MINECRAFT SERVER WON'T START 🔴

Hello👋!! Today we're going to solve the question of why your server won't start. Although this can apply to any hosting, in this guide we'll be using HolyHosting, your trusted hosting provider. Let's understand why your server won't start and how to fix it.

Let's go 💪!

1. Check Your Server Console 🖥️

The console is your best friend when your server won't start. It will give you crucial information about the problem. Here's what to look for:

Common Problem⚠️: Java☕️ Incorrect

• Error: Using a version of Java with "j9" at the end.
• Solution: Switch to a Java version without "j9" (for example, Java 17).

2. Accept the EULA 📜

If you haven't accepted the EULA, your server won't start. This is a common and easy-to-fix problem.

Common Problem⚠️: EULA Not Accepted

• Error: A message appears in the console about accepting the EULA 📄.
• Solution: Go to your server files, find the eula.txt file, and change eula=false to eula=true.

3. Correct Java Version ☕

Using the wrong version of Java can prevent your server from starting.

Common Problem⚠️: Incorrect Java Version☕

• Error: Java version incompatibility.
• Solution: For Minecraft 1.16.5 and earlier versions, use Java 8-16. For versions 1.17 and later, use Java 17. For version 1.21, use Java 21.

4. Corrupt Paper Configurations 📂

Sometimes, the Paper configuration can become corrupted, especially during the first installation.

Common Problem⚠️: Corrupt Configuration🕵️‍♂️

• Error: Messages in the console related to configuration (config or configuration node).
• Solution: Delete the config folder and, if necessary, the libraries.

5. Corrupt or Missing server.jar File 🔄

The server.jar file is crucial for starting the server.

Common Problem⚠️: Corrupt or Missing server.jar

• Error: The server can't find the server.jar.
• Solution: Reinstall the server version from the HolyHosting control panel.

6. Corrupt World 🌍

A corrupt world can be the cause of your server not starting.

Common Problem⚠️: Corrupt World

• Error: The server won't start with the current world.
• Solution: Change the world name in the configuration (server.properties -> level-name) to create a new world. If the server starts, the problem is with the previous world.

7. Incorrect World Version 🔄

Starting the server with a world version higher than the current one can cause problems.

Common Problem: Incorrect World Version

• Error: The console indicates the world was created with a higher version.
• Solution: Go back to the previous server version or change the world🌍.

8. Plugin or Mod Problems ⚙️

Plugins or mods can be the cause of your server not starting.

Common Problem⚠️: Missing Dependencies

• Error: The server can't find a required dependency.
• Solution: Check the plugins/mods pages to download all required dependencies.

Common Problem⚠️: Client-Side Mods on the Server

• Error: The server crashes on startup with client-side mods.
• Solution: Remove the client-side mods from the server and make sure only server-side mods remain.

9. Binary Search 🔍

If you can't identify the problem, use binary search to find the culprit plugin or mod.

Common Problem⚠️: Plugin or Mod Incompatibility

• Error: You can't identify the problematic mod or plugin.
• Solution: Move half of your mods/plugins to a separate folder and check if the server starts. Repeat the process until you find the culprit.

10. Incompatible Software 🛠️

Some software can be incompatible with each other.

Common Problem⚠️: Plugins and Forge Together

• Error: The server doesn't work correctly with Plugins and Forge.
• Solution: Switch to compatible software like CatServer or use only Forge.

If you still have problems, we'll be waiting for you on the official HolyHosting Discord, where we'll be happy to help you.

That's all for today, see you next time! 👋🚀

Stuffy @HolyHosting