How to Host a Local Minecraft Server

Hello Dev, are you a Minecraft fan looking to set up your own server to play with your friends? In this article, we will guide you step by step on how to host a local Minecraft server. With our easy-to-follow instructions, you will be up and running in no time!

What is a Minecraft Server?

Before we dive into the details of how to host a local Minecraft server, let’s start with the basics. A Minecraft server is a multiplayer game server that allows players to connect and play together in the same world. It can be public or private, and can be hosted on a local computer or on a third-party hosting service.

Public vs. Private Server

Public servers are open to anyone who wants to join and play. They usually have rules and moderators to ensure fair play and a fun experience for everyone. On the other hand, a private server is only accessible to invited players, making it ideal for playing with friends and family.

System Requirements

Before you dive into hosting your own Minecraft server, it’s important to make sure that your computer meets the minimum system requirements. Here are the recommended specs:

Minimum Requirements	Recommended Requirements
OS: Windows 7/8/10 or Ubuntu 16.04 or higher	OS: Windows 7/8/10 or Ubuntu 16.04 or higher
CPU: Intel Core i3 or AMD Athlon II (K10) 2.8 GHz	CPU: Intel Core i5 or AMD Ryzen 5 1600 or higher
RAM: 4GB	RAM: 8GB or higher
Storage: 1GB	Storage: 4GB or higher

Step-by-Step Guide

Step 1: Install Java

The first step is to install Java on your computer. Minecraft requires Java to run, so it’s important to have it installed. Go to the official Java website and download the latest version of Java for your system. Once downloaded, run the installer and follow the instructions.

Step 2: Download Minecraft Server Software

Next, you need to download the Minecraft server software. Go to the official Minecraft website and download the server software for your operating system. Make sure to save it in a location that is easy for you to find.

Step 3: Run the Server Software

Once the server software has finished downloading, double-click on it to run it. It will open a command prompt window and start generating the necessary files for the server. This may take a few minutes, so be patient.

Step 4: Configure Your Server Settings

After the necessary files have been generated, the server software will create a file called “server.properties”. This is where you can configure your server settings, such as the server name, game mode, and difficulty level. You can also set a whitelist to only allow certain players to access the server.

Step 5: Port Forwarding

If you want your server to be accessible to players outside of your local network, you will need to configure port forwarding on your router. This will allow players to connect to your server using your public IP address. To do this, you will need to log in to your router and locate the port forwarding settings. Refer to your router manual if you are unsure how to do this.

Step 6: Invite Players to Your Server

Now that your server is up and running, it’s time to invite your friends to join. Simply give them your public IP address and the port number you configured in Step 5. They can use this information to connect to your server and start playing.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What is the Best Hosting Service for Minecraft Servers?

There are many hosting services available for Minecraft servers, but some of the most popular ones include Aternos, Shockbyte, and BeastNode. These hosting services offer a variety of plans and pricing options, so you can choose the one that best suits your needs.

How Many Players Can Join My Minecraft Server?

The number of players that can join your Minecraft server depends on the amount of RAM you have allocated to it. Generally, servers with 1GB of RAM can support up to 10 players, while servers with 4GB of RAM can support up to 40 players.

How Do I Set Up a Whitelist?

To set up a whitelist, edit the “server.properties” file and change the “whitelist” setting to “true”. Then, create a new file called “whitelist.json” and add the player names you want to allow on your server. Separate the names with commas.

Can I Use Mods on My Minecraft Server?

Yes, you can use mods on your Minecraft server. However, you will need to make sure that the mods you use are compatible with the version of Minecraft you are running. You may also need to install a mod loader like Bukkit or Forge.

How Do I Backup My Minecraft Server?

To back up your Minecraft server, simply copy the entire server directory and save it to a safe location. You can also use a backup plugin like Vault or Backup to automatically back up your server at regular intervals.

Can I Customize the Server Settings?

Yes, you can customize your server settings by editing the “server.properties” file. This file contains a list of all the available settings and their default values. Simply change the value of the setting you want to modify and save the file.

Hosting your own Minecraft server can be a fun and rewarding experience. With our step-by-step guide, you can easily set up your own local server and start playing with your friends. If you have any questions or run into any issues, feel free to leave a comment below and we’ll do our best to help!