Building Blocks of Fun: Setting Up Classic Minecraft Servers on Windows 10

May 30, 2022

Minecraft, the beloved sandbox game, offers endless possibilities for players to explore, create, and interact in virtual worlds. While the game provides a fantastic single-player experience, many players yearn to share their adventures with friends on their very own Minecraft server. Setting up a classic Minecraft server on Windows 10 is an exciting endeavor that allows you to customize your gameplay, collaborate with others, and build a thriving community. In this article, we'll guide you through the steps of setting up a classic Minecraft server on Windows 10, so you can embark on an unforgettable multiplayer journey.

Prerequisites for Setting Up a Minecraft Server on Windows 10

Before diving into the server setup process, ensure you have the following prerequisites:

1. Minecraft Java Edition: You need a valid copy of Minecraft Java Edition purchased from the official Minecraft website (https://www.minecraft.net/). The server setup process does not work with Minecraft Bedrock Edition.

2. Java Runtime Environment (JRE): Install the latest version of Java Runtime Environment on your Windows 10 computer. You can download it from the official Java website (https://www.java.com/).

3. Sufficient System Resources: Make sure your computer has enough processing power, RAM, and storage to host a Minecraft server. The exact requirements depend on the number of players and the server's modpack or plugins. However, it is recommended to have at least 4GB of RAM available for a smooth experience.

Setting Up a Classic Minecraft Server on Windows 10

Follow these steps to set up a classic Minecraft server on Windows 10:

1. Create a New Folder: Create a new folder on your computer where you want to store the server files. This folder will house all the necessary server components.

2. Download the Server Software: Visit the official Minecraft website and navigate to the "Download" section. Select "Minecraft Server" to download the server software (Minecraft_server.VERSION.jar), replacing "VERSION" with the latest available version.

3. Move the Server Software: Move the downloaded server software (Minecraft_server.VERSION.jar) into the folder you created earlier.

4. Open Command Prompt: Press the Windows key and type "cmd" to open the Command Prompt.

5. Navigate to the Server Folder: In the Command Prompt, use the "cd" command to navigate to the server folder you created. For example, if your folder is located on the desktop, enter the following command: cd C:\Users\YourUsername\Desktop\ServerFolder.

6. Start the Server: Once you're inside the server folder in Command Prompt, enter the following command to start the Minecraft server:java -Xmx1024M -Xms1024M -jar Minecraft_server.VERSION.jar noguiReplace "VERSION" with the actual version number of the server software you downloaded.

7. Agree to the EULA: When you start the server for the first time, it generates some necessary files, including the EULA (End User License Agreement). Open the EULA file located in the server folder, read the agreement, and change eula=false to eula=true to accept the EULA.

8. Configure Server Settings: Open the server.properties file located in the server folder using a text editor. Customize the server settings to your preferences, such as game mode, difficulty, world name, and maximum players.

9. Port Forwarding (Optional): If you want others to connect to your server over the internet, you'll need to set up port forwarding on your router. Consult your router's documentation or visit portforward.com for detailed instructions on port forwarding.

10. Share Server IP: Share your server IP address (your public IP or local IP if playing on the same network) with your friends so they can join your Minecraft server.

Setting up a classic Minecraft server on Windows 10 opens up a world of possibilities for multiplayer fun and collaboration. By following these steps, you can create a server environment where you and your friends can build, explore, and embark on memorable adventures together. Remember to regularly update your server software and keep backups of your world files to ensure a smooth and enjoyable Minecraft server experience. So, gather your friends, set up your server, and immerse yourself in the boundless creativity of multiplayer Minecraft. The building blocks of fun await!