How to Host an MC Server Without Port Forwarding

Greetings, Dev! Are you interested in setting up a Minecraft server but don’t want to go through the hassle of port forwarding? Fear not, for it is possible to host your own MC server without port forwarding. In this article, we will guide you through the steps necessary to achieve this.

What is Port Forwarding?

Before we dive into how to host a server without port forwarding, let’s briefly discuss what port forwarding is. Port forwarding is a networking technique used to allow external devices to communicate with devices on a local network.

In the context of hosting a Minecraft server, port forwarding is necessary to allow players outside of your local network to connect to your server.

Why Host a Server Without Port Forwarding?

There are a few reasons why you may want to host a server without port forwarding. First and foremost, port forwarding can be a complicated process, especially if you aren’t familiar with networking. Additionally, some internet service providers (ISPs) may block certain ports or restrict the use of port forwarding.

By hosting a server without port forwarding, you can bypass these potential barriers and make it easier for anyone to join your server.

Method 1: Using a VPN

One way to host a Minecraft server without port forwarding is to use a VPN. A VPN, or virtual private network, creates a private network over the internet, allowing you to securely connect to a remote server.

Step 1: Choose a VPN Provider

To use this method, you will first need to choose a VPN provider. There are many different VPN services available, each with its own features and pricing. Some popular options include NordVPN, ExpressVPN, and CyberGhost.

Step 2: Install the VPN Software

Once you have chosen a VPN provider, download and install the VPN software on the computer you will be using to run the Minecraft server. Follow the instructions provided by the VPN provider to set up the software.

Step 3: Connect to a VPN Server

After installing the VPN software, connect to a VPN server. This will create a secure connection between your computer and the server.

Step 4: Start the Minecraft Server

With the VPN connection established, you can now start the Minecraft server as you normally would. Players will be able to connect to the server by using the IP address of the VPN server, which will be provided by the VPN provider.

Step 5: Configure Server Settings

Before players can connect to your server, you will need to configure the server settings. This includes adjusting the server properties and adding any plugins or mods you wish to use. Consult the Minecraft documentation for more information on how to do this.

Step 6: Share the Server IP Address

Finally, share the IP address of the VPN server with anyone who wishes to join your server. They will need to enter this IP address when connecting to the server in Minecraft.

Method 2: Using a Hosting Service

Another way to host a Minecraft server without port forwarding is to use a hosting service. Hosting services allow you to rent server space and resources from a third-party provider, who will handle the technical details of setting up and running the server.

Step 1: Choose a Hosting Provider

To use this method, you will first need to choose a hosting provider. There are many different hosting services available, each with its own features and pricing. Some popular options include Shockbyte, Nodecraft, and BisectHosting.

Step 2: Choose a Plan

Once you have chosen a hosting provider, select a plan that meets your needs. This will typically involve choosing the amount of RAM, storage space, and number of players you wish to support.

Step 3: Configure the Server

After selecting a plan, you will need to configure the server by selecting the version of Minecraft you wish to run, adding any plugins or mods, and adjusting the server properties. This can typically be done using a web-based control panel provided by the hosting service.

Step 4: Share the Server IP Address

Once the server is set up and running, share the IP address of the server with anyone who wishes to join. They will need to enter this IP address in Minecraft in order to connect to the server.

FAQ

We hope this guide has been helpful in showing you how to host a Minecraft server without port forwarding. Whether you choose to use a VPN or a hosting service, both methods can provide a convenient and accessible way to set up your own server. Happy gaming!