How to set up a Minecraft server (Paper) step by step

Updated Nov 4, 2026

To set up a Minecraft Java server, install Java 21, download the Paper server jar for your version, run it once, set eula=true in eula.txt, then start it again. Add plugins to the plugins folder, or start from a ready-made server setup.

Steps

1. Install Java

   Minecraft 1.20.5 and newer need Java 21. Install it and check with java -version.

2. Download Paper

   Download the Paper jar for your Minecraft version into an empty folder. Paper is faster than vanilla and runs plugins.

3. First start

   Run java -Xms2G -Xmx4G -jar paper.jar --nogui. It stops after creating eula.txt.

4. Accept the EULA

   Open eula.txt, change eula=false to eula=true and save.

5. Start and configure

   Start it again. Edit server.properties for the name, game mode and player limit. Players join with your IP; open port 25565 on your router or use a host.

6. Add plugins or a setup

   Add plugins to the plugins folder, or unzip a ready-made server setup with its plugins and configs already done.

Tips

• Give the server 4 GB or more of RAM for a small SMP with plugins.
• Back up the world folder regularly, especially before updates.

Frequently asked questions

Browse Minecraft server setups