Do I need to download mods myself as a PS5 player?

No. The client automatically downloads mods from the server as soon as you join.

Why won't my server start anymore after adding mods?

It's usually a wrong mod ID or a version conflict between two mods. Check the server log first.

Can I add mods in the middle of a running game?

Yes, but a server restart is required afterwards for the change to take effect.

Install ARK Survival Ascended Mods: PC, PS5, Server

TL;DR

How you install mods for ARK: Survival Ascended depends on your platform. On PC everything runs through CurseForge, built into the game — not the Steam Workshop, which only applies to the older ARK: Survival Evolved. On PS5 you install nothing yourself — the server downloads the mods automatically as soon as you join. On your own server you simply enter the mod's CurseForge ID in the web interface and restart. No manual copying needed, as long as your host has set things up properly.

Survival game world in an open landscape

Installing mods on PC

Unlike ARK: Survival Evolved, which uses the Steam Workshop, ARK: Survival Ascended handles its mods through CurseForge, built directly into the game.

Launch ARK: Survival Ascended and open the built-in mod browser (the "Mods" menu), or use the CurseForge site / app for ARK: Survival Ascended.
Search for the mod you want — for example Structures Plus (S+) or Awesome Spyglass — and install it.
The mod downloads automatically; it's active when you launch your game.
In single-player or non-dedicated, it's enough for the mod to be enabled in the list for it to apply.

Important: consoles have no dedicated CurseForge app. There, mods come exclusively through the server you join.

Using mods on PS5 (no installation on your end)

On PS5 you don't install anything manually:

You join a server where mods are already enabled
The client automatically downloads the mod files from the server on your first connect
Depending on mod size, this can take a few minutes — be patient on your first join
If the server operator disables a mod, it disappears on your end automatically too

The same applies to Xbox Series X|S: for mods, console players depend entirely on the server.

Installing mods on your own server

Get the CurseForge ID: open the mod's page on CurseForge in your browser — the number in the URL (the project ID) is the identifier to use.
Enter the ID in the web interface: the server settings include a field for mod IDs; separate multiple IDs with commas.
Restart the server: the server downloads the mod files on the next boot and applies them automatically.
Mind the order: some mods like S+ need to load before certain overhaul mods — the load order follows the order of the entries.

Conflicts usually come from incompatible overhaul mods or outdated mod versions. A look at the server log helps you find the culprit quickly.

Popular mods for ARK: Survival Ascended

Structures Plus (S+) — extended building options, pipes, auto turrets
Awesome Spyglass — detailed info when aiming at creatures
Death Recovery Mod — marks your loot after death
Super Structures — a balance-focused alternative to S+ with its own mechanics

A properly set up ARK server with mod support saves you a lot of frustration here: instead of fiddling with FTP, entering the mod's CurseForge ID in the panel is all it takes. You'll find details on plans with full mod access, crossplay and DDoS protection on our ARK server hosting page.

FAQ

All the answers to frequently asked questions about installing mods are available in the FAQ box automatically generated below. If a question is missing, contact Lordhosting support via Discord or by ticket.