How to Make a Minecraft Server (Java Edition Guide)

Creating your own Minecraft server lets you play with friends on your own terms. You control the rules, world settings, and who can join, without relying on public servers. Whether you want a small private survival world or a long-term multiplayer setup, making a Minecraft server is easier than it looks if you follow the right steps.

What You Need Before Starting

Before setting up the server, make sure you have the following:

• Minecraft Java Edition
• Windows, macOS, or Linux PC
• Java 17 or newer
• Stable internet connection
• At least 4 GB RAM recommended

If your PC can already run Minecraft smoothly, it can usually host a small server without issues.

Verify Java Installation (Important)

Minecraft servers require the correct Java version. Using an outdated or missing Java install is one of the most common reasons servers fail to start.

1. Open Command Prompt (Windows) or Terminal (macOS/Linux)
2. Run:

java -version

You should see Java 17 or newer.

If Java is missing or outdated, install the latest version from the official Java website before continuing.

Step 1: Download the Official Minecraft Server File

Mojang provides an official server file for every Minecraft Java version.

1. Visit the official Minecraft server download page
2. Download the minecraft_server.jar file
3. Create a new folder on your PC (example: MinecraftServer)
4. Move the .jar file into that folder

Keeping everything in one folder makes future management easier.

See also: 5 Best Minecraft Server Hosting Services

Step 2: Run the Server for the First Time

The first launch generates essential configuration files.

1. Open the server folder
2. Open Command Prompt / Terminal in that folder
3. Run the following command:

java -Xmx2G -Xms1G -jar minecraft_server.jar nogui

The server will start briefly, generate files, and then stop. This is expected.

Step 3: Accept the Minecraft EULA

Minecraft requires agreement to its End User License Agreement.

1. Open eula.txt in the server folder
2. Change:

eula=false

to:

eula=true

3. Save the file

Without this step, the server will not start.

Step 4: Start the Minecraft Server Properly

Run the same command again:

java -Xmx2G -Xms1G -jar minecraft_server.jar nogui

This time, the server will fully load and create files such as:

• server.properties
• world
• logs

Your Minecraft server is now running.

Step 5: Join Your Minecraft Server

To connect to your server:

1. Open Minecraft Java Edition
2. Click Multiplayer
3. Click Add Server

Use one of the following addresses:

• Same PC:localhost
• Same network:your-local-IP-address

Once added, select the server and click Join Server.

Step 6: Allow Friends to Join (Port Forwarding)

To let friends join from outside your network:

• Open your router settings
• Forward TCP port 25565
• Assign it to your PC’s local IP address

After this, share your public IP address with friends. They will use it instead of localhost.

Minecraft Server Settings You Should Know

You can customize basic gameplay rules in server.properties. These settings are safe for beginners to change:

Setting	What It Does
gamemode	Survival, Creative, Adventure
difficulty	Peaceful, Easy, Normal, Hard
pvp	Enable or disable PvP
max-players	Limit player count
view-distance	Controls render distance

Always restart the server after making changes.

Optional: Use Paper for Better Performance (Recommended)

The default server works, but Paper offers better performance and plugin support.

To use Paper:

1. Download the Paper server .jar
2. Replace minecraft_server.jar with the Paper file
3. Run the same startup command

Paper does not change gameplay and significantly reduces lag on most systems.

How to Stop the Server Safely

Never close the server window directly.

To shut down correctly:

1. Click the server console
2. Type:

stop

3. Wait for the save confirmation

This prevents world corruption and player data loss.

FAQs Minecraft Server

Is it free to make a Minecraft server?

Yes. The server software is completely free.

Can I run a server on 4 GB RAM?

Yes, for small groups (2–6 players).

Do I need port forwarding?

Only if players are joining from outside your network.

Can I add mods later?

Yes. You can switch to Forge or Fabric at any time.

Does the server run if Minecraft is closed?

Yes. The server runs independently of the game client.

Making a Minecraft server gives you full control over your multiplayer experience. For most players, a Java Edition server with Paper is the best balance of performance, flexibility, and simplicity.

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Once your server is running, you can expand it with plugins, mods, or custom worlds to match your playstyle.