How to Make a Minecraft Server
A complete, beginner-friendly walkthrough for setting up your own Minecraft Java server — pick a version, configure it, accept the EULA and invite your friends. Plus the one-click hosted route if you'd rather skip the setup.
There are two ways to run a Minecraft server: self-host it on your own PC, or use a managed host. Self-hosting is free but ties up your computer, exposes your home IP and needs port-forwarding; a managed host gives you a 24/7 online server with a control panel, DDoS protection and a clean IP — for the price of a couple of coffees a month.
This guide covers the self-hosted route step by step so you understand exactly how it works, and points out where a host saves you the hassle.
What you'll need
A quick checklist before you begin — have these ready and the rest is easy.
- A device to run the server (your PC for testing, or a host for 24/7 uptime).
- The correct Java version for your Minecraft version (Java 17+ for 1.18 and newer).
- The server software you want — Vanilla, Paper/Spigot, Forge or Fabric.
- A way for friends to connect — port-forwarding at home, or a clean IP from a host.
- 2–4 GB of free RAM for vanilla; more for modpacks.
Set up a Minecraft Java server, step by step
Choose self-host or a managed host
Self-hosting needs Java, port-forwarding and your PC left on 24/7. A managed host gives you an always-online server, a panel and DDoS protection in minutes. If you want zero hassle, pick a host and skip to step 6.
Pick your version and server software
Decide between Vanilla (pure Minecraft), Paper/Spigot (plugins, much better performance), or Forge/Fabric (mods). Paper is the best choice for most public servers.
Install Java and download the server
Install the Java version your Minecraft version needs (Java 17+ for modern versions), then download the matching server .jar (Vanilla from minecraft.net, or Paper from papermc.io).
Accept the EULA
Run the server once; it creates an eula.txt. Open it and set eula=true to accept Mojang's End User License Agreement. The server won't start until you do.
eula=true
Configure server.properties
Open server.properties and set the key options. The defaults are fine to start; tune max-players, view-distance and the MOTD to taste.
server-port=25565 max-players=20 view-distance=10 simulation-distance=8 online-mode=true motd=My ESAGAMES Server
Start the server and get your address
Start the server with enough RAM (see our flags below). On a host, your IP is shown in the panel instantly. Self-hosting at home means port-forwarding TCP 25565 on your router and sharing your public IP.
java -Xms2G -Xmx4G -jar server.jar nogui
Invite friends and add plugins
Share your address (IP or domain:port). On Paper, drop plugins into the /plugins folder and restart. Use a whitelist or online-mode to keep your server safe.
Keep your server fast and safe
Right-size your RAM
2–4 GB for vanilla/SMP, 6–10 GB for heavy modpacks. Too little RAM causes lag; too much wastes money.
Use Paper
Paper dramatically outperforms Vanilla for multiplayer — higher TPS with the same hardware.
Enable backups
Schedule world backups so a bad plugin or a griefer never costs you your build.
Protect your IP
Self-hosting exposes your home IP to attacks. A managed host puts a clean, DDoS-protected IP in front.
Common problems & fixes
Hit a snag? These are the issues people run into most — and how to solve them.
The server closes instantly on start
You haven't accepted the EULA. Open eula.txt and set eula=true, then start again.
"Failed to bind to port"
Another program is using port 25565, or a previous server instance is still running. Close it or change server-port.
Friends can't connect to my home server
Port 25565 isn't forwarded, or you gave out your local IP. Forward TCP 25565 on your router and share your public IP, or use a host with a clean public IP.
"Unsupported Java" or crash on launch
You're running the wrong Java version. Match Java to your Minecraft version (Java 17+ for modern versions).
Skip the setup — host it with ESAGAMES
Want it online 24/7 without port-forwarding or leaving your PC on? Our Minecraft hosting runs on high-clock CPUs and NVMe behind a multi-Tbps Frankfurt network — protected and instant.
Frequently asked questions
Is it free to make a Minecraft server?
Self-hosting on your own PC is free, but it ties up your computer, exposes your home IP and needs port-forwarding. A managed host costs a few euros a month and runs your server online 24/7 with a panel and DDoS protection.
How much RAM do I need?
2–4 GB for vanilla or a small SMP, 4–6 GB for Paper plugin servers, and 6–10 GB+ for heavy modpacks.
What port does a Minecraft server use?
The default Java port is 25565. If you self-host, forward TCP 25565 on your router; on a host it is handled for you.
How do I let friends join?
Share your server address (IP or domain, plus the port if it is not 25565). Make sure the server is online and the port is reachable.
Why won't my server start?
The most common reason is not accepting the EULA — open eula.txt and set eula=true. Also check you installed the right Java version.
Can I add plugins and mods?
Yes. Use Paper/Spigot for plugins (drop them in /plugins) or Forge/Fabric for mods. A managed host makes this a one-click install.
Keep reading
Minecraft is a trademark of Mojang Synergies AB / Microsoft. ESAGAMES is an independent hosting provider and is not affiliated with or endorsed by Mojang or Microsoft. You must own a legitimate copy of Minecraft and accept Mojang's EULA.
