The main sources of server crashing/hanging are:
- Mods and modded saved data (This generally becomes an issue after game/devkit updates are released)
- Corrupt world/player saved data (Almost always a result of mods)
Steps for troubleshooting these issues are as follows:
- Delete the Mods folder (ShooterGame/Content/Mods), Engine, and steamapps folders.
- Run both the Steam and Mod Updater to make sure all files are the uncorrupted latest versions.
- If the issue persists after an update you will need to disable the mods by removing all the mod ids from your ActiveMods string.
- If the server is now connectable you will know the issue stems from a mod(s) and you can then add the mod ids back one at a time to find the culprit. This is also a good time to make sure all mod ids are correct as an improper mod id can cause startup issues due to a mod failing to load.
- If the server is still not connectable with mods disabled, the world/save data has been corrupted and you will need to revert to a previous backup or start a fresh world.
- Instructions for reverting to a previous save can be found here: https://my.auxilex.com/knowledgebase.php?action=displayarticle&id=29
- Instructions for wiping world/player data can be found here: https://my.auxilex.com/knowledgebase.php?action=displayarticle&id=28
Unfortunately, ARK currently does not provide any sort of log file beneficial to the cause of crashing/hanging diagnosis. If you are still unsure as to the cause of the problem you can always initiate a full server reinstall from the "Actions" menu in TCAdmin.
