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How to Run a Minecraft Server Locally (Java & Bedrock)

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Running a local Minecraft server allows you to play with friends on the same network, test mods, or learn basic server administration without paying for hosting.

Minecraft

This guide covers both:

  • Minecraft Java Edition
  • Minecraft Bedrock Edition

No advanced technical knowledge is required.

Prerequisite: Install Minecraft Using the Official Launcher

A Minecraft server will not work unless the Minecraft game is installed and updated on your system.

Step 1: Download the Minecraft Launcher

  • Download the official Minecraft Launcher for your operating system
  • Install it like a normal application

Step 2: Sign In

  • Open the launcher
  • Log in using your Microsoft account
  • Make sure you have purchased Minecraft (Java, Bedrock, or both)

Step 3: Install the Game

In the launcher, select:

  • Minecraft Java Edition for Java servers
  • Minecraft for Windows (Bedrock Edition) for Bedrock servers

game
Then:

  • Click Install
  • Launch the game once to ensure everything works correctly

This step also ensures:

  • Game files are downloaded
  • Correct versions are available
  • Multiplayer profiles are properly created

Only after completing this should you proceed with setting up a local server.

System Requirements (Minimum)

Component Requirement
OS Windows / macOS / Linux
RAM 4 GB (8 GB recommended)
Java (Java Edition only) Java 17 or later
Storage 2–5 GB free
Network Same Wi-Fi for LAN players

Part 1: Running a Minecraft Java Edition Server

Step 1: Install Java

Minecraft Java servers require Java to run.

Check if Java is installed:

java -version
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If Java is not installed, install Java 17 or newer.

Step 2: Download the Server File

  1. Create a folder, for example: minecraft-java-server
  2. Download the official server.jar
  3. Place the file inside the folder

server

Step 3: Run the Server for the First Time

From inside the folder:

java -jar minecraft_server.jar nogui
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The server will stop automatically. This is expected.

Step 4: Accept the EULA

  1. Open eula.txt

  2. Change:

    eula=false

    Eula.txt
    to:

    eula=true

  3. Save the file

Step 5: Start the Server

Run the server again:

java -jar minecraft_server.jar nogui
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Once you see Done, the server is running.

Step 6: Join the Server Locally

Open Minecraft → Multiplayer → Add Server

Server address:

localhost
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Step 7: Friends Join on LAN

Find your local IP address:

Windows:

ipconfig
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macOS / Linux:

ifconfig
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Friends connect using:

your-local-ip:25565
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Part 2: Running a Minecraft Bedrock Edition Server

Bedrock servers are lightweight and support mobile, console, and Windows players.

Step 1: Download Bedrock Dedicated Server

  1. Create a folder, for example: minecraft-bedrock-server
  2. Download the Bedrock server for your OS
  3. Extract all files into the folder

Step 2: Start the Server

  • Windows: Double-click bedrock_server.exe
  • macOS / Linux: 
./bedrock_server
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The server will start and load the world automatically.

Step 3: Join the Bedrock Server

Open Minecraft → Play → Servers → Add Server

Field Value
Server Name Local Bedrock Server
Server Address Your local IP
Port 19132

Step 4: LAN Multiplayer

All players must be connected to the same Wi-Fi network.

No port forwarding or online login is required for LAN play.

Basic Server Configuration

Both Java and Bedrock servers use a configuration file:

server.properties

Example settings:

gamemode=survival
difficulty=normal
max-players=10
online-mode=true
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Restart the server after making changes.

Common Issues and Fixes

Server not visible

  • Check firewall permissions
  • Confirm all players are on the same network

Lag or crashes

  • Close heavy applications
  • Allocate more RAM for Java servers

Connection refused

  • Verify IP address and port
  • Ensure the server is running

What You Can Do Next

  • Install mods or plugins (Java Edition)
  • Add command blocks
  • Create custom worlds
  • Learn server scripting and automation

Conclusion

Running a local Minecraft server teaches practical skills such as:

  • Basic networking
  • Server management
  • Game backend concepts

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