How to Fix Minecraft Server Won't Start Error

Minecraft servers require Java to run. Verify you have the correct Java version installed:

For Minecraft 1.17+, you need Java 17 or higher. For older versions, Java 8 works fine.

If Java is missing: Download from Adoptium.net and install the appropriate version.

Ensure all required server files are present in your server directory:

• server.jar - The main server file
• eula.txt - End User License Agreement
• server.properties - Server configuration file

If server.jar is missing, download it from minecraft.net/download/server

Minecraft requires you to accept the End User License Agreement:

1. Open eula.txt in a text editor
2. Change eula=false to eula=true
3. Save the file

Minecraft servers use port 25565 by default. Make sure it's not already in use:

If the port is in use, either stop the conflicting process or change the port in server.properties:

Ensure your server has enough RAM allocated. Use these startup commands:

If the server still won't start, check the logs for specific error messages:

• Look for latest.log in the logs folder
• Common errors include "Address already in use", "OutOfMemoryError", or "ClassNotFoundException"
• Search for the specific error message online for targeted solutions

Try these additional fixes if the above steps don't work:

• Firewall: Temporarily disable firewall or add Java/Minecraft exceptions
• Antivirus: Add server folder to antivirus exclusions
• File permissions: Ensure Java has permission to read/write server files
• Corrupt world: Try starting with a fresh world by renaming the world folder