Minecraft is one of the most popular video games of all time. Its large online and offline communities are the reason for its popularity, hosting a Minecraft server on a VPS will provide more stability, efficient gaming, and some specific resources.
Hosting a Minecraft Server on a Virtual Private Server (VPS) is a process that enables individuals or communities to establish and maintain their own dedicated Minecraft gaming environment.
Due to Minecraft’s accessibility across a range of media, including PC games, virtual reality, gaming consoles, and mobile platforms, users have the most options in terms of how they choose to play. In this blog, you will get to know about the workings of VPS and a complete guide for its use.
What is a Minecraft Server and How Does it Work?
A Minecraft server is a privately owned or operated multiplayer gaming server for the Mojang Studios video game Minecraft, which was released in 2009. The term “server” is occasionally used to describe a network of connected servers rather than a single machine in this meaning.
Powerful computers created especially for the management of the game world are known as “Minecraft servers.” It keeps track of all the details regarding the game world, such as the landscape, structures, and player inventory. Your device transforms into a client when you connect to a Minecraft server, corresponding with the main server.
- Commands for Handling Client-Server Interaction
- Updates in real-time
- Keeping data from player interactions
For everyone to interact with one another and experience the same virtual world, a Minecraft server serves as a mediator between the players. It’s like a conductor directing a symphony of imagination and enjoyment.
Why Should You Host a Minecraft Server on a VPS?
You can get dedicated resources on a virtual computer using a VPS hosting service. In essence, you are renting space on a physical server that has been partitioned into several virtual computers. As a result, you may enjoy all the advantages of a dedicated server without incurring the exorbitant expenditures of buying and maintaining a physical server.
- You have total command over your server environment thanks to it
- You have full root access to the server and can install any operating system or program you like
- You can install modifications, plugins, and custom scripts on your server to make it exactly what your Minecraft game requires
Advantages of VPS hosting
1. Scalability and Flexibility: Scalability and flexibility are two of VPS hosting’s main benefits. You can scale your resources with a VPS following your needs.
2. Budget-Friendly: VPS hosting is a more economical option when compared to dedicated hosting. You can get dedicated resources at a much lower price with a VPS.
3. Improved Efficiency: Performance on VPS hosting is better than on shared hosting. You can experience quicker page loads, better server response times, and overall superior performance since your virtual server has dedicated resources assigned to it.
4. Specific Resources: VPS hosting gives you dedicated resources as opposed to shared hosting, which shares resources across several websites.
Disadvantages of VPS hosting
1. Limited Materials: Although VPS hosting offers dedicated resources, you are still only able to allocate a certain amount of CPU, RAM, and storage. If your website sees unexpected traffic increases, you can experience resource constraints depending on the VPS package you’ve chosen.
2. Technical Expertise Required: Compared to shared hosting, VPS hosting necessitates a certain amount of technical expertise. You are in charge of overseeing and setting up your virtual server environment as a VPS user.
3. Reliance on Hosting Company: When choosing VPS hosting, you are reliant on your hosting company for server support and maintenance. It is essential to select a dependable and reputed hosting company that provides round-the-clock technical help.
4. The Prospect of Downtime: There is still a chance of downtime even though VPS hosting typically offers better uptime than shared hosting. Temporary server downtime can be caused by things like hardware malfunctions, software problems, or even human mistakes.
What are the Requirements for Hosting a Minecraft Server on a VPS?
You’ll require more RAM and disk space for larger gaming groups. For your Minecraft server, you need to meet the following minimal system requirements:
1. RAM Requirements
Aim for at least 2GB of RAM to maintain the game’s seamless operation. More RAM is preferable if several players are anticipated.
2. CPU Requirements
The CPU is insatiable for Minecraft. Look for a VPS that has two or more cores. This prevents slowdown, especially during challenging gameplay.
3. Storage Requirements
You need room for your virtual world. A fair starting point is 20GB or so of storage. But keep in mind that you’ll need additional room as you explore and construct.
