How to Switch Your ARK Server to PvE

Published June 8, 2026 · By Host Havoc Technical Support Team

By default an ARK: Survival Evolved server runs in PvP. Switching to PvE disables player-versus-player combat, so survivors cannot damage each other or each other's structures. You set it with a single value in GameUserSettings.ini. Players join a PvE server the same way, shown in joining your ARK server.

Switch to PvE

  1. Log into the game panel and stop your ARK service.
  2. Open Configuration Files and open GameUserSettings.ini.
  3. Find serverPVE=false and set it to serverPVE=true. If you use the guided editor instead, set the PvP/PvE mode to PvE.
  4. Save the file and start the server.

Note: Switching modes does not undo damage already done. For a clean PvE start, pair this with a server reset.