| Feature | AwakeNode | Shockbyte |
|---|---|---|
| Server locations | UK and EU | North America, Europe and more |
| Java and Bedrock | ✓ | ✓ |
| Modpack installs | CurseForge, Modrinth, FTB | ✓ |
| Change software and version | ✓ | ✓ |
| Scheduled backups | Included | Included |
| Web file manager and SFTP | ✓ | ✓ |
| Free subdomain | ✓ | ✓ |
| DDoS protection | ✓ | ✓ |
Last checked October 2026. Plans and features change, so check both sites before you decide.
Shockbyte is one of the largest Minecraft hosts, known for low entry prices, with servers in many countries. AwakeNode is a UK Minecraft host run by Falcon Hosting Ltd. Here's how the two compare.
Where your server runs
AwakeNode's Minecraft servers run in the UK or EU, close to players in Britain and Europe. If you need a specific country, ask us before ordering. Shockbyte has servers in North America, Europe and beyond, which suits a community spread around the world.
Control panel and modpacks
AwakeNode has its own panel, built for Minecraft: a live console, a file manager, backups, schedules, network settings and a Startup tab. From Startup you can switch between Vanilla, Paper, Purpur, Folia, Spigot, Fabric, Forge and NeoForge, change the Minecraft version, install a CurseForge, Modrinth or FTB modpack, or set your own startup command. Individual mods and plugins are uploaded in the file manager or over SFTP. Every modpack page has a plan suggested for it.
Shockbyte has its own control panel with one-click installers for server versions, modpacks and plugins.
Backups
AwakeNode includes backups with every Minecraft plan, and you can schedule them from the Schedules tab. Shockbyte backs up your primary backup slot automatically.
When something goes wrong
If an AwakeNode server crashes, the panel shows what happened and the evidence from the logs. You can also open a ticket from the server's Support tab, and a person will pick it up.
Trying it and paying
AwakeNode offers a 48-hour free trial where it's available, and you can pay by card, PayPal or bank transfer. See how to order a server.
Which should you choose?
Both are solid choices for a Minecraft server. AwakeNode suits players in the UK and Europe who want modpacks installed for them, a free trial and the option to pay by bank transfer. Shockbyte suits you better if you need a server outside the UK and EU, or the lowest possible price for a small server.
Verdict
Both run Java and Bedrock servers with modpack installs, backups and full file access. Choose AwakeNode for UK and EU servers, a 48-hour free trial and paying by bank transfer. Choose Shockbyte if you need a server outside the UK and EU, or the lowest possible price for a small server.
Questions
Where are AwakeNode's servers compared with Shockbyte's?
AwakeNode's Minecraft servers run in the UK or EU. Shockbyte has servers in North America, Europe and other regions.
Can I install modpacks on AwakeNode?
Yes. Choose a CurseForge, Modrinth or FTB modpack in your server's Startup tab, or order from a modpack's page and it's installed for you.
Does AwakeNode include backups?
Yes. Backups are included with every Minecraft plan, and you can schedule them from the Schedules tab.
Can I try AwakeNode first?
Yes. A 48-hour free trial is available on eligible plans: your server is set up straight away and pauses at the end unless you choose to keep it.