If you achieve these requirements, your Minecraft server will be the ideal online hangout for friends to dig, construct, and embark on adventures.
How to Choose a VPS Provider for Your Minecraft Server?
A VPS provider allows you to have more control and flexibility as compared to when you pick a shared hosting. It allows you easy customization and provides you with resources such as RAM and Storage to host your Minecraft server.
Factors to consider when choosing a VPS provider for your Minecraft server
- Server Speed: Verify the speed of the VPS that you are considering. The VPS is pointless if it has poor speed. Lightning-fast speed is the VPS’s key characteristic. Make sure your VPS host offers data backup.
- Data Backup: It is a feature that all VPS servers must provide. You need it so that you won’t lose it and can quickly retrieve it in the event of an accident or serious issue with the server’s data. Make sure your VPS host offers data backup.
- Pricing: Before selecting a service provider, it is advised to check the packages offered by several companies. The offered services must be pricey. Make sure to verify their rates for at least two years.
Recommended VPS providers for Minecraft Servers
- ScalaHosting
Popular hosting company ScalaHosting provides a variety of hosting options, including VPS hosting. Their VPS hosting packages include devoted resources, complete root access, and a selection of control panel choices. For Minecraft server owners who want a hands-off hosting environment, ScalaHosting also offers server management services.
- The Apex Hosting
Apex Hosting is a dedicated Minecraft hosting company that provides VPS hosting options that are well-suited for Minecraft servers. A user-friendly management interface and pre-installed server software are included with their VPS services. DDoS defense, automatic backups, and round-the-clock customer support are other services offered by Apex Hosting.
- Shockbyte
Shockbyte is a well-known provider of Minecraft hosting services and provides VPS hosting packages for Minecraft servers. Their VPS plans include full root access, a selection of control panel choices, and top-notch customer service. In addition, Shockbyte offers 100% uptime assurance, automated backups, and DDoS protection.
- GameTeams
GameTeams is a Minecraft VPS hosting company that provides top-notch servers with little lag and quick response times. They provide many Minecraft server versions, quick server setup, and multiple server locations. They offer unlimited player slots, DDoS defense, and round-the-clock assistance with their $3.99 per month Minecraft VPS services.
- Hostinger
Hostinger provides VPS hosting for Minecraft. They provide a selection of Minecraft server versions, bespoke control panels, and server locations. Their monthly Minecraft VPS options start at $9.95 and include benefits like limitless bandwidth, round-the-clock support, and a 30-day money-back guarantee.
How to Set Up and Configure a Minecraft Server on a VPS?
See how you can use the most popular video game of all time to launch your next business venture. Here’s a quick guide on how to set up your own Minecraft server on a VPS:
Step-By-Step Guide to Setting Up a Minecraft Server
- Pick a Good VPS Solution
The first step in installing a Minecraft server on a VPS solution is selecting the VPS solution. When doing this, be sure to select a reputable VPS provider, but also take into account the pricing of the number of gamers you want to host on your server. A VPS giving 1 GB of RAM and 20 GB of storage space, for example, should be adequate if you don’t want to host more than 20 players.
- Use SSH to Connect to the VPS
SSH, or the Secure Shell Protocol, is used to connect to the VPS. If you’re using Windows, macOS, or Linux, you can start by installing and launching PuTTY since it’s the most popular SSH client. The IP address of your VPS should then be located, copied, and pasted into the “Host Name” column.
After that, you’ll need to enter the password and the username (also provided by your VPS provider) in the SSH terminal to access the VPS. Connect to your VPS via SSH at this time, and once the connection is established, you can customize your server however you like.
- Install JDK
Install the Java Development Kit (JDK) while you’re in SSH. Make sure you obtain the most recent version of Java before setting up a Minecraft server. Once the server has been updated, type the necessary command (for example, “apt install openjdk-16-jdk” on Ubuntu) on your terminal.
