Playing on a server instead of opening a singleplayer world to LAN means the world is always on, nobody has to be the host, and everyone can play when they like.
1. Choose a size
For a vanilla or Paper server with friends:
| Players | Memory |
|---|---|
| 2 to 5 | 2 to 4 GB |
| 5 to 15 | 4 to 6 GB |
| Modpack | 6 to 10 GB, depending on the pack |
More detail in how much RAM your server needs.
2. Choose the software
- Paper for vanilla play. It runs faster than the official server and lets you add plugins later.
- Fabric or NeoForge if you want mods. Pick a modpack when you order and it's installed for you.
3. Keep it private
Turn on the whitelist and add your friends, so only they can join. See how to whitelist your server.
4. Give it an easy address
On the Network tab you can pick a free address on one of our domains, or use a domain you own. Share that with friends instead of an IP and port.
5. Split the cost
With Pay-to-Play, the server's monthly cost is split between everyone who plays. Each person pays their own share by card, and the server keeps running as long as the shares are paid. Turn it on from your server's page and send your friends the link.
Playing with friends on Bedrock
Add Geyser so friends on consoles, phones and Windows Bedrock can join the same Java server.
Questions
Do my friends need to own Minecraft?
Yes. Each player needs their own Java Edition account, or Bedrock if you add Geyser.
What if someone stops paying their share?
The server keeps running while the round is paid. If shares are left unpaid by the renewal date, the server is paused until they are, and anyone in the group can cover a missing share.
Can I move our singleplayer world onto the server?
Yes. See how to upload your own world.