The Java Files
Version 1.0 - Created by Red (:
Introduction
The Java Files are the essentials for starting and maintaining a
successful Minecraft SMP. By following the files, you will have
a well-setup and maintained Minecraft server that lasts as long
as possible. This is a comprehensive blueprint for a successful
Minecraft server, but it’s not guaranteed for the server to have
active players. That part is up to your community engagement and
marketing.
Buying the Server
You must buy the server off of an online hosting platform for at
least 3GB of RAM. This should cost you anywhere from $6–$15 per
month, depending on the host and the CPU quality.
Key Requirements:
RAM: Minimum 3GB. Anything less will struggle with the
recommended mods and a handful of players. 4GB or 6GB is
safer and allows for more players and world exploration
without lag.
CPU: Prioritize a host that offers a newer, high single-core
performance CPU. Minecraft is famously single-threaded, so a
fast clock speed is better than a high core count.
If you have a working way to host a 24/7 server that meets the
RAM and CPU requirements (and you have excellent, stable
internet), use that to save money. Be aware of the added
technical and security overhead.
Setting Up the Server
Use Fabric on the latest possible Minecraft version. Fabric
offers better performance and stability for a modded vanilla
experience compared to Forge or Spigot/Paper.
Version Management: If a new major Minecraft update is coming in
less than 3 days, wait. This lets you launch on the freshest
version, maximizing initial hype and lifespan. As soon as the
new version is stable (usually a few hours after release),
update your server and essential mods.
Server-Side Mods (Minimum Recommended)
These mods are all essential for performance, security, and
cross-play:
Fabric API: The core library that almost every other Fabric
mod requires.
Phosphor/Starlight: Essential performance mods to drastically
improve lighting engine and general server performance.
Lithium: A powerful optimization mod that improves almost all
areas of the game's server-side physics and mechanics.
Obfuscator (Anti X-ray): Absolutely necessary to prevent
players from finding diamonds within minutes of joining. This
keeps the economy and the spirit of survival intact.
Anti Cheat: Install a lightweight, server-side anti-cheat to
stop fly-hacks and basic exploits.
Geyser MC / Floodgate: These are paired mods. Geyser allows
Bedrock Edition players (Xbox, PlayStation, Mobile, Windows
10 Edition) to join your Java server. Floodgate allows them
to join without a separate Java account, streamlining the
process. This dramatically increases your potential player
base.
Discord SRV: This is a Minecraft mod that interconnects
Minecraft and Discord chat. Not required but it adds to the
experience.
Make a Discord Server
This is the community hub - it's as important as the game server
itself.
Discord Essentials:
A Decent Look: It doesn’t have to be too professional, but
make the channel list clean. Use a clear server icon.
Channel Structure: Start with the basics: #announcements,
#rules, #chat, and a dedicated #server-info channel for
connection details and mod lists.
Roles and Permissions: Set up basic roles: Member, Owner,
etc. Crucially, make sure the @everyone role cannot post in
#announcements or #rules.
Server Settings & Community Control
You are the owner, but the players are the server's lifeblood.
Give them a voice on key issues.
The Polls System:
Create a dedicated #polls channel that can’t be talked in.
This keeps the data clean.
Use Discord polls for settings or things that you want people
to have control over. Examples:
“Should we have greifing be allowed?”
“How big should the world-border be?”
“What date/time works best for the start of the server?”
Launching the Server
The launch needs to be a scheduled event to maximize the initial
rush of players.
Setting a Start Time:
In the #announcements channel on the Discord server, set a
firm time and date for when the server officially starts.
Make sure to specify the time zone.
Crucial Step: Make sure whitelist is on before this time.
When it's time to launch, turn the whitelist off and post the
server IP simultaneously in the #announcements and #server-
info channels. This prevents a trickle of players and ensures
a fun, crowded first hour.
Rules to Follow as the Owner (The Golden Rules)
This section is non-negotiable. Your conduct is the biggest
factor in the server's long-term health.
1. NEVER give anyone Creative Mode or Operator (/op) for any
reason. People can do crazy, server-breaking things with
just three seconds of Creative Mode. The risk is never worth
the benefit.
2. If someone needs to help you with an issue on the server,
let them tell you what to do. If they are troubleshooting,
have them explain the command, and you type it. They never
need /op.
3. NEVER Admin Abuse for any reason. This includes: giving
yourself items, flying around to "check on players,"
teleporting to player bases unannounced, or killing players
you don't like. You might not think it’s a problem, but it
kills motivation to play on the server for you and anyone
you affect. The moment you break survival, your server is
compromised. Play like everyone else does.
4. Communicate Punishments: If you ban or kick someone,
announce it in a #punishments channel (or similar) on
Discord. State who and why (e.g., "Banned Player for
sustained hacking - Proof is attached."). This establishes
transparency and trust with your player base.