- Download and Install Minecraft on Your VPS
The next step is to make a separate directory for all of your Minecraft files, including your installation. To do this, perform a different command on the SSH terminal, such as “mkdir -p /Minecraft,” and then use the command “cd /Minecraft” to move about. Once this is finished, it’s time to install Minecraft.
- Accept the EULA
The EULA terms and conditions must be accepted before you can use the Minecraft server application, even though this seems like one of Captain Obvious’s obvious advice items. Aim to read the terms of your agreement as well. “echo “eula=true” > eula.txt” can also be used to do this.
- Activate your Minecraft Server
The time has come to start your Minecraft server. To do so, enter a command like “java -Xmx1024M -Xms1024M -jar server.jar nogui” once everything has been set up. Additionally, wait for tasks running on the SSH command line to complete.
It’s time to configure the Minecraft server now that has been installed on your VPS. These are the actions:
- Making use of a text editor like Notepad, open the Minecraft server configuration file
- Make the necessary adjustments to the parameters. Everything, including the server name, player caps, and game modes, can be customized
- Save the config file
How to Connect to Your Minecraft Server on a VPS?
SSH (Secure Shell), when used to connect to a VPS (Virtual Private Server), offers a reliable and effective solution for remote access and management. SSH creates an encrypted connection between the local computer and the VPS, preventing unauthorized access to sensitive information and commands.
- Download and set up the most recent version of PuTTY
- Launch PuTTY
- Complete the fields
- Hostname: The IP address of the VPS server
- Port 22 with SSH as the connection type
- Click the Open button
- Specify the username
Type the password, the password won’t appear when you type it because of security concerns.
Various commands can now be used to manage the server.
The secret to playing with your friends is port forwarding. Let’s follow these simple steps to start your server.
Step 1: Configure Your Minecraft Port Number
You must first select a number for your Minecraft server. This is how:
- Open the server.properties file in your server folder
- Locate the line that reads server-port
- Save the file after changing its value to the appropriate port number
Step 2: Allow the Minecraft Port on Your Firewall
Now we need to give access to our Minecraft port through the firewall of the operating system so that users can connect to your server without any problems.
Windows 11 and 10
- Open the Control Panel by typing its name into the search box
- Go to Windows Defender Firewall under System and Security
- Please select Advanced Settings.
- Right-click Inbound Rules and select “New Rule”
- The rule type should then be set to Port.
- Choose TCP as the rule type in the following tab.
- The port number you previously selected should be entered in the option for specific local ports.
- Choose Accept the connection.
- Give the rule a name before pressing Finish.
Step 3: Find the Default Gateway Address
Let’s figure out your IPv4 address, subnet mask, and default gateway before you continue. They’ll be necessary as we move on.
Windows 11 and 10
- Activate the “ipconfig” command
- Take note of the IPv4 Address, Subnet Mask, and Default Gateway
MacOS
- To launch Spotlight Search, simultaneously press the Command and Space bars
- Enter “terminal” here
- To launch the Terminal, double-click its icon. Open the Command Prompt by typing its name into the Windows search box
- Enter “netstat -nr | grep default” into the terminal
- Take note of the string of digits next to “default” in the pop-up text; that is the default gateway
Step 4: Configure a Static IP Address A static IP address is essential for distributing your Minecraft server since it offers players a reliable connecting point.
Step 5: Forward the Port on Your Router
Every router has a slightly different process for forwarding a port. But they share a lot of similarities. You can forward a port for a new router if you know how to do so on a few other routers.
Step 6: Connect to the Minecraft server
Following port forwarding, follow these instructions to connect to the server by yourself or with a friend:
- Launch the server following the instructions in “How to Set Up a Minecraft Server”
- Start using the Minecraft app
- Select the Proceed option after choosing the Multiplayer option in Minecraft
- After that, select Direct Connection
- Enter “What’s my IP address” into Google and copy this page’s IP address
- Click Join Server after entering your IP address in the Minecraft app
How to Optimize Your Minecraft Server on a VPS?
