The Ultimate Guide: Setting Up Minecraft Multiplayer Servers on Mac

12/30/2021

Minecraft, the beloved sandbox game, has captivated players of all ages with its endless opportunities for creativity and exploration. While the single-player experience offers a rich adventure, many players yearn for the excitement of multiplayer gameplay. Setting up your own Minecraft multiplayer server on a Mac allows you to create a shared world where you and your friends can embark on epic adventures together. In this ultimate guide, we will walk you through the process of setting up a Minecraft multiplayer server on your Mac and ensure a smooth multiplayer experience for everyone involved.

Step 1: Prepare Your Mac

Before diving into the server setup, make sure your Mac meets the minimum requirements for hosting a Minecraft server. Your Mac should have sufficient processing power, memory, and storage capacity to handle the server's operations and accommodate the number of players you anticipate hosting. Ensure that your Mac is running the latest version of macOS for optimal compatibility and performance.

Step 2: Download the Minecraft Server Software

To set up your Minecraft multiplayer server, you need to download the official server software provided by Mojang. Visit the official Minecraft website (minecraft.net) and navigate to the "Downloads" section. Look for the server software labeled "Minecraft Server" and click on the download link. This will save a .jar file to your Mac, which is the server software you'll be using.

Step 3: Configure Server Settings

Once the server software is downloaded, it's time to configure the server settings to suit your preferences. Before launching the server, create a new folder on your Mac where you want to store the server files. Place the downloaded server software .jar file into this folder. Next, open a text editor and create a new file named "server.properties" (without quotes) within the same folder. This file will contain various settings for your server.

Customize the server.properties file to your liking, specifying options such as the maximum number of players, game mode, difficulty level, and more. You can also enable or disable specific features, adjust spawn rates, and define server rules. Save the file when you're done customizing.

Step 4: Launch Your Minecraft Server

With the server configured, you're ready to launch your Minecraft multiplayer server. Open the Terminal application on your Mac (located in the Utilities folder within Applications) and navigate to the folder where you stored the server files. Use the "cd" command followed by the folder's path to navigate to the correct directory.

Once you're in the correct folder, type the following command in the Terminal to launch the server:

Replace "server.jar" with the exact name of the server software .jar file you downloaded.

Press Enter, and the Minecraft server will start initializing. During this process, the necessary files and folders for your server will be generated. Once the initialization is complete, you and your friends can connect to the server using your local IP address.

Step 5: Connect to Your Server

To connect to your Minecraft server, open the Minecraft game on your Mac and click on "Multiplayer" on the main menu. Then, click on the "Add Server" button and enter a name for your server. In the Server Address field, input your local IP address (you can find it in the System Preferences under Network) followed by the server's port number (by default, it's 25565).

Click "Done" to save the server information. Your server will appear on the multiplayer server list. Select it and click "Join Server" to connect.

Step 6: Share Your Server with Friends

To allow your friends to join your Minecraft server, you need to share your public IP address with them. You can find your public IP address by visiting websites such as "What Is My IP." Share this address along with the server's port number (by default, 25565) so your friends can connect to your server over the internet.

If you're behind a router, you may need to set up port forwarding to ensure incoming connections reach your server. Consult your router's manual or website for instructions on how to set up port forwarding for Minecraft.

Step 7: Customize and Enjoy Your Multiplayer World

With your Minecraft multiplayer server up and running, it's time to customize your world and enjoy the multiplayer experience. Explore together, collaborate on building projects, embark on epic adventures, or engage in friendly competitions. Utilize mods, plugins, or resource packs to enhance your gameplay and add exciting features.

Remember to regularly update your Minecraft server software to the latest version and keep an eye on server performance. Properly manage and moderate your server to create a welcoming and enjoyable experience for all players involved.

Setting up a Minecraft multiplayer server on your Mac allows you to create a shared world where you and your friends can embark on exciting adventures together. By following the steps outlined in this ultimate guide, you'll be able to configure and launch your server, connect with friends, and enjoy the limitless possibilities of Minecraft multiplayer gameplay. So gather your friends, unleash your creativity, and let your Minecraft multiplayer journey begin!