How to Make a Minecraft Multiplayer Server for Free
Are you a Minecraft enthusiast looking to create your own multiplayer server without spending a dime? Well, you’re in luck! Setting up a free Minecraft multiplayer server is easier than you might think. In this article, we’ll guide you through the process step by step, ensuring that you can enjoy a thrilling multiplayer experience without any cost.
Step 1: Choose a Server Hosting Platform
The first step in creating a free Minecraft multiplayer server is to choose a hosting platform. There are several free hosting services available, but it’s essential to select one that meets your requirements. Some popular options include:
1. Minecraft Server Hosting: This is a well-known free hosting service that offers a straightforward setup process.
2. MinecraftHub: Another free hosting platform that provides a user-friendly interface and support for both Java and Bedrock editions.
3. Bukkit.org: While not a hosting service, Bukkit.org offers a community-driven platform where you can find free server hosting options.
Step 2: Install Minecraft Server Software
Once you’ve chosen a hosting platform, you’ll need to install the Minecraft server software on your computer. Here’s how to do it:
1. Download the Minecraft Server Software: Visit the official Minecraft website and download the server software for your operating system.
2. Extract the File: Once the download is complete, extract the server software file to a folder on your computer.
3. Run the Server: Open the command prompt or terminal, navigate to the server folder, and run the server using the command `java -Xmx1024M -Xms1024M -jar server.jar nogui`.
Step 3: Configure the Server
After running the server, you’ll need to configure it to your liking. Here are some essential settings to adjust:
1. Server.properties: Open the `server.properties` file in a text editor. This file contains various server settings, such as the server name, game mode, and world generation options.
2. eula.txt: Accept the End User License Agreement by editing the `eula.txt` file and changing the value to `true`.
3. Banned-IPs.txt: Add any IP addresses you want to ban from your server to this file.
4. Whitelist.txt: If you want to restrict access to your server, create a whitelist by adding the Minecraft usernames of your friends to this file.
Step 4: Transfer the Server to Your Hosting Platform
Now that your server is configured, it’s time to transfer it to your hosting platform. Here’s how to do it:
1. Zip the Server Folder: Create a zip file containing the server folder and all its contents.
2. Upload the Zip File: Log in to your hosting platform and upload the zip file to the designated server location.
3. Extract the Zip File: Once the upload is complete, extract the zip file to the server location.
Step 5: Start the Server
With the server transferred to your hosting platform, it’s time to start it:
1. Open the Server’s Control Panel: Log in to your hosting platform’s control panel.
2. Start the Server: Look for a button or option to start the server. Once the server is running, you should see a message indicating that it’s online.
3. Join the Server: Open Minecraft on your computer and join the server using the server’s IP address.
Congratulations! You’ve successfully created a free Minecraft multiplayer server. Now, invite your friends and enjoy endless hours of gameplay together.