Prepare your VPS server for hosting your Minecraft server so that it can handle high player counts and traffic spikes.
- Select a hosting package that has adequate CPU, RAM, and storage capacity
- To reduce lag and enhance gameplay, modify Minecraft server settings such as render distance, view distance, and entity distance
- Increase server efficiency by using caching plugins like Bukkit or Spigot to lessen CPU burden
- To find problems or bottlenecks, keep an eye on the server’s performance using tools like top, top, and Netstat
- Installing a firewall will improve security by preventing DDoS assaults and unauthorized access
- By using a content delivery network (CDN) to cache and distribute content across numerous servers, load times can be sped up and lag can be decreased
How to Troubleshoot a Minecraft Server on a VPS?
Managing a Minecraft server might be difficult, but the majority of problems have simple fixes. Here are a few typical issues and the appropriate troubleshooting steps:
Performance Issues and Lag:
- More RAM should be given to the server
- To use fewer resources, optimize server settings
- Limit or get rid of resource-intensive plugins and mods
- Upgrade to a hosting company with greater hardware and networking capabilities
Connection Issues:
- Verify that your router has correctly routed the server’s port.
- Make sure Minecraft can connect both inbound and outbound using your firewall’s settings.
- Verify that players have entered the server’s IP address accurately by checking it twice.
- To restore network connections, try restarting your server and router.
Errors & Plugin Compatibility:
- For compatibility, make sure that all plugins are updated to the newest versions.
- Disable plugins momentarily to look for any problems.
- Check the configuration files and plugin documentation for any known conflicts or mistakes.
- Consult the Minecraft community or plugin developers for assistance.
Loss of Data
- Backup player and world data frequently to avoid losing it forever
- Use backup plugins from third parties or the built-in backup feature in Minecraft
- Use resources like Minecraft’s “Region Fixer” to restore damaged chunks if corruption occurs
- For more complex data recovery methods, check out forums or communities for Minecraft servers
Access or Permissions Problems
- Check to see if the server’s permission plugin is set up and configured correctly
- Check the groups and player permission settings twice
- Be sure to grant the appropriate permissions for commands, activities, or features
- Reload the permissions plugin or restart the server to apply modifications
What are the Security Risks Associated with Hosting a Minecraft Server on a VPS?
The following are some possible security risks in VPS:
- Access to sensitive data stored on your VPS
- Unauthorized access to your VPS account
- Malicious code or software injected into your VPS
- DDoS attacks directed at your VPS -Brute force attacks against your VPS login
Follow the below solution to fix the risks associated with the servers:
- Buy a Reliable Firewall
Likely, the secure third-party provider you choose will already have a firewall available to you as part of their subscription services if you choose to host your multiplayer gaming sessions on their own Minecraft anti-DDoS server.
- Restrict Access to Ports
There is no need to leave any ports open if you only want to host a modest, pleasant multiplayer session. On your self-hosted server as well as on the control panel of any third-party service that you may be accustomed to using to host the game session, you can manually handle this feature.
- Proxy On Your Backend Server
For servers that don’t need to block player IP addresses or don’t have the command line skills to set up a network interface, a reverse proxy is beneficial because it only permits connections to your backend.
- Block VPN Sign-Ups
The ability to encrypt data and remain anonymous has made virtual private networks, or VPNs for short, a crucial tool for user protection. However, hackers may readily abuse these same tools for malevolent purposes. You can decide to forbid any user from connecting over a VPN as a precautionary measure to be even safer.
How to Secure Your Minecraft Server on a VPS?
The following are some top recommendations for protecting your Minecraft server on a VPS:
- Create a Minecraft VPS server configuration
- To replace your password and keep your server secure, make a pair of SSH keys
- Utilize the Secure Shell Protocol (SSH) to connect to your VPS
- Set up your server so that it can run Minecraft
- By setting up a free proxy with Amazon Web Services, you can defend your server from denial-of-service attacks on your home Minecraft server