> ## Documentation Index
> Fetch the complete documentation index at: https://support.zonely.gen.tr/llms.txt
> Use this file to discover all available pages before exploring further.

# ARK: Survival RCON

> A step by step setup guide to send commands to your ARK server over RCON from your site.

## 1) Prerequisites

* A working **ARK Dedicated Server** (Survival Evolved or Survival Ascended).
* Access to the admin panel.
* **RCON** can be enabled on the server.

## 2) Configure RCON on the server

1. Open the file below. The path changes by operating system.
   * **Windows**: `ShooterGame\Saved\Config\WindowsServer\GameUserSettings.ini`
   * **Linux**: `ShooterGame/Saved/Config/LinuxServer/GameUserSettings.ini`
2. In the `[ServerSettings]` section, add or update these lines:

```ini theme={null}
[ServerSettings]
RCONEnabled=True
RCONPort=27020
ServerAdminPassword=YOUR_PASSWORD
```

* `ServerAdminPassword`: Must match the **RCON Password** you enter in the panel.
* `RCONPort`: Example **27020**. If you use a different port, enter the same value in the panel.

3. Restart the server so the settings take effect.
4. On the firewall or cloud firewall, open the **RCON port** (for example **27020**) and allow the **panel server IP**.

<Tip>
  You can also pass these as **startup parameters**:\
  `... ?RCONEnabled=True?RCONPort=27020?ServerAdminPassword=STRONG_PASSWORD ...`
</Tip>

## 3) Create a server record in the panel

1. Go to **Servers**.
2. Click **Add Server**.
3. Fill in the fields:
   * **Plugin**: `RCON`
   * **Server IP Address**: The server IP or an accessible domain
   * **RCON Port**: From `GameUserSettings.ini` then `RCONPort` (for example **27020**)
   * **RCON Password**: From `GameUserSettings.ini` then `ServerAdminPassword`
4. Click **Check Plugin Connection**.
5. If you see a success message, click **Publish** to save.

<Warning>
  The **RCON Password** in the panel must match `ServerAdminPassword` exactly.
</Warning>

## 4) Troubleshooting

* **Connection failed or timed out**
  * Are IP and port correct? Did you allow the port in the OS and provider firewalls?
  * Can the server be reached at all, for example with ping or tracert?
* **Unauthorized or wrong password**
  * Do `ServerAdminPassword` and the panel **RCON Password** match?
  * Many failed attempts may trigger a temporary block. Wait, then try again.
* **Settings do not apply**
  * Is `GameUserSettings.ini` in the correct directory?
  * Did you restart after the change?
  * Do the lines sit inside `[ServerSettings]`?

## 5) Security tips

* Use a strong, long, and **unique** `ServerAdminPassword`.
* Open the RCON port only to the **panel IP**.
* Log failed attempts and rotate the password regularly.
* Serve the panel over **HTTPS**.

## 6) FAQ

**What is the default RCON port?**\
People often use **27020 to 27021**. Enter the port you configured in the panel.

**Can I use a domain instead of an IP?**\
Yes. You can use a domain the panel can reach.

**Can I add more than one ARK server?**\
Yes. Create a separate record for each server and enter the correct IP, port, and password for each.

**How should I write commands?**\
Do not use a leading slash in the panel. For example `saveworld`, `broadcast Hello`, `kick PlayerID`, `destroywilddinos`.