Setup Guides·December 28, 2025·1 min read

How to Install a Vanilla Minecraft Server

Set up the official Vanilla Minecraft server jar in minutes. Learn how to download, run, and configure a pure Minecraft server.

MCServerJars
Organization

Requirements

  • Java 21+ (Minecraft 1.20.5+)
  • 2GB RAM minimum (4GB recommended)
  • Stable internet connection

Step 1: Download Vanilla

Download Vanilla Server

Pick your Minecraft version and download the latest build.

Step 2: Create a Server Folder

Create a folder such as minecraft-vanilla and place the jar inside it. Rename it to server.jar for simplicity.

Step 3: Run the Server

Create a start script:

java -Xms2G -Xmx2G -jar server.jar --nogui

Run it once to generate configuration files.

Step 4: Accept the EULA

Open eula.txt and set eula=true.

Step 5: Configure server.properties

Adjust settings like motd, max-players, and difficulty.

Tip

Use the server.properties generator to build a clean config file.

Step 6: Open the Server to Friends

If players outside your network need to join, follow our port forwarding guide.

Vanilla vs Paper

Vanilla is stable and simple, but it lacks performance optimizations and plugin support. If you want a faster server with plugins, consider Paper.

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