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Guide

How to make a Lifesteal SMP server

Learn how to set up a Lifesteal SMP server. Follow our guide to installing the required plugins and configuring your server for the best player experience.

AwakeNode Team · Reviewed by Harry · Updated 15 Oct 2026

Prerequisites

To host a Lifesteal SMP, you need a server running a plugin-compatible software such as Paper or Purpur. We recommend using Paper for its performance optimisations and wide plugin compatibility.

Installing the Lifesteal Plugin

On AwakeNode

  1. Download a reputable Lifesteal plugin (such as 'LifestealSMP') for your server software and Minecraft version.
  2. Upload it to the plugins folder in your server's Files tab.
  3. Restart your server so the plugin loads.

On other hosts / manually

  1. Download your chosen Lifesteal plugin JAR file from a trusted source like SpigotMC or Modrinth.
  2. Access your server via SFTP or the File Manager.
  3. Upload the JAR file to the /plugins directory.
  4. Restart your server to load the plugin.

Configuring your SMP

Once the plugin is installed, you must configure the mechanics to suit your server's balance. Common settings include:

  • Hearts on Kill: How many hearts a player steals upon killing another player.
  • Max/Min Hearts: Setting limits to prevent players from becoming too overpowered or losing all progress too quickly.
  • Revival Items: Configuring craftable items used to revive banned players.

Edit these via the config.yml file found in the /plugins/LifestealSMP folder. On AwakeNode, you can edit this directly in your browser using the File Manager.

Performance and Stability

Lifesteal servers can be resource-intensive due to frequent combat and world events. If you notice lag, ensure your server is running on a high-performance plan.

  • RAM: If your server is crashing due to 'Out of Memory' errors, you may need to upgrade your plan. On AwakeNode, your Xmx values update automatically upon upgrading, with no manual configuration required.
  • Startup Flags: To add your own JVM flags, set a custom startup command in your server's Startup tab.

Questions

On this page

  • Prerequisites
  • Installing the Lifesteal Plugin
  • Configuring your SMP
  • Performance and Stability

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What server type should I use for a Lifesteal SMP?+

We recommend using Paper or Purpur as they provide the best performance and support the widest range of Lifesteal plugins.

Can I change my server's RAM allocation myself?+

You can set your own startup command, JVM flags included, in the Startup tab; the memory setting follows your plan. If you need more RAM, please upgrade your plan, and the system will update the settings automatically.

How do I update my Lifesteal plugin?+

Replace the plugin JAR file in your plugins folder via SFTP.

What should I do if the server is lagging during combat?+

Check your player count and plugin load. To add your own JVM flags, set a custom startup command in your server's Startup tab.

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