How To Make A Minecraft Server
Minecraft is the most downloaded game ever. Many people don't know how to create a Minecraft server so that you can play with friends. It's a pretty complex process, but don't worry. I've been making Minecraft servers for the past 5 years, and I'm going to walk you through the whole process.
This tutorial is specifically designed for Windows, however, if you're using Mac, I have another dedicated tutorial here.
This can be a difficult process and you need to make sure your computer is on when you are running the server. Bloom Host is my recommendation if you are looking for a dedicated solution to run your server 24/7 with the most powerful Ryzen9 processors.
Disclaimer: As an affiliate with Bloom Host, I may be compensated for any sales made using this link. Thank you for using my link.
Step 1: Installing Java
Before you begin, ensure that your computer is ready for Minecraft's server software. Minecraft is a Java-based video game. You will need the most recent Java version installed.
To verify that, open Command Prompt. Once Command Prompt is opened, type "java --version". If Command Prompt gives you 'java version 17', you can start your server. If the version is lower (e.g. Java version "8" is the minimum version that you should download.
Step 2: Minecraft Server Files
The next step in the process is to set up the Minecraft Server File. Minecraft provides a free software program that allows you create your server. All you have to do is run the application.
1. Firstly, go to Minecraft's server download page. Press the download link on "minecraft_server1.19.1". This should immediately start downloading the server program onto your machine. 2. To keep everything organized, place the Java jar file inside a folder. This folder can be placed anywhere on your machine. I recommend however that it be placed in your Documents Folder to make sure nothing goes missing. Name the folder "Minecraft Server". 3. Once you're inside your new folder with the "minecraft_server1.19.1" jar file, you must double click this file. This action will generate some new server files.
Double-click the file and it will not open. You can right click and choose "Open With> JavaTM Platform SE binary."
Step 3: Accepting Minecraft’s End User Licence Agreement.
Your server will generate a bunch of new files, and then will stop. You might be wondering what is going on! You will need to agree to Minecraft’s End User Licence Agreement. Only then can you continue with this Minecraft server.
Steps to agree to the Licence
1. Open the eula.txt files.
2. Replace "eula=false” with "eula=true".
3. Make sure to save this file
Step 4: Running the Server
Now that you have signed the Licence Agreement, it is time to start the server.
1. You will return to the server.jar. Now you can double click it again and more files will be generated. A new window will open - this is the brain of your Minecraft server.
2. As long as you keep this window open ('the brain'), your Minecraft server will run.
However, a few more steps will make sure your Minecraft Server is working exactly how you want it and will allow your friends to join you.
You can stop your server by typing "stop" in the text box.
Step 5: Locating your IP Address
You may now be curious about how to play/connect to your server. It's very easy.
1. Hold the Windows key. It is located next to the CTRL button. Press the "R", key simultaneously. This combination will bring up the RUN dialog box.
2. Enter "cmd" in the text box and hit enter. This will open Command Prompt.
3. When Command Prompt appears, type "ipconfig". Now take down your IPv4 & Default Gateway.
Do you want people to come to your home?
- If you aren't interested in people, outside your house, joining your Minecraft server you can skip the rest of this tutorial. Simply connect with the IPv4 address from earlier and you can start having fun!
Follow these steps if you want to connect with others.
Step 6: Port Forwarding
Port Forwarding allows to you control what internet traffic is allowed to enter your network. To do this, we define the traffic with "ports".
Minecraft's default port is 25565. You can allow traffic to your computer through port 25565 through your network firewall to enable other users to connect.
1. First, you will need to open your web browser. Next, enter the Default Gateway address into your address bar. (Your Default Gateway was already noted in an earlier step. You will now be directed to your Wi-Fi router's interface. You will now be asked for your router's username and password. This information can be found on the back of your router or at the bottom. If you still have trouble logging in, reset your router to factory defaults. For more information, please refer to the manual for your router.
2. Now, you'll need to find the "Port Forwarding", Apps Gaming", Security", Advanced" section of your router. Because every router manufacturer uses different names, the wording might vary. Look through all the routers until one section is available where you can Port Forward.
3. Once you have located the Port Forwarding section you will need to create a new profile. I recommend calling it "Minecraft25565". For all of the ports, you want to enter 25565. This includes both ends of the range.
4. The protocol section will ask you if you would like it to be TCP/UDP - these are methods for sending information over the internet. Most routers offer an option called "TCP/UDP", which you should select. If your router doesn't have that option, create two profiles one which is "UDP" and another which is "TCP".
5. Now you need to get the IPv4 you noted earlier and use it to select which computer on your network you are hosting your Minecraft server. Sometimes, your computer's name will be the "DeviceName". You can find the device name by going to "About my PC", under Windows settings.
Disclaimer: Most Router brands have a tutorial for how to port forward on the internet. If you are having trouble, I recommend that you Google for a specific tutorial.
Step 7 - Server Properties
After you have completed your work with the router you will only need one stage to play with friends.
1. Notepad is required to open the server.properties. (The server.properties file was generated in your "Minecraft Server" folder).
2. Scroll down in Notepad to the "server port=" line.
3. Add your IPv4 address starting at the beginning to the end of the = sign. For example, if your IPv4 address is "192.168.56.1", the line in the server.properties file should look like: "server-port=192.168.56.1".
You have the option to change other Minecraft server settings in this file. I recommend changing the gamemode and difficulty settings to make Minecraft more enjoyable. Once you're done, save the file and close it.
Congratulations, you have now created a Minecraft server you can share with your friends!
Using your Server
Now your server is fully setup, you can start up the server again by double clicking the JAR file you put in the Minecraft Server folder.
You can find your Public IP address through Google. To find your Public IP address, just type "What’s my IP?" Once you have it, you can share it with your friends so they can connect.
Please do not give your IP address to anyone that you do not know or trust. You could be vulnerable to DDOS Attacks or other network problems by giving your IP address out to people you don't trust.