To make a Minecraft SMP server, download Paper server software, create a dedicated folder, run the server jar to generate files, accept the EULA, configure your server.properties, and either port forward or use a hosting provider so friends can connect. The entire process takes about 15-30 minutes for self-hosting or just a few minutes with a hosting provider.
An SMP (Survival Multiplayer) server lets you and your friends play survival Minecraft together in a shared world that stays online even when you're not playing.
What You'll Need
Before starting, make sure you have:
For Self-Hosting:
- A computer that can stay running (or run when you want to play)
- Java 17 or newer installed
- At least 4GB of RAM to allocate to the server
- Access to your router for port forwarding
- A stable internet connection
For Hosted Servers:
- A hosting provider account
- A few dollars per month (typically $5-15)
- That's it—everything else is handled for you
Choosing Your Server Software
The server software you choose affects performance, features, and plugin compatibility.
Paper (Recommended)
Paper is a high-performance fork of Spigot with optimizations and bug fixes. It's the best choice for most SMP servers.
Why Paper:
- Significantly better performance than vanilla or Spigot
- Full plugin support
- Active development and quick updates
- Built-in optimizations for multiplayer
Download: papermc.io
Spigot
Spigot adds plugin support to vanilla Minecraft but lacks Paper's optimizations.
Use Spigot if: A specific plugin requires it (rare)
Vanilla
The official Minecraft server software from Mojang. No plugin support, no optimizations.
Use Vanilla if: You want a completely unmodified experience
For a detailed comparison, see our Paper vs Spigot vs Fabric vs Forge guide.
Option 1: Self-Hosting Your SMP Server
Follow these steps to run an SMP server on your own computer.
Step 1: Install Java
Minecraft servers require Java. Download and install Java 17 or newer:
- Windows/Mac/Linux: Adoptium
Verify installation by opening a terminal/command prompt and typing:
java -version
You should see version 17 or higher.
Step 2: Download Paper
- Go to papermc.io/downloads
- Select your Minecraft version
- Download the latest build
Step 3: Create Your Server Folder
- Create a new folder for your server (e.g.,
MinecraftSMP) - Move the downloaded Paper jar into this folder
- Rename it to
server.jarfor simplicity
Step 4: Create a Start Script
Create a file to start your server with proper memory allocation.
Windows (start.bat):
java -Xms4G -Xmx4G -jar server.jar nogui
pause
Mac/Linux (start.sh):
#!/bin/bash
java -Xms4G -Xmx4G -jar server.jar nogui
The -Xms4G -Xmx4G allocates 4GB of RAM. Adjust based on your available memory. For RAM recommendations, see our Minecraft Server RAM Guide.
Step 5: Run the Server (First Time)
- Double-click your start script
- The server will generate files and stop with an EULA error
- Open
eula.txtin the server folder - Change
eula=falsetoeula=true - Save and close the file
Step 6: Configure server.properties
Open server.properties in a text editor. Key settings for SMP:
# Server name shown in the multiplayer menu
motd=My Awesome SMP Server
# Maximum players allowed
max-players=20
# Difficulty (peaceful, easy, normal, hard)
difficulty=normal
# Game mode (survival, creative, adventure)
gamemode=survival
# Enable command blocks
enable-command-block=false
# View distance (lower = better performance)
view-distance=10
# Spawn protection radius (0 to disable)
spawn-protection=0
# Whitelist (recommended for private SMP)
white-list=true
Step 7: Port Forwarding
For friends outside your network to connect, you need to port forward.
- Find your router's IP (usually
192.168.1.1or192.168.0.1) - Log into your router's admin panel
- Find "Port Forwarding" settings
- Create a new rule:
- Port: 25565
- Protocol: TCP
- Internal IP: Your computer's local IP
- Save the rule
Find your public IP: Search "what is my IP" on Google. Share this IP with friends.
Note: Port forwarding exposes your network. Only share your IP with trusted friends.
Step 8: Start Your Server
- Run your start script
- Wait for "Done!" message
- The server is now running
Step 9: Connect to Your Server
From the same computer: Connect to localhost
From the same network: Connect to your computer's local IP (e.g., 192.168.1.100)
From outside your network: Connect to your public IP
Option 2: Using a Hosting Provider
Hosting providers handle the technical setup so you can focus on playing.
Benefits of Hosted Servers
- No port forwarding - Instant access for all players
- 24/7 uptime - Server runs even when your PC is off
- Better performance - Dedicated hardware for gaming
- Easy management - Web panels for configuration
- Automatic backups - Protect your world
- DDoS protection - Security against attacks
What to Look For
When choosing a host:
- RAM: At least 4GB for a small SMP
- Storage: SSD storage for fast chunk loading
- Location: Servers near your players for low ping
- Support: 24/7 help when you need it
- Control panel: Easy plugin installation and management
Getting Started with Hosting
- Choose a hosting provider
- Select your RAM and server location
- Install Paper through the control panel
- Configure your server settings
- Share the provided IP with friends
No port forwarding, no Java installation, no leaving your PC running.
