Gaming servers allow multiple players to connect and play online games together. There are different types of servers and the kind you choose impacts performance, customization options, and the overall experience.
We are here to help you understand the key differences so you can pick the right server setup for your needs – whether you’re a casual player looking for a smooth experience or a hardcore gamer who needs maximum performance.
We’ll discuss what makes dedicated, cloud, virtual private, and other common server types unique. By the end, you’ll know what factors to consider when deciding on a game server.
Gaming Servers – Foundational Concepts
Dedicated vs Non-Dedicated Servers:
The core difference is that dedicated servers use a separate machine devoted solely to hosting the game, while non-dedicated servers are hosted on a player’s own computer or console. Dedicated servers like an ark dedicated server or Minecraft Realms server offer way better performance and stability since the entire machine is optimized for that one task.
Games with dedicated server options like Ark: Survival Evolved and Minecraft allow running persistent worlds that don’t get interrupted when the host goes offline. An ark dedicated server ensures your Ark game world keeps running 24/7 without dropouts.
On the other hand, non-dedicated servers rely on the host’s internet connection and system resources. So gameplay suffers if the host has a slow connection or not enough power. Dedicated servers eliminate that problem with enterprise-grade internet and hardware.
Official vs Community Servers:
Official servers are run and regulated by the game’s developers. Community servers are set up and managed by players, groups, or organizations. Many games allow this officially or unofficially.
Community servers often get modified (modded) with custom maps, gameplay rules, and other content created by the community. While official servers stick to the original game content and rules from the developers.
So community servers enable more experimentation and variety, but official servers provide a pure, intended experience directly from the creators.
Other Server Types to Consider
Regional Servers
These are dedicated servers located in specific geographic regions to provide the best possible ping/latency for players in that area. Games with big worldwide player bases often have regional servers across multiple continents and countries.
Choosing a regional server close to your location ensures a smooth, low-latency connection for competitive online play.
Private Servers
As the name implies, these are closed-off, password-protected servers limited to a specific group or community. They provide a more controlled, invite-only environment away from the public servers. Private servers are popular for things like Minecraft server networks, friend groups who want their own space, or competitive teams practicing together.
Role-Playing Servers
In many MMOs and open-world games, you’ll find community-run role-playing (RP) servers with their own custom rules, storylines, and player interactions. RPPvP servers work the same way as PvP (player versus player) servers do.
People create rich alternate personas and civilizations within the game world. RP servers cater to a niche player base that wants that blended narrative experience beyond just standard gameplay.
The optimal server type depends on your priorities. Regional servers are a must for fast-paced multiplayer. Private servers enable insular communities. And RP servers provide a creative storytelling outlet. Considering your reasons for playing can help narrow down the ideal server.
Conclusion
At the end of the day, the server you play on can drastically impact your overall online gaming experience. From performance and customization to privacy and roleplaying, each server type caters to different gaming needs and preferences.
Take the time to understand the unique advantages of dedicated, regional, private, and other specialized servers. Then make an informed decision to find the perfect server environment aligned with your individual gameplay goals. The right server can make a world of difference to your gaming experience.
