Beginner's Guide: How to Download Minecraft Servers on Mac

October 24, 2022

Minecraft is a game that offers endless possibilities for creativity and exploration. While the single-player experience is enjoyable, playing on multiplayer servers takes the game to a whole new level of excitement and collaboration. If you're a Mac user and new to downloading Minecraft servers, don't worry! This beginner's guide will walk you through the process step-by-step, so you can start exploring the vast multiplayer world of Minecraft in no time.

Step 1: Installing Java

Before downloading Minecraft servers on your Mac, it's important to ensure that you have Java installed. Minecraft servers require Java to run. Follow these steps to check if Java is installed on your Mac:

1. Open "Finder" and navigate to the "Applications" folder.
2. Locate the "Utilities" folder and open it.
3. Look for the "Terminal" application and launch it.

Once the Terminal window is open, type the following command and press Enter:

If Java is installed, you will see information about the installed version. If not, you will receive an error message or a prompt to download Java.

If you don't have Java installed, visit the official Java website (https://java.com) and download the latest version of Java for Mac. Follow the installation instructions provided by the Java installer.

Step 2: Choosing a Minecraft Server

There are various Minecraft servers available, each offering different gameplay styles, features, and communities. Here are a few popular server types to consider:

• Vanilla Servers: These servers offer the classic Minecraft experience without any modifications or plugins.
• Bukkit/Spigot Servers: Bukkit and Spigot are popular server platforms that allow for plugin support, which adds additional features and customization options to the game.
• Modded Servers: Modded servers include custom mods that introduce new gameplay mechanics, items, and worlds to Minecraft.

Research different server options and find one that suits your preferences. Look for server recommendations, read reviews, and explore server listings on popular Minecraft server listing websites.

Step 3: Downloading the Server Files

Once you have chosen a Minecraft server to join, you need to download the server files. Follow these steps:

1. Visit the server's official website or forum post to find the download link for the server files.
2. Click on the download link, and the server files will begin downloading to your Mac.

The server files usually come in the form of a .jar or .zip file.

Step 4: Creating a Server Folder

To keep the server files organized, it's best to create a dedicated folder on your Mac to house the server files. Follow these steps to create a new folder:

1. Open "Finder" and navigate to a location where you want to create the server folder (e.g., your Documents folder).
2. Right-click in the folder and select "New Folder" from the context menu.
3. Give the folder a name, such as "Minecraft Server" or any other name of your choice.

Step 5: Moving the Server Files

Once the server files are downloaded, locate the downloaded file, usually in your "Downloads" folder. Extract the files if they are in a .zip format.

Move the extracted server files to the dedicated server folder you created in Step 4. Simply drag and drop the files into the folder.

Step 6: Launching the Server

To start the Minecraft server, follow these steps:

1. Open "Finder" and navigate to the server folder you created in Step 4.
2. Locate the server file, usually named "server.jar" or something similar.
3. Double-click the server file to launch it.

A Terminal window will open, indicating that the server is starting up. Wait for the server to finish initializing, which may take a few moments.

Step 7: Configuring the Server

Once the server is launched, it's time to configure some settings. Open the server properties file, usually named "server.properties," using a text editor such as TextEdit or Sublime Text. Within this file, you can modify various settings such as the server name, difficulty level, maximum players, and more.

Make any desired changes, save the file, and close the text editor.

Step 8: Joining the Server

To join your newly set up Minecraft server, follow these steps:

1. Launch Minecraft on your Mac.
2. From the main menu, click on "Multiplayer."
3. Click on "Add Server" and enter the server's IP address or domain name.
4. Give the server a name, such as "My Server" or any name you prefer.
5. Click "Done" and select the server from the server list to join.

Note that you will need the correct IP address or domain name provided by the server owner to connect to their specific server.

Downloading Minecraft servers on your Mac is a straightforward process that allows you to enjoy the expansive world of multiplayer Minecraft. By following this beginner's guide, you can install Java, choose a Minecraft server, download the server files, create a server folder, launch the server, configure the settings, and join the server to start your multiplayer adventure. Whether you're exploring vast survival worlds, collaborating on grand builds, or engaging in exciting minigames, Minecraft servers offer endless possibilities for social interaction and gameplay enjoyment. So, dive in, connect with others, and experience the vibrant multiplayer community of Minecraft on your Mac.