Minecraft Server Won't Start – Install & Fix Connection

Quick answer: Minecraft server won't start or players can't connect? In most cases it's missing Java 17+, EULA not accepted, closed port 25565 or wrong IP. This guide fixes exactly those issues step by step.

If you're here, you probably have one of these problems

Server won't start – Java error, EULA not accepted or wrong JAR
"Connection timed out" – port 25565 closed or firewall blocking
Players can't find the server – wrong IP, no SRV record or DNS not propagated
Server crashes immediately – not enough RAM or wrong Java version

Requirements

Java 17+ – see Set up Linux VPS
RAM – hardware guide
Port 25565 open – Firewall & ports

Step 1: Install Java

sudo apt update
sudo apt install openjdk-17-jre-headless
java -version

Step 2: Download server JAR

mkdir minecraft-server && cd minecraft-server
wget https://piston-data.mojang.com/v1/objects/4506981865e518256b8607295ce6366ecb41f3f3/server.jar

Tip: Use Paper instead of Vanilla for less lag – performance guide.

Step 3: Accept EULA

java -Xmx2G -Xms1G -jar server.jar nogui

Edit eula.txt → eula=true

Step 4: Start server

java -Xmx2G -Xms1G -jar server.jar nogui

Step 5: Connect

Use server IP or domain. For domain without port: Minecraft SRV record.

Troubleshooting

Symptom	Cause	Fix
Server won't start	EULA=false	Set eula=true
Connection timed out	Port closed	Open port 25565
Server not found	DNS/SRV	SRV record
OutOfMemoryError	Low RAM	Hardware guide

Related guides

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Frequently asked questions (FAQ)

Why won't my Minecraft server start?

Most common: EULA not accepted, Java too old (need 17+), wrong JAR or insufficient RAM. Check logs/latest.log.

Connection timed out – what to do?

Open port 25565 (TCP+UDP) in firewall and router. With domain: check SRV record and DNS propagation.

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