Create a Server

Creating a server in auto-mcs is pretty straightforward. For most users, the instant templates from the Create a New Server screen are the fastest way to get started. They choose sensible defaults so you can get a server running without worrying about every setting.

If you want to configure things yourself, choose Custom, or click the settings icon next to an instant template to edit them while using their defaults. There are a few options worth knowing about before creating your first server:

Server type

The distribution determines what your server can do beyond the stock Minecraft experience. Generally, there are three types to consider:

• Vanilla is the default Minecraft experience without support for external mods or plugins. This is recommended if you just want to play with friends. You can extend the game’s functionality via datapacks, or amscript.
• Paper, Purpur, Spigot, and CraftBukkit provide plugin support. Paper & Purpur also include performance improvements and additional configuration options. Plugins provide server-side only functionality, meaning Vanilla clients can still join servers with plugins installed.
• Fabric, Quilt, Forge, and NeoForge are modding platforms for adding new content and features to the game. Depending on the mods you’re using (for instance, mods that add new assets like biomes or mobs), everyone connecting may also need them installed.

If you aren’t sure what to choose, Vanilla or Paper is a good place to start. You can change your distribution later through the Server Manager. Learn more about server types.

Server version

The version determines which Minecraft features and mechanics are available. It’s recommended to use the latest stable release unless you’re using older mods, a specific modpack, or a world that requires another version. auto-mcs supports almost every version from alpha to current releases.

The clients connecting to your server will generally need to use the same version. Learn more about server versions.

World

You can generate a new world or import one that you’ve already made. When creating a world, you can also specify a seed or change the world type.

Your world can be replaced or regenerated later without having to create a completely new server. Learn more about world configuration.

Networking

For server IP/port settings, internet connectivity, and playit.gg, see the Networking Overview for more details.

Access control

You can configure operators, bans, and the whitelist during creation. It’s recommended to give yourself operator permissions and enable the whitelist if your server is only intended for a small group of friends.

These rules can be changed at any time through the Access Control Manager.

Additional options

There are also settings for gamemode, difficulty, PVP, keeping inventory, spawn protection, command blocks, and other game mechanics. Depending on the distribution, you can also install mods or plugins and enable Bedrock support through Geyser.

For a full explanation of these options, view Advanced Setup.

After creation

Once your server has been created, auto-mcs will open your server from the Server Manager. From there, you can start it, manage the console, install add-ons, and change its configuration whenever you need to.

auto-mcs also creates a back-up after creating your server, so you have a snapshot of the server at the initial state before making further changes.

For a detailed breakdown of every configuration option, check out the Advanced Setup.

Headless setup

On Linux and macOS, you can create servers directly from the headless CLI without opening the GUI. Use the server create command with a server type and Minecraft version, or latest, or use the filename of an instant template. Then, give it a name:

server create paper:latest My Server
server create instant:bedrock My Server

After creation, you can list your servers, launch one, or open the console:

server list
server launch My Server
console My Server