How to Make a Minecraft Server for Kids: Step-by-Step Guide

Curious about playing Minecraft with your friends in your own virtual world? Discover how to make a Minecraft server! This guide will explain every step in a fun, easy way, whether you’re a parent helping your child or a kid exploring coding. Building a Minecraft server is a great start to learning about coding, networks, and digital safety together!

What Is a Minecraft Server?

A Minecraft server is a special computer or device that lets you and your friends play Minecraft together in your own custom world. Servers can be free or paid, private or public, and can be set up at home or online. Building a Minecraft server introduces kids to creative problem-solving, teamwork, and computer basics.

What You Need Before You Start

Before learning how to make a Minecraft server, you’ll need a few things ready. Make sure your computer meets the game’s requirements and that you have the right Minecraft edition. Check the table below to understand your options:

Minecraft Server Edition Comparison

**Tip:** Choose Minecraft Java Edition if you want more customisation and mods. Bedrock is best for playing across devices like mobile or Nintendo Switch. Always check your edition before starting.

Step-by-Step Guide: How To Make A Minecraft Server

Follow these steps to set up your own Minecraft server for free! This guide focuses on the Java Edition, but we also share tips for Bedrock, mobile, and mods.

1. Install Minecraft Java Edition: You’ll need a licensed version of Minecraft Java. Download and install it on your computer. (For Bedrock edition, skip to the mobile/console details below.)

2. Update Your Java Software: Make sure you’re running the latest version of Java. Visit your computer’s settings or search for "Java Update" to keep things secure.

3. Download the Minecraft Server File: Visit the official Minecraft website to get the server .jar file for your Minecraft version. Place this file in a new, easy-to-find folder—like "Minecraft Server" on your desktop.

4. Start and Accept the Server Agreement: Open the server .jar file. This will generate some files, including an EULA (End User License Agreement). Open eula.txt and change eula=false to eula=true. Save and close.

5. Create a Launch Script (Windows users): In your server folder, create a new text file, paste in java -Xmx1024M -Xms1024M -jar server.jar nogui, and save it as start.bat. Double-click this script to start your server smoothly.

6. Customise Server Properties: Open server.properties to change game mode (creative/survival), player limits, and set your Minecraft server address. Tweak settings to match your family’s preferences for creative or competitive play.

7. Allow Connections (Port Forwarding): To play with friends outside your house, you’ll need to open port 25565 on your internet router. Ask an adult for help with this step as it involves online safety and privacy protection.

8. Connect to Your Server: Launch Minecraft, click Multiplayer, then Add Server. Enter your Minecraft server address (your IP address plus ":25565" if needed). The name can be anything you like!

Congratulations! You now know how to make a Minecraft server for free. Remember, always share your server address only with people you trust. Online safety comes first!

How to Make a Minecraft Server for Bedrock, Mobile & Nintendo Switch

To make a Minecraft server on Bedrock Edition (used for phones, tablets, Windows 10, and consoles like Nintendo Switch), you’ll use a different setup. Minecraft Bedrock servers are cross-platform, but have fewer mod options. For mobile, you can create a local world and enable "Multiplayer" for friends on the same Wi-Fi. For consoles, join Realms or local games via your friends list.

• Follow the in-game instructions for Bedrock Edition servers.

• For Switch, use Local Network Play or Realms.

• Free Bedrock servers can be set up on Windows 10, but may need extra tools.

Adding Mods: How To Make a Minecraft Server With Mods

Want to make your Minecraft world even more exciting? Adding mods lets you build with new tools, creatures, and adventures! To create a Minecraft server with mods, use the Java Edition and a platform like CurseForge. All players must install the same mods and use the same game version. This is a fun step in learning how computers use software to change how programs work!

• Install Minecraft Forge or Fabric mod loader.

• Download mods from a trusted source like CurseForge.

• Place mods into the server’s "mods" folder and in each player’s Minecraft mods folder.

• Restart your server, and enjoy the new features together!

Top Tips for Digital Safety and Responsible Play

Building and running a Minecraft server is a fun way to start coding, but online safety is vital. Here’s how to have fun while staying safe and respectful:

• Only share your Minecraft server address with friends and family.

• Always ask an adult before changing network settings or downloading files.

• Use strong passwords for server admin access.

• Turn off or restrict "spawn-monsters" and "PvP" for younger players.

• Take regular breaks and balance playtime with other activities.

Creative Coding Ideas with Your Minecraft Server

Running your own Minecraft server is the perfect way for kids to try coding and STEM! Here are some awesome project ideas:

• Use command blocks to build secret doors or code a Minecraft mini-game.

• Try making your own Minecraft mod with simple Java code.

• Hold an online Minecraft building challenge for friends and family.

• Explore the basics of networks and software in everyday life.

Why Learn How To Make a Minecraft Server?

When children make their own servers, they build problem-solving skills, boost creativity, and learn digital safety. It’s a practical way to explore concepts like computer hardware, software, and networks. Vedantu’s Coding for Kids resources make these skills easy and fun to learn, setting a strong foundation for future tech adventures!

Setting up a Minecraft server is a step-by-step coding adventure for kids and families. From installing software and adjusting networks to adding mods and playing safely, the process sparks curiosity and builds tech confidence. With creativity, teamwork, and Vedantu’s support, your private Minecraft world becomes a fun, safe, and educational coding journey!