How to Start a Minecraft Server in 2024

Starting a Minecraft server has never been easier. Whether you want to play with a few close friends or build a massive community network, setting up a server gives you complete control over your Minecraft experience.

Step 1: Choose Your Hosting Provider

While you can run a server on your own computer, it requires your PC to be on 24/7, exposes your home IP address, and can strain your hardware. Choosing a dedicated Minecraft server host like EnderGrid ensures high uptime, powerful CPUs, and built-in DDoS protection.

Step 2: Select Your Server Software

The original "Vanilla" software gets the job done, but most server owners choose optimized alternatives:

• Paper: Highly optimized, supports Bukkit/Spigot plugins, and eliminates lag. (Recommended)
• Purpur: A fork of Paper adding more gameplay customization options.
• Fabric/Forge: For running gameplay-altering mods instead of plugins.

Step 3: Configure settings in server.properties

Your server.properties file controls the core rules of your world. Here are a few important ones to consider:

• motd: The message players see in their multiplayer list.
• max-players: How many people can join at once.
• difficulty: Peaceful, easy, normal, or hard.

Step 4: Install Essential Plugins

If you're using Paper or Purpur, you should install a few basics:

• EssentialsX: Provides basic commands like /spawn, /home, and /tpa.
• LuckPerms: Used to manage commands and permissions for different player ranks (Admin, VIP, Default).
• CoreProtect: An advanced logging tool that lets you rollback griefing and stealing.