrect or outdated App ID, Steam will not be able to authenticate it.

How to Check the App ID:

1. Navigate to the server configuration file (usually named GameUserSettings.ini or ShooterGameServer).
2. Look for any references to the App ID.
3. Ensure that the App ID is set to 346110 for ark server app id specified by server is invalid.

If the App ID is incorrect, modify it and restart the server. This simple fix can sometimes resolve the issue.

Step 2: Update Server Files via SteamCMD

Outdated server files are one of the most common causes of the “App ID specified by server is invalid” error. SteamCMD is a command-line tool used to install and update game servers. Ensuring that your server files are up to date can often fix the error.

Steps to Update Your Server Files:

1. Open SteamCMD.
2. Log in anonymously using the command:
   Copy code

   login anonymous

3. Navigate to your ark server app id specified by server is invalid installation directory:
   bash

   Copy code

   cd C:\path\to\your\ARK\server

4. Use the following command to force an update of your server files:
   Copy code

   app_update 376030 validate


   The 376030 number is the dedicated ark server app id specified by server is invalid: Survival Evolved, and the validate command checks all the files for consistency and updates them as needed.

5. Once the update is complete, restart your server and check if the issue persists.

Step 3: Verify Game Files

Sometimes the problem is caused by corrupted or missing game files. Verifying the integrity of the game files ensures that no files are missing or damaged.

Steps to Verify Game Files:

1. Open your Steam client.
2. Navigate to the “Library” tab.
3. Right-click on ark server app id specified by server is invalid “Properties.”
4. Go to the “Local Files” tab and click on “Verify Integrity of Game Files.”

This process will take a few minutes. Once it’s complete, try restarting your server to see if the error is resolved.

Step 4: Check for Connection Issues

Network or connection issues between your server and Steam’s authentication servers can also trigger the error. You can troubleshoot these problems by ensuring your server can connect to Steam without interruptions.

Steps to Troubleshoot Connection Issues:

1. Firewall and Port Forwarding: Ensure that the correct ports for ark server app id specified by server is invalid are open and forwarded on your router or firewall. The key ports you need to forward are:
   • UDP 7777 (Game Port)
   • UDP 7778 (Query Port)
   • TCP/UDP 27015 (Steam Port)
2. Check Internet Connection: Ensure that your server has a stable internet connection. If your server experiences intermittent drops, it may not be able to maintain a connection with Steam’s authentication servers.
3. Restart Router: If you’re hosting the server on a local network, restarting the router can sometimes resolve connection problems.
4. Steam Authentication Servers: Sometimes, Steam’s authentication servers may be down or experiencing issues. You can check the Steam status page to ensure everything is functioning normally on their end.

Step 5: Reinstall ark server app id specified by server is invalid

If none of the above methods work, you may need to reinstall the ark server app id specified by server is invalid. This should only be done as a last resort because it involves removing and reinstalling all server files, which can result in data loss if not done carefully.

Steps to Reinstall ark server app id specified by server is invalid:

1. Stop your ark server app id specified by server is invalid.
2. Make a backup of your configuration files and any important game data.
3. Delete the existing server installation files from the server.
4. Use SteamCMD to reinstall the server:
   Copy code

   app_update 376030 validate

5. Copy back the backed-up configuration files and data.
6. Start the server and check if the error has been resolved.

Preventing Future Occurrences

While the “App ID specified by server is invalid” error can be frustrating, there are several preventive measures you can take to minimize the chances of encountering this issue in the future.

Regular Updates

Keeping your server updated with the latest patches and files is essential. Set up a routine to regularly update your ark server app id specified by server is invalid files through SteamCMD to avoid compatibility issues with Steam’s authentication servers.

Automatic Backups

It’s a good practice to schedule regular backups of your server files, configuration files, and saved games. In the event of corruption or file loss, having a backup will save time and prevent the need to start from scratch.

Monitor SteamCMD and Server Status

Keeping an eye on your SteamCMD logs and server status can help you identify issues early. If you notice errors during updates or while running the server, address them immediately before they cause more significant problems.

Use a Dedicated Hosting Service

If you are hosting your ark server app id specified by server is invalid on your local machine, consider using a dedicated server hosting service. These services provide automatic updates, high-performance hardware, and network connections, minimizing the risk of encountering errors like the invalid App ID issue.

Conclusion

The “App ID specified by server is invalid” error in ark server app id specified by server is invalid can be caused by various factors, including incorrect configurations, outdated server files, connection problems, and corrupted game files. By following the troubleshooting steps outlined in this guide, you can resolve the issue and get your server up and running again.

Remember to regularly update your server files, verify game file integrity, and ensure a stable connection to prevent future occurrences of this error. With these precautions in place, you can provide a smooth and enjoyable gaming experience for ark server app id specified by server is invalid.