How to Make a Minecraft Server (Free)

Guide Java Bedrock

Quick answer: Java, free: download the official server .jar from minecraft.net, run it once, set eula=true in eula.txt, run it again - your server is live. Friends on your network join via your local IP; friends over the internet need port 25565 forwarded, or use a free host like Aternos instead.

What you need

A PC that can stay on while you play
Java installed (same Java your game uses)
The official server .jar from minecraft.net
Router access for port forwarding (only for internet play)

Step by step

Create an empty folder for the server and download server.jar into it from minecraft.net/download/server - the official, free download.
Run it: java -Xmx2G -Xms2G -jar server.jar nogui. It stops right away and generates eula.txt and the server files.
Open eula.txt and change eula=false to eula=true (you accept the Minecraft EULA). Save the file.
Run the command again. The world generates and the console prints 'Done' - the server is running. Type stop to shut it down cleanly.
Join from the same PC with the address localhost, or from other devices on your home network with your PC's local IP.
Friends over the internet: forward TCP port 25565 on your router to your PC and share your public IP. server.properties holds the settings (motd, difficulty, max players).
No router access? Use a free host like Aternos (ad-supported) or a tunnel like playit.gg. Realms is Mojang's paid option with the simplest setup of all.

Java vs Bedrock

Java and Bedrock servers are separate: a Java server does not accept Bedrock players without unofficial proxies. Consoles and mobile can only join Bedrock servers or Realms.

Versions: The server .jar matches each game release - take the latest, unless you play modded, then match your mods' version. Bedrock has its own official dedicated server for Windows and Linux.

Frequently asked questions

Is running a server free?

Yes - the official server .jar is free, and hosts like Aternos are free (ad-supported). Realms is Mojang's paid subscription. Never pay for 'server installer' downloads.

How much RAM does a server need?

1-2 GB is fine for a few friends on vanilla. Raise it with -Xmx4G if you add mods or many players.

Can I add mods to my server?

Yes - install Fabric or NeoForge on the server and every player needs the same mods on their client.