Minecraft is the most popular game ever. Many people don't know how to create a Minecraft server so that you can play with friends. It's a complicated process, but don’t worry. I've been making Minecraft servers for the past 5 years, and I'm going to walk you through the whole process.

This tutorial is designed for Windows only. If you use Mac, there's another tutorial.

This is process can be rather difficult, and you have to keep your PC turned on while you are running the server. Bloom Host, which offers a dedicated solution to manage your server 24/7 and the most powerful Ryzen9 processors, is my recommendation.

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Step 1: Install Java

Before you begin, ensure that your computer is ready for Minecraft's server software. Minecraft is a Java-based video game. You will need the most recent Java version installed.

You will need to open Command Prompt to verify this. Once Command Prompt is opened, type "java --version". If Command Prompt returns 'java version "17"', then you're ready to run your server. If the version is lower than "17", (e.g. Java version 8 is required.

Step 2: Minecraft Server Files

The next step in the process is to set up the Minecraft Server File. Minecraft provides a free software program that allows you create your server. All you have to do is run the application.

1. Go to Minecraft's server page. Press the download link on "minecraft_server1.19.1". This should immediately start downloading the server program onto your machine. 2. You should put this Java jar file into a folder to keep everything organised. This folder can be located anywhere on your machine, but I recommend putting it in your Documents folder, to make sure nothing gets lost. Name the folder "Minecraft Server". 3. Once you're inside your new folder with the "minecraft_server1.19.1" jar file, you must double click this file. This action will generate some new server files.


Double-clicking the file will not open it. Right-click and select "Open With > JavaTM Platform SE binary."

Step 3 - Accepting Minecraft's End User Licence Agreement.

Your server will start generating a lot of files and then it will stop. You might be curious as to what is happening. This is where you will need to accept Minecraft's End User Licence Agreement. Only then can you continue with this Minecraft server.

Steps to agree to the Licence

1. Open the eula.txt File.


2. Replace "eula=false” with "eula=true".


3. This file should be saved


Step 4: Running the Server

Once you have signed the Licence Agreement you are now ready to run the server.

1. Return to the server jar, which did not complete because you needed to agree to the Licence. Now you can double click it again and more files will be generated. A new window will open - this is the brain of your Minecraft server.


2. As long as you keep this window open ('the brain'), your Minecraft server will run.


However, a few more steps will make sure your Minecraft Server is working exactly how you want it and will allow your friends to join you.

Enter "stop" in the line to stop the server.

Step 5: Find your IP address

Now that your server has been set up, you may be wondering what to do to get started with your new server. Don't worry, it's pretty simple.

1. Hold the Windows key, which is located beside the CTRL button. Press the "R" key simultaneously. This combination will open a RUN dialog box.


2. Type "cmd", and hit the enter key. This will open Command Prompt.


3. Type "ipconfig" when Command Prompt opens. Now note down your IPv4 and Default Gateway.


Do you want people from outside your house to come to your house?

- If you aren't interested in people, outside your house, joining your Minecraft server you can skip the rest of this tutorial. Simply connect with your IPv4 address you noted earlier and start having fun!


Follow the steps below if you are interested in connecting with others.


Step 6: Port Forwarding

Port Forwarding allows you to decide which internet traffic is allowed into your network. To do this, we define the traffic with "ports".

Minecraft's default "port", is 25565. To allow others to connect, you need to allow traffic. This traffic is going through port 2565 and through your network firewall.

1. Firstly, you need to go to your web browser and enter the Default Gateway into your address bar. You have already noted your Default Gateway in the previous step. You will now be directed towards your Wi-Fi router's interface. You will now be asked for your router's username and password. MINECRAFT SERVERS This information is usually located on the back, or bottom, of your router. If you still have trouble logging in, reset your router to factory defaults. Please refer to your router's manual for these steps.


2. Now you need to locate the "Port Forwarding", Apps and Gaming, "Security", or "Advanced” section of your router. You may see different words because each router manufacturer uses different names. Look through all the routers until one section is available where you can Port Forward.


3. Once you've found the Port Forwarding section of your profile, you'll need to create a brand new profile. I recommend calling it "Minecraft25565". You will need to enter 25565 to access all ports. This includes both ends of the range.


4. The protocol section asks you whether you want it TCP/UDP or UDP. These are methods of sending information over the internet. Most routers will offer the option of "TCP/UDP", or "Both", that you will need to choose. If your router doesn’t offer this option, create two profiles. One is "UDP", the other is "TCP".


5. Now you need to get the IPv4 you noted earlier and use it to select which computer on your network you are hosting your Minecraft server. Occasionally, your computer will be named by the "Device Name". Your device name can be found by going to "About my PC", in Windows settings.


Disclaimer: Most popular Router brands are likely to have a dedicated tutorial on how to port forward somewhere on the internet. If you have difficulty finding the right tutorial, I recommend that a tutorial be Googled.

Step 7: Server properties

Once you are done with the router, there is one more stage you can take to play with your friends.

1. Use Notepad to open your server.properties. (The server.properties file was generated in your "Minecraft Server" folder).


2. Scroll down within Notepad to the line "server-port="


3. Add your IPv4 address starting at the beginning to the end of the = sign. For example, if your IPv4 address is "192.168.56.1", the line in the server.properties file should look like: "server-port=192.168.56.1".


You have the option to change other Minecraft server settings in this file. I recommend changing the game mode and difficulty settings to ensure you are able to play Minecraft as you prefer. Once you're done, save the file and close it.

Congratulations, you have now created a Minecraft server you can share with your friends!

Use your server

Now your server is fully setup, you can start up the server again by double clicking the JAR file you put in the Minecraft Server folder.

Google will allow you to search for your Public IP address. Simply type "What's my IP" to find it. Once you have this information, you can share it with friends to allow them to connect.

Don't give your IP address out to anyone you don't trust or know. Giving someone your IP address that you don’t trust could lead to DDOS Attacks, and other network problems.