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How to Host and Play Minecraft Multiplayer Servers With Friends

I have over 10 years of experience playing Minecraft and hosting multiplayer servers. Here is everything you need to know to create your own server and play with friends.

Why Host Your Own Minecraft Server

Hosting your own Minecraft multiplayer server allows you to:

  • Play online with friends any time
  • Customize the gameplay with mods, plugins, and data packs
  • Control user access and permissions
  • Avoid in-game purchases on public servers
  • Foster creativity and collaboration

The best part is that setting up a server is free and easy!

Requirements

To host a Minecraft server you need:

  • A computer – This can be a desktop PC, laptop, or even a Raspberry Pi
  • Java 8 – Required to run the Minecraft server software
  • Stable internet connection – Preferably 5 Mbps upload for a small server
  • Port forwarding enabled – Allows external connections to your home network

Optional Items

These can improve performance but are not strictly necessary:

  • Dedicated server computer – Reduces lag by freeing up your personal machine
  • Static IP address – Makes it easier for players to connect
  • Fast internet speeds – Supports more players without lag

Step 1 – Install Java

Java 8 is required to run the Minecraft server.

On Windows:

On Mac:

  • Download Java 8 from adoptium.net
  • Open the .dmg file and run the pkg installer

On Linux:

  • Install OpenJDK 8 using your package manager

Step 2 – Download the Minecraft Server

  1. Go to minecraft.net
  2. Click the Java Edition server .jar to download

Do not run the file yet!

Step 3 – Set Up Server Folder

Create a new folder to store your server files. For example, MinecraftServer.

This keeps all server data neatly in one place.

Step 4 – Launch the Server

  1. Open a terminal/command prompt
  2. cd into the server folder
  3. Run the server with java -Xmx1024M -Xms1024M -jar {server.jar filename}
  4. Accept the EULA to continue

-Xmx/-Xms allocates RAM to improve performance

Step 5 – Configure Server Properties

  1. Stop the server with stop
  2. Open server.properties in a text editor
  3. Set a motd (message-of-the-day)
  4. Change gamemode from Survival to Creative (or vice-versa)
  5. Save changes and restart server

Customize other settings as you want.

Step 6 – Port Forward

  1. Log in to your router configuration page (192.168.0.1)
  2. Find the port forwarding section
  3. Add a new rule:
  • Service Name – Minecraft
  • External/Internal Port – 25565
  • Internal IP – Your computer’s IP
  • Protocol – TCP & UDP
  1. Save changes

Port 25565 is standard for Minecraft servers.

Step 7 – Connect & Play!

To connect from the same network:

  • Open Minecraft Java Edition
  • Click Multiplayer
  • Add Server
  • Enter localhost as the address
  • Click Done

To connect externally:

  • Replace localhost with your public IP address
  • Share IP with friends
  • Join and play together!

Have fun exploring your Minecraft multiplayer server! Let your creativity run wild.

Going Further

  • Allocate more RAM for better performance
  • Install plugins like WorldEdit for advanced building
  • Run mods like Pixelmon to add Pokémon into the game
  • Automate server tasks with manager panels like Multicraft
  • Host mini-games and events for the community

The possibilities are endless when you host your own Minecraft server. Give it a try!

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