How to start a Minecraft Paper server on Ubuntu

Paper is a faster version of the Minecraft Java server that also runs Bukkit and Spigot plugins. In this guide you set it up on an Ubuntu VPS.

What you need

• An Ubuntu 22.04 or 24.04 VPS — 2–4 GB RAM for friends, 6–8 GB for 20+ players with plugins.
• SSH access to your server — new server? First follow How to secure your Linux VPS.

Step 1: Install Java 21

Recent Minecraft versions need Java 21:

Step 2: Download Paper

1. Open papermc.io/downloads/paper, pick your Minecraft version and copy the download link.
2. Create a folder and download the file as paper.jar:

Step 3: First start and the EULA

The first start creates the files and stops because you must accept the Minecraft EULA:

Step 4: Open the Minecraft port

Step 5: Keep it running 24/7 with screen

If you close SSH, the server stops — unless it runs inside screen:

Step 6: Join your server

In Minecraft, go to Multiplayer → Add Server and enter your server IP. The default port 25565 doesn't need to be typed.

Step 7: Add plugins

1. Download a plugin .jar for your Minecraft version (for example from Hangar or Modrinth).
2. Put it in ~/minecraft/plugins/.
3. Restart the server — type stop in the console, then start it again.

Tips for a smooth server

• Pre-generate your world with a plugin like Chunky to avoid lag when players explore.
• Lower view-distance in server.properties to 8–10 on busy servers.
• Back up the world folders regularly.