Server Setup

How to Make a Minecraft Server

Run your own Java server in under ten minutes. Install Java, drop in the Paper jar, accept the EULA, and you will see Done (5.2s)! in the console, then friends join with your IP.

java, paper-1.21.4-80×24 running
$ java -Xmx2G -Xms2G -jar paper-1.21.4.jar nogui
[12:04:01] [Server thread/INFO]: Starting minecraft server version 1.21.4
[12:04:01] [Server thread/INFO]: Loading properties
[12:04:02] [Server thread/INFO]: Preparing level "world"
[12:04:03] [Server thread/INFO]: Preparing spawn area: 64%
[12:04:04] [Server thread/INFO]: Preparing spawn area: 100%
[12:04:05] [Server thread/INFO]: Done (5.214s)! For help, type "help"
[12:04:31] [User Auth/INFO]: UUID of player Steve is 8667ba71...
[12:04:31] [Server thread/INFO]: Steve joined the game
> list▋
There are 1 of a max of 20 players online: Steve

From jar to Done!

A Minecraft server is just a single jar plus a few text files. The launch command java -Xmx2G -Xms2G -jar paper-1.21.4.jar nogui starts the JVM, loads server.properties, and generates the spawn chunks. The line you are waiting for is Done (5.214s)!that means the server is accepting connections on port 25565. On a LAN, friends type your local IP and port to join; over the internet you forward TCP 25565 on your router, or hand the whole job to a managed host so the box stays online 24/7 without tying up your own PC.

Quick answers

What do I need to run a Minecraft server?

Java 21+, the server jar (Paper recommended), at least 2GB of free RAM, and a folder to run it in. For internet play you also need to forward port 25565 or use a host.

Why won't the server start the first time?

The first launch intentionally stops to generate eula.txt. Open it and set eula=true, then run the jar again. The server only boots after you accept the EULA.

How much RAM should I give it?

Start with -Xmx2G for a few friends. A busy survival world with plugins is happier at 4-6GB. Set -Xmx (max) and -Xms (start) to the same value to avoid GC pauses.

How do friends join my server?

On the same network they use your computer's local IP plus :25565. Over the internet they need your public IP with port 25565 forwarded, or a managed host that gives you a clean address.

Vanilla, Paper, or Spigot?

Paper. It is built on Spigot, runs far faster, fixes exploits, and supports the widest range of plugins. Use Vanilla only if you want zero modifications.

Do I have to leave my PC on 24/7?

Yes, a self-hosted server is only online while your machine and the jar are running. A managed host keeps it online around the clock without tying up your computer.