Guides
Step-by-step help for self-hosting your Minecraft server, organised by what you're trying to do. If something's still unclear after reading the guide, the support page and our Discord are there too.
Getting started
If you've never run a Minecraft server before, start here.
Set up a Java Minecraft server on Windows
10 min read · BeginnerA complete walkthrough from a fresh install to your first connected friend. Covers Vanilla, Paper, Forge, Fabric and NeoForge, with the easy way (MC Server Manager) and the manual command-line way side by side.
Read guide →Run a Bedrock server for console and mobile
5 min read · BeginnerFor when your friends are on Xbox, PlayStation, Switch, mobile or Windows 10/11 Bedrock. Covers the official Bedrock Dedicated Server, port 19132 networking and the Java vs Bedrock split.
Read guide →Connecting players and managing remotely
Once your server is running, players need a way to connect, and you might want to manage it from outside the house. Pick what fits.
Port forwarding and UPnP
8 min read · IntermediateSet up port forwarding the manual way for any router (Sky, BT, Virgin, Netgear, TP-Link, ASUS, Linksys, Xfinity), or skip the router config entirely with UPnP auto-setup. Includes a CGNAT escape hatch.
Read guide →Use Relay Pro for a custom address
3 min read · BeginnerIf your internet uses CGNAT or you just don't want to touch your router, Relay Pro gives your server a custom address that works on any connection. Java and Bedrock both supported.
Learn more →Manage your server from any browser
4 min read · BeginnerSet up the web dashboard so you can watch stats, run commands and start/stop the server from your phone, your laptop at work, anywhere. Cloudflare Tunnel under the hood, no router setup.
Read guide →Troubleshooting
Fix the most common issues that stop a self-hosted server from running.
Why your server keeps crashing (and how to fix it)
6 min read · IntermediateA step-by-step diagnosis for a server that won't stay up. Covers out of memory, mod conflicts, version mismatches, world corruption and how to read crash reports.
Read guide →Fix "Unsupported Class Version" Java errors
3 min read · BeginnerThe most common reason a self-hosted server refuses to start. Find out why it happens, which Java version your Minecraft needs, and how to fix it for good.
Read guide →Still stuck?
If a guide didn't get you over the line, we're happy to help directly. Discord is usually fastest, support email works too.