Check out Minecraft Server Hosting for reliable SMP hosting with easy setup.
Essential Server Configuration
Once your server is running, configure these important settings.
Setting Up a Whitelist
A whitelist restricts your server to approved players only—essential for private SMPs.
Enable whitelist:
- In
server.properties, setwhite-list=true - Restart the server
Add players to whitelist:
/whitelist add PlayerName
Remove players:
/whitelist remove PlayerName
Adding Operators (Admins)
Operators can use all server commands.
/op PlayerName
Remove operator status:
/deop PlayerName
Tip: Only op players you fully trust. Operators can do anything on the server.
Key server.properties Settings
| Setting | Recommended Value | Purpose |
|---|---|---|
difficulty | normal or hard | Game difficulty |
spawn-protection | 0 | Disable spawn area protection |
pvp | true or false | Allow player vs player combat |
max-players | 10-20 | Maximum concurrent players |
view-distance | 8-10 | Chunk render distance |
simulation-distance | 6-8 | Entity simulation range |
white-list | true | Restrict to approved players |
Adding Plugins (Optional)
Plugins add features like land protection, economy, and quality-of-life improvements.
Where to Find Plugins
- SpigotMC - Largest plugin repository
- Modrinth - Growing collection
- Hangar - Paper's official plugin site
How to Install Plugins
- Download the plugin
.jarfile - Place it in your server's
pluginsfolder - Restart the server
- Configure the plugin in
plugins/[PluginName]/config.yml
Recommended SMP Plugins
For a full list, see our Best Plugins for Minecraft SMP Servers guide.
Essential plugins:
- EssentialsX - Homes, teleports, basic commands
- LuckPerms - Permissions and ranks
- GriefPrevention - Land claiming
- CoreProtect - Rollback and logging
For the complete starter kit, check our 15 Essential Plugins guide.
Inviting Players
Once your server is ready, invite your friends.
Sharing Your Server IP
Self-hosted: Share your public IP (find it by searching "what is my IP")
Hosted: Use the IP provided by your hosting provider
Example format: 123.456.789.10 or play.yourserver.com
Creating a Community
Tips for a successful SMP:
- Set clear rules - Define expectations for behavior
- Create a Discord - Central communication hub
- Plan group events - Boss fights, build competitions
- Establish trust - Start with close friends, expand carefully
- Regular backups - Protect everyone's hard work
Troubleshooting Common Issues
"Can't connect to server"
- Verify the server is running (check for "Done!" message)
- Check your IP address is correct
- Ensure port 25565 is forwarded (self-hosted)
- Disable firewall temporarily to test
- Verify Minecraft versions match
Server Lag
- Reduce view-distance in server.properties
- Allocate more RAM if available
- Switch from Spigot to Paper
- Install performance plugins
- Pre-generate chunks
"Failed to bind to port"
- Another program is using port 25565
- A previous server instance is still running
- Try restarting your computer
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does it cost to run an SMP server?
Self-hosting is free but requires your PC to run. Hosted servers typically cost $5-15/month depending on RAM and features. Higher player counts need more resources.
Can I run an SMP server on my PC while playing?
Yes, but you need enough RAM for both. Allocate 4GB to the server and ensure you have at least 4GB remaining for playing Minecraft. 16GB total RAM is comfortable for this.
How many players can join my SMP server?
It depends on your RAM and CPU. A 4GB server comfortably handles 10-15 players. For 20+ players, allocate 6-8GB or more. See our RAM guide for details.
Do I need to port forward?
Only if self-hosting and you want friends outside your local network to join. Hosting providers handle this automatically—no port forwarding needed.
What are the best plugins for an SMP server?
Start with EssentialsX (commands), LuckPerms (permissions), GriefPrevention (land claims), and CoreProtect (rollbacks). See our SMP plugins guide for more.
How much RAM do I need for an SMP server?
4GB minimum for a small group (5-10 players), 6-8GB for 10-20 players, and 8-10GB+ for larger communities. Plugin count and world age also affect requirements.
Can friends on Xbox or PlayStation join my Java SMP?
No, Java and Bedrock are separate. Java servers only work with Java Edition players. For cross-platform play, you need a Bedrock server or a proxy plugin like GeyserMC.
How do I keep my server running 24/7?
Either leave your computer running constantly (not ideal), use a hosting provider (recommended), or set up a dedicated machine or Raspberry Pi. Hosting providers offer guaranteed uptime without the hassle.
