You can create a Minecraft server for free by downloading the official server software and running it on a compatible computer. The software costs nothing, but your computer, electricity, and internet connection still do the work. Choose the setup for the edition your friends play: Java Edition or Bedrock Edition. A server that works on your home network may need additional firewall and router configuration before people outside your home can join.
What you need before creating a free Minecraft server
- A computer that meets the requirements for your chosen server package and can stay on while people play.
- A reliable internet connection. Your internet provider or network setup may affect whether outside players can connect.
- The official server software for the edition your group uses. Java and Bedrock servers are separate; players generally need a compatible client edition and version.
- Permission to configure the host computer’s firewall and, if necessary, your router.
Minecraft confirms that its official Java and Bedrock server software is free to download from its server download page. Free software does not mean a server is hosted for you: with self-hosting, the world depends on your own computer and connection.
Choose Java Edition or Bedrock Edition
Start with the edition your friends play. The server packages are not interchangeable, and having Bedrock cross-platform support does not make Java and Bedrock clients interchangeable.
| Choice | Server package and host requirements | Default connection port | Compatibility check |
|---|---|---|---|
| Java Edition | Official Java server JAR; requires a compatible Java runtime. The required Java version depends on the server release. | 25565 is the port Minecraft gives as an example; check the current server configuration. | Use a Java Edition client compatible with the server version. |
| Bedrock Edition | Official Bedrock Dedicated Server package for supported Windows or Ubuntu systems. | 19132 (IPv4) and 19133 (IPv6), the defaults listed by Microsoft Learn. | Match the client and server builds; protocol compatibility can differ even between patch versions. |
The port values above are defaults or examples from the cited documentation, not a promise that every router or network uses the same setup. Official references: Minecraft server downloads, Minecraft Bedrock Dedicated Server downloads, and Microsoft Learn’s Bedrock Dedicated Server guide.
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Create a free Java Edition server
- Download the server JAR. Get the Java Edition server file from Minecraft’s official server download page. Minecraft states that this setup is for Java Edition only.
- Make a dedicated server folder. Put the JAR in a folder of its own so the world and configuration files it creates stay together.
- Install and check Java. Install a Java runtime compatible with your chosen server release, then confirm it can be called from a command line. On Windows, you may need to adjust PATH. Follow the current download guidance for the release rather than assuming one Java version works for every server version.
- Start the server using Minecraft’s current instructions. The first run creates server files, including an EULA file. Open and read the EULA; accept it only if you agree to its terms. Minecraft’s Java server setup help also recommends keeping Java up to date. Available memory and performance depend on your computer and server, so do not assume a universal memory setting.
- Test from the host or another device on your home network. Confirm that the server starts and a local player can join before troubleshooting access from the internet.
- Back up the world folder before changing versions or configuration. Keep a separate copy so you can recover the world if a change causes a problem.
Create a free Bedrock Edition server
Minecraft’s Bedrock download page currently lists these vendor-published requirements for Bedrock Dedicated Server: an Intel Core i3-3210 or AMD A8-7600-equivalent CPU, 4 GB RAM, 180 MB to 1 GB of storage, and broadband. Its listed supported systems are Windows 10 version 10.0.15063 or later or Windows Server 2016 or later, and Ubuntu 22.04 LTS or later for Linux. These are the requirements on the official page, not independent performance benchmarks; check the live page in case they change.
- Download the package for your host operating system. Use the official Bedrock Dedicated Server download page.
- Extract the ZIP into an empty folder. Keep the server files together in that folder.
- Start the server. On Windows, Microsoft Learn says to run
bedrock_server. On Ubuntu, its command isLD_LIBRARY_PATH=. ./bedrock_server. - Review server.properties. Use this configuration file to set options such as the world name and game mode.
- Test a local connection. Microsoft Learn’s local client example uses port 19132. Confirm local access before changing router settings.
- Check client and server versions. Microsoft warns that protocol compatibility may differ even between patch versions. Use matching current builds and make sure players are joining from supported Bedrock platforms.
See Microsoft Learn’s getting-started guide for its launch commands and port details.
Let friends outside your home connect
A server running on your computer is not automatically reachable from the public internet. First verify that local play works. Then allow only the relevant server traffic through the host firewall and configure your router if your network requires port forwarding. Minecraft’s Java guidance gives 25565 as an example port; Bedrock’s documented defaults are 19132 and 19133.
- Do not disable the firewall entirely or open unrelated ports.
- Router menus and terminology vary by manufacturer, and internet-provider or network restrictions can prevent or alter port forwarding.
- Minecraft cautions that configuring a home network is not recommended unless you know what you are doing. If you are unsure, stay with local play or choose a managed option rather than exposing services you do not understand.
For Minecraft’s guidance, see the Java server setup help and the server download page.
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- The classic UNO card game builds fun on game night with a Minecraft theme.
- UNO Minecraft features a deck and storage tin decorated with graphics from the popular video game.
- Players match colors and numbers to the card on top of the discard pile as in the classic game.
- The Creeper card unique to this deck forces other players to draw 3 cards.
- Makes a great gift for kid, teen, adult and family game nights with 2 to 10 players ages 7 years and older, especially Minecraft and video game fans.
What “free” means—and when to choose a managed server
Self-hosting avoids a server-software fee, but it uses your own compatible computer, power, and internet service. The computer must be available while people want to play, and remote access may require network configuration. Minecraft describes Realms as a subscription alternative for a more managed personal server. Check Minecraft’s current plans, prices, player limits, and platform compatibility before subscribing; these terms can change.
Independent reader supportYour contribution helps us test, update, and keep practical guides available for everyone.Read the rules before sharing or monetizing a server
Minecraft’s End User License Agreement says you may install the Java Edition server version and host online play. It also restricts distributing Minecraft material without permission. Before distributing game files, charging for access, or using Minecraft content commercially, read the current EULA and Usage Guidelines. Do not assume that permission to host a server also grants permission to redistribute the software or bundle copyrighted assets.
Quick Recap
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- Now Minecraft lovers can play a special version of UNO!
- Same as Basic UNO but features Minecraft characters and includes special Creeper rule card. Draw this card and the other players have to draw three more cards from the pile!
- The goal is to get rid of all the cards in your hand.
- First player or team to 500 wins.
- When you're down to one card, don't forget to yell "UNO"!
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