Notes

How To Make A Minecraft Server

Minecraft is the best selling game of all time. Many people don't know how to create a Minecraft server so that you can play with friends. It's not an easy task, but it's possible. 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 is process can be rather difficult, and you have to keep your PC turned on while 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: I am an affiliate with Bloom Host and may receive a commission at no cost to you with purchases made with this link. I appreciate your support of this free project if you use my link.



Step 1: Install Java



Before you begin, ensure that your computer is ready for Minecraft's server software. Minecraft is a Java-based platform so make sure Java is updated.



You will need to open Command Prompt to verify this. Once Command Prompt has been opened, type "java-version" If Command Prompt shows 'java Version 17'', then you can run your server. If the version is lower (e.g. Java version "8" will be required to be downloaded from Java's Website.



Step 2: Minecraft Server Files



The next step in the process is to set up the Minecraft Server File. Minecraft offers a free program that allows you to create a server by simply running the application.



1. Go to Minecraft's server page. Press the download link on "minecraft_server1.19.1". The server software should now be downloaded onto your computer. 2. To keep everything organized, you should place the Java jar file in a folder. This folder can be located anywhere on your machine, but I recommend putting it in your Documents folder, to make sure nothing gets lost. 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 (EULA)



Your server will create a bunch new files and then stop. You might be wondering, "What's the deal?" You will need to agree to Minecraft’s End User Licence Agreement. Only then can you continue with this Minecraft server.



These are the steps to agree to the Licence



1. Open the eula.txt File.


2. Replace the line "eula=false" to "eula=true".


3. Save this file


Step 4: Running the Server



Now that you have signed the Licence Agreement, it is time to start the server.



1. Return to the server Jar. The server jar did not close because you had to agree with the Licence. Double-click it again to generate more files. 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.



Simply enter "stop" to stop your server.



Step 5 - Finding your IP Address



Now that your server is up and running, you might be wondering how to connect to it. Don't worry, it's pretty simple.



1. Hold the Windows key, located just beside the CTRL button. Press the "R" key simultaneously. This combination will open a RUN dialog box.


2. Enter "cmd" in the text box and hit enter. This will open Command Prompt.


3. When Command Prompt is open, type "ipconfig". Now, note down your IPv4 address and default gateway.


Do you want people from outside your house to come to your house?



- If you aren't interested in people, outside your house, joining your Minecraft server you can skip the rest of this tutorial. Simply connect to the IPv4 address you provided earlier and have fun!


- If you do want others to connect, follow the steps below.


Step 6: Port Forwarding



Port Forwarding allows you to decide which internet traffic is allowed into your network. This is done by defining the traffic with "ports".



Minecraft's default "port", is 25565. To allow others to connect, you need to allow traffic. This traffic is going through port 2565 and through your network firewall.



1. Firstly, you need to go to your web browser and enter the Default Gateway into your address bar. (Your Default Gateway was already noted in an earlier step. Now you will be directed to the interface of your Wi-Fi router. You will now be asked for your router's username and password. You can find this on the back or bottom of your router. If you still have trouble logging in, reset your router to factory defaults. These steps can be found in the manual of your router.


2. Now you want to find the "Port Forwarding", "Apps & Gaming", "Security" "Advanced" section or your router. Each router manufacturer has its own terminology so the wording may differ. Take a look at all routers until you find one that allows you to Port Forward.


3. Once you find the Port Forwarding section, you need to add a new profile. I suggest you name it "Minecraft25565". You should enter 25565 for all ports. This includes both ends.


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 offer this option, create two profiles. One is "UDP", the other is "TCP".
minecraftservers

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 will be called the "Device name". You can find the device name by going to "About my PC", under Windows settings.


Disclaimer: The majority of Router brands will have a tutorial on how to forward somewhere on the Internet. If you need help, I recommend searching Google for a specific tutorial.



Step 7 - Server Properties



Once you are done with the router, there is one more stage you can take to play with your friends.



1. Open your server.properties file with Notepad. (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 from before to after 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. For example, I recommend changing the game mode, and difficulty settings, to ensure it's how you like to play Minecraft. When you're finished making your changes, save and close this file.



Congratulations, you have now created a Minecraft server you can share with your friends!



Use 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.



Google will allow you to search for your Public IP address. Just type "What's My IP" to find it. Once you have this, you can give it to your friends for them to connect with.



Your IP address should not be shared with anyone you don't know or trust. Giving someone your IP address that you don’t trust could lead to DDOS Attacks, and other network problems.


Here's my website: https://minecraftservers.blog/