How to Host Minecraft Server on Linux

Hello Dev, are you a Minecraft enthusiast looking for a reliable and cost-effective way to host your own Minecraft server? Look no further! In this article, we’ll guide you through the process of setting up a Minecraft server on Linux, which is both affordable and accessible for all levels of users.

Getting Started

Before we jump into the technical details, let’s go through some of the basics. Firstly, you’ll need a Linux server, whether it be a local machine or a remote one. You’ll also need to make sure your server meets Minecraft’s minimum requirements, such as enough RAM and CPU power.

Once you’ve set up your server, you’ll need to download the latest version of Minecraft server software, which can be found on the official Minecraft website. It’s important to keep this software up-to-date to ensure maximum security and stability.

Now that you’ve got the essentials sorted, let’s dive into the specifics of hosting a Minecraft server on Linux.

Installing Java

In order to run Minecraft on your Linux server, you’ll need to install a Java Runtime Environment (JRE). To do this, simply open the terminal and enter the following command:

sudo apt install default-jre

This will install the latest JRE and enable your server to run Java-based applications like Minecraft.

Configuring Firewall

Next up, you’ll need to configure your server’s firewall to allow incoming connections to your Minecraft server. By default, Linux servers block all incoming connections to prevent unauthorized access.

To allow incoming connections on port 25565, which is the default port for Minecraft servers, enter the following command in the terminal:

sudo ufw allow 25565/tcp

This will allow incoming TCP connections to your Minecraft server on the default port.

Setting up Minecraft Server

Now that the technicalities are out of the way, it’s time to set up your Minecraft server. Simply follow these steps:

1. Create a directory for your Minecraft server files
2. Copy the downloaded Minecraft server software to this directory
3. Start the Minecraft server by running the following command in the terminal:

java -Xmx1024M -Xms1024M -jar minecraft_server.jar nogui

This command allocates 1GB of RAM to your Minecraft server and starts it without a graphical user interface (GUI). You can modify the amount of RAM allocated depending on your server’s specifications.

Configuring Minecraft Server

Now that your Minecraft server is up and running, you’ll need to configure it to suit your preferences. This can be done through the server.properties file, which can be found in the same directory as your Minecraft server files.

Simply open this file in a text editor and change the settings as desired. Some of the most commonly changed settings include the server name, maximum player count, and game mode.

Invite Players to Your Minecraft Server

Now that your Minecraft server is up and running, it’s time to invite your friends to play with you. Simply share your server’s IP address with them, along with the port number (25565 by default).

Your server’s IP address can be found by entering the following command in the terminal:

ip addr show eth0 | grep inet | awk '{ print $2; }' | sed 's/\/.*$//'

Replace “eth0” with the relevant network interface name, which can be found by running the “ifconfig” command.

Managing Your Minecraft Server

Now that your Minecraft server is up and running, you’ll need to manage it to ensure optimal performance and security. This can be done through various tools and plugins, depending on your needs.

Some popular tools for managing Minecraft servers on Linux include:

• McMyAdmin
• Multicraft
• MineOS

These tools provide a user-friendly interface for managing your Minecraft server, including features such as automatic backups, plugin support, and user management.

FAQ

What are the minimum requirements for hosting a Minecraft server on Linux?

The minimum requirements for hosting a Minecraft server on Linux are:

• At least 1GB of RAM
• At least 1GHz CPU
• Linux operating system
• Java Runtime Environment (JRE) installed
• 20GB of available storage space

How do I allocate more RAM to my Minecraft server?

To allocate more RAM to your Minecraft server, modify the “-Xmx” and “-Xms” parameters in the start command. For example, to allocate 2GB of RAM, use the following command:

java -Xmx2048M -Xms2048M -jar minecraft_server.jar nogui

How do I enable plugins on my Minecraft server?

To enable plugins on your Minecraft server, first download the desired plugins and upload them to the “plugins” folder in your server directory. Then, restart your server and the plugins should be loaded automatically.

How do I backup my Minecraft server on Linux?

To backup your Minecraft server on Linux, simply copy the server directory to an external hard drive or cloud storage service. It’s also recommended to use a backup plugin or tool, such as McMyAdmin, which automates the backup process and ensures maximum safety.

How do I update my Minecraft server software?

To update your Minecraft server software, simply download the latest version from the official Minecraft website and replace the existing server files with the new ones. Make sure to backup your server files before updating to prevent data loss.

Conclusion

Hosting a Minecraft server on Linux may seem daunting at first, but with the right tools and knowledge, it can be a rewarding and affordable way to enjoy Minecraft with your friends. By following the steps outlined in this article, you’ll be up and running in no time!