Want to play Minecraft with friends without paying for a monthly server subscription? Setting up a private multiplayer world is easier than you might think. Free Minecraft server hosting platforms such as Aternos let players create and manage their own worlds without purchasing a separate hosting plan.
In this guide, you’ll learn how to make a free Minecraft server, configure it for multiplayer gameplay and explore what Server.pro offers. Whether you play Minecraft Java Edition or Bedrock Edition, these steps will help you get started.
What Do You Need to Create a Minecraft Server?
Before starting your Aternos Minecraft server setup, make sure you have:
- A Minecraft Java or Bedrock Edition account.
- A stable internet connection.
- An account with your chosen hosting provider.
- The Minecraft version your friends use.
- Your friends’ Minecraft usernames or gamertags.
Choose Java or Bedrock according to the edition your group plays. They do not automatically connect to the same server without additional cross-play configuration.
How to Make a Free Minecraft Server Using Aternos
Aternos is a popular choice for players looking for a free Minecraft server host. Its official setup guide provides a straightforward account and server creation process.
Follow these steps:
1. Visit the Aternos website
Open Aternos and click Play. Create an account using a username and password, or choose Google sign-in if available.
2. Create your server
After logging in, select Create a server. Choose either Minecraft Java Edition or Bedrock Edition, depending on your requirements.
3. Add server details
Enter a server name and an optional Message of the Day (MOTD). This message appears in the multiplayer server list.
4. Choose server software
For standard survival gameplay, Vanilla is a simple option. If you want plugins or modded gameplay, select compatible software such as Paper, Fabric or Forge, depending on your needs.
5. Start the server
Open your server dashboard and click Start. Accept the Minecraft End User License Agreement when prompted, then wait for the server to become available.
6. Invite your friends
Copy the server address displayed in your Aternos dashboard. Open Minecraft, navigate to Multiplayer or the server list, add the address and join once the server is online.
How to Set Up a Minecraft Server Using Server.pro
Server.pro is another hosting platform worth considering. However, its current pricing page describes the free option as a time-limited demo, with hourly manual renewal and limited storage. It is not equivalent to Aternos’ free hosting model.
To try it:
- Visit Server.pro and create an account.
- Open the Minecraft server creation page.
- Select Minecraft Java Edition and check the available trial option.
- Choose the available server configuration.
- Follow the dashboard instructions to create and launch your server.
- Copy the connection details and join through Minecraft.
Check the current trial conditions before starting, as free access is limited.
Aternos vs Server.pro: Which Should You Choose?
| Feature | Aternos | Server.pro |
| Free access | Free hosting | Time-limited demo |
| Best for | Casual multiplayer | Testing hosting features |
| Setup | Beginner-friendly | Dashboard-based |
| Long-term free use | Yes | Not included in the demo |
For players who want a free Minecraft server for regular sessions with friends, Aternos is the more suitable starting point. Server.pro is worth exploring if you want to test its hosting environment before considering a paid plan.
Tips for Managing Your Free Minecraft Server
- Protect your world: Create backups before changing server software or installing modifications.
- Use a whitelist: Restrict access to players you trust.
- Check compatibility: Make sure everyone uses a compatible Minecraft version.
- Install trusted plugins: Use compatible plugins and mods from reliable sources.
- Understand hosting limits: Free hosting may involve queues, resource restrictions or limited availability.
Aternos also provides official help articles covering backups, server management and Bedrock cross-play.
Conclusion
Creating a multiplayer world does not always require paid hosting. Aternos offers a beginner-friendly way to create a free Minecraft server, while Server.pro provides a limited demo for testing its services.
If your goal is to play survival, build together or explore custom worlds with friends, start with Aternos and configure the server according to your Minecraft edition. With the right settings and basic security measures, you can enjoy a shared Minecraft experience without a monthly hosting bill.
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