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Set Up a Minecraft Java Edition Server on Windows 11

Create a private Minecraft Java Edition server and configure local multiplayer access.

by@guidox updated:10/29/26 time:30 min level:Intermediate works on:Windows 11 25H2 x64, Minecraft Java Edition server, Release-compatible Java runtime tools:Java runtime, Minecraft Java server
⚠ Safety notice

Keep authentication enabled and avoid exposing a game server to untrusted networks without appropriate security controls. Back up worlds before changing server releases.

TL;DR

Install the correct **Java runtime**, configure a Minecraft server, and test a private multiplayer connection.

Before you start

Requirements

  • Windows 11 25H2 x64
  • Sufficient RAM and CPU resources
  • Java runtime matching the selected server release
  • Official server software from https://www.minecraft.net/en-us/download/server
  • Minecraft Java Edition client
Step by step

Instructions

01

Download server software

Open Minecraft's official Java server download page and download the server package. Check the required Java version for that specific release.

02

Install Java

Install a compatible Java runtime from an official distribution. Verify that Windows Terminal uses the intended runtime.

java -version
03

Create a server folder

Create a dedicated folder and move the downloaded server executable into it.

C:\MinecraftServer
04

Run initial setup

Start the server with a suitable initial memory allocation. The first run creates configuration files and may stop pending EULA acceptance.

java -Xms1G -Xmx2G -jar server.jar nogui
05

Review server settings

Read the Minecraft server EULA and accept it only if you agree. Configure the server for private, authenticated use and enable an allowlist for intended players.

eula=true
online-mode=true
white-list=true
tipRename the downloaded server file to match the example command or update the command to its actual filename.
06

Start and test locally

Restart the server and connect from a compatible Minecraft client on your local network. Confirm the world loads and authentication works.

Troubleshooting

Common issues

The server reports an unsupported Java class version.

Install the Java major version required by the selected Minecraft server release.

The client cannot connect.

Check server status, game version compatibility, local firewall settings, and the connection address.

FAQ

Frequently asked

Does a private server need port forwarding?

Not for normal connections between devices on the same local network.

Can the server use an existing world?

Yes, after backing up and importing a compatible world.

How to undo this

Stop the server using its console, back up wanted world data, and delete the dedicated server folder. Remove any firewall exceptions added for the server.

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