How to Host a Server on Minecraft Bedrock – A Comprehensive Guide for Devs

Hello Dev, if you’re looking to host a server for Minecraft Bedrock, then you’ve come to the right place. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced player, setting up a server can be a daunting task. But fear not, we’ve got you covered. In this article, we’ll guide you through the process step by step, from choosing a hosting provider to installing plugins and managing your server. So let’s get started!

Choosing a Hosting Provider

Choosing the right hosting provider is crucial for a smooth and hassle-free server experience. Here are a few things to consider:

1. Server Location

The location of your server can affect the latency and connection quality for your players. Choose a hosting provider with servers located in the same region as your target audience.

2. Server Specifications

Choose a hosting provider that offers servers with high CPU and RAM specifications. This will ensure that your server can handle a large number of players and plugins without lag or crashes.

3. Price

Hosting prices can vary widely depending on the provider and the specifications of the server. Choose a hosting provider that offers a good balance between price and performance.

4. Customer Support

Look for a hosting provider with good customer support. You’ll want someone to turn to if you encounter any technical issues or need help with server management.

5. Reputation

Do some research on the hosting provider before choosing them. Look for reviews and testimonials from other Minecraft server owners to ensure that the provider is reliable and trustworthy.

Setting up the Server

Once you’ve chosen a hosting provider, it’s time to set up your server. Here’s how:

1. Installing Minecraft Bedrock Server

The first step is to download and install the Minecraft Bedrock Server software from the official website. Follow the instructions on the website to download and install the software on your server.

2. Configuring Server Settings

After installing the software, you’ll need to configure the server settings. Open the server.properties file in a text editor and set the server name, max players, and other settings according to your preferences.

3. Port Forwarding

If you’re hosting the server on your own computer or network, you’ll need to set up port forwarding to allow incoming connections to the server. Consult your router documentation for instructions on how to do this.

4. Whitelisting Players

If you want to limit access to your server to a select group of players, you can whitelist their usernames in the server settings. Open the whitelist.json file in a text editor and add the usernames of the players you want to whitelist.

5. Starting the Server

Finally, start the server by running the Minecraft Bedrock Server software. You should see a command prompt window with the server log output. Congratulations, you’ve successfully set up a Minecraft Bedrock Server!

Managing the Server

Now that your server is up and running, you’ll need to manage it to ensure that everything runs smoothly. Here are some tips:

1. Installing Plugins

Plugins are add-ons that can enhance the functionality of your server. You can find a wide range of Minecraft Bedrock Server plugins online. Follow the instructions provided with the plugin to install it on your server.

2. Backing up Your Server

Regular backups are essential to prevent loss of data in case of server crashes or other issues. You can use a backup plugin or manually copy the server files to a backup location.

3. Monitoring Server Performance

Keep an eye on your server’s performance to ensure that it’s running smoothly. Use performance monitoring tools to check CPU and RAM usage, server response times, and other metrics.

4. Managing Player Complaints

As a server owner, you’ll need to deal with player complaints and issues. Be prepared to handle disputes, ban players who violate server rules, and generally act as a fair and responsible administrator.

5. Updating the Server Software

Minecraft Bedrock Server software is regularly updated with bug fixes and new features. Stay up to date with the latest software releases by checking the official Minecraft website or your hosting provider’s control panel.

FAQ

Q. What is Minecraft Bedrock?

Minecraft Bedrock is the edition of Minecraft that is designed for consoles, mobile devices, and Windows 10. It supports cross-platform play and allows players to join servers hosted on any platform.

Q. Do I need a powerful computer to host a Minecraft Bedrock Server?

No, you don’t need a powerful computer to host a Minecraft Bedrock Server. You can use a low-spec computer or a hosting provider to run the server.

Q. Can I customize the gameplay settings of my Minecraft Bedrock Server?

Yes, you can customize the gameplay settings of your Minecraft Bedrock Server by editing the server.properties file. You can set custom game modes, difficulty levels, and more.

Q. How many players can join my Minecraft Bedrock Server?

The number of players that can join your Minecraft Bedrock Server depends on the server specifications and the number of plugins installed. A high-spec server can support hundreds of players, while a low-spec server may only support a few dozen.

Q. Can I use mods on my Minecraft Bedrock Server?

No, Minecraft Bedrock doesn’t support mods. However, you can use plugins to add new features and functionality to your server.

Conclusion

Setting up and managing a Minecraft Bedrock Server can be a rewarding experience, but it requires careful planning and attention to detail. With the tips and guidance provided in this article, you should be able to host a successful server that provides hours of fun and entertainment for your players. Good luck!