Running a Minecraft server can be incredibly rewarding, but it often comes with a few headaches, especially if you're just getting started. From startup failures to connection issues, these challenges can quickly become frustrating. In this guide, we'll walk you through the most common Minecraft Server issues players face when setting up a Minecraft server and how to fix them.

Server Won't Start

One of the most frustrating problems is when your server refuses to start. Common causes include Java version mismatches, incorrect launch commands, missing files, or Java runtime errors identified by exit codes. Knowing where to check logs and what errors to look for is key.

  1. Check Java & Server Version
    Ensure your Minecraft server version matches your Java version (e.g., Java 17 for 1.18+). Mismatches often cause startup failures.
  2. Java Error Exit Codes
    Java runtime errors often output exit codes that help identify issues like out-of-memory errors or permission problems. Understanding common Java error exit codes such as 1, 137, or 255 can help you apply the right fixes, including adjusting memory allocation or updating Java.
  3. Error Logs are Key
    Crash reports and server logs contain vital information to diagnose startup failures. Knowing how to find and interpret crash reports makes troubleshooting much easier.

Server Lags / Performance Issues

Performance problems like lag can ruin gameplay for everyone. These issues typically stem from resource limits, excessive entity loads, or plugin inefficiencies. Monitoring and tuning your server can greatly improve responsiveness.

  1. Simulation & View Distance
    Keep simulation and view distance on your Minecraft server at or below 10. Higher values cause significant server load.
  2. RAM & CPU Monitoring
    Tools like Spark or ClearLag help monitor resource usage. If lag correlates with resource spikes, it may be time to upgrade your server or troubleshoot performance lag.
  3. Garbage Collection & Plugins
    Enable optimized garbage collection via your hosting panel. Use performance-optimized server builds like Paper or Purpur.
  4. Entity Management
    Limit excessive spawns of mobs, dropped items, and Redstone mechanics.

Can't Connect To The Server

Connection failures are common and can have many causes, from firewall blocks to client-server version mismatches. Identifying the right cause involves checking IP, ports, firewalls, and client software.

  1. Accurate IP & Port
    Most connection errors happen because the port number is missing. Use the format IP:Port (e.g., 123.45.67.89:25565).
  2. Firewall & Antivirus
    Make sure the Java executable (javaw.exe) is allowed through your firewall and antivirus software.
  3. ISP Issues & VPN Workarounds
    Sometimes, your internet provider may block or route Minecraft traffic incorrectly. Switching to a hotspot or VPN can help diagnose or fix this.
  4. Client Version & Authentication Errors
    Common messages include “Authentication servers are down,” which usually requires retrying later or restarting the game. Also, make sure your client and server versions match exactly.

Players Can't Join

Player connection failures have many causes including bans, whitelist issues, and client authentication problems. Understanding these common barriers helps you quickly resolve join issues.

  1. Whitelist & Bans
    Ensure the player isn’t blocked by whitelist restrictions or ban lists. Add them to the whitelist if necessary.
  2. Server Slot Limits
    Increase the maximum player slots in your server.properties file if the server is full.
  3. Mojang Authentication Issues
    Online-mode servers rely on Mojang’s authentication servers. Check the official Minecraft status page if players cannot log in.
  4. Using Cracked or Unauthorized Clients
    Players trying to join your Java server using cracked (non-premium) mod loaders or unauthorized clients will be rejected if your server is in online mode. This is because the server verifies usernames with Mojang’s authentication servers. To fix this, advise players to use official Minecraft clients or consider switching your server to offline mode (not recommended due to security risks).
  5. Domain & DNS Checks
    If using a custom domain, verify DNS records are properly configured and have propagated.

Mod Or Plugin Compatibility Errors

Mods and plugins enhance gameplay but can cause crashes and errors if incompatible. Always verify version compatibility and dependencies, and carefully test new additions before going live.

  1. Version Matching
    Make sure mods and plugins align with your exact Minecraft version and server platform.
  2. Missing Mods Exception
    When the server lacks required mods or dependencies, it can throw a missing mods exception error, causing startup failures or crashes. Confirming all necessary mods are installed and loaded correctly is essential.
  3. Crash Report Analysis
    Reviewing crash reports often reveals missing or conflicting mods responsible for instability.
  4. Test in Staging Environment
    Testing mods or plugins in a separate staging environment before applying them to your live server reduces the risk of unexpected crashes.

World Corruption

World corruption can destroy player progress and world data. Most issues come from improper shutdowns or faulty plugins. Frequent backups and repair tools help you recover quickly.

  1. Proper Shutdowns
    Always use /stop to shut down the server or use your host's game panel to shut it down safely.
  2. Frequent Backups
    Schedule regular backups to reduce recovery time after corruption.
  3. Specific Chunk Errors
    Errors like java.lang.IllegalArgumentException: ChunkNibbleArrays should be 2048 bytes, not 0 are usually caused by corrupted chunk data. Fixing this chunk error involves identifying the affected chunk and removing or replacing the region file.
    Manually remove corrupted region files with MCA Selector to allow Minecraft to regenerate them.
  4. Corruption Troubleshooting
    Dedicate some time to troubleshoot and fix corrupted Minecraft worlds if regions won't load or the server crashes.

Permissions And Admin Controls Not Working

Permission issues can prevent players or admins from accessing commands or features. This is usually due to plugin misconfiguration or syntax errors. Understanding how permissions plugins work is crucial.

1. Check Permissions Plugin Setup
Permissions plugins like LuckPerms must be properly installed and configured. Use correct commands and syntax to assign permissions.

2. Use In-game Tools
Commands like /op <username> grant admin rights instantly. Some plugins also offer web-based or GUI editors for easier permission management.

3. Verify Config Formatting
Permission files are often YML or JSON and are sensitive to formatting. Check for misplaced tabs or spaces and validate the file syntax. These tutorials might prove useful:

4. Reload After Changes
Use commands like /lp sync or restart the server to ensure permission changes take effect.

Server Keeps Crashing Unexpectedly

Unexpected crashes can stem from faulty mods, plugin conflicts, or resource shortages. Careful log analysis and incremental troubleshooting usually reveal the root cause.

  1. Inspect Crash Reports
    Check logs/latest.log or the crash reports folder for detailed error messages. These logs often point to the exact plugin or mod causing the crash.
  2. Isolate and Troubleshoot Faulty Plugins
    Plugin-related crashes are often triggered by version mismatches or faulty installations. Make sure each plugin is compatible with your server version and properly configured. Troubleshooting your server for broken plugins will help pinpoint the plugin causing these errors on your server console and crash reports.
  3. Update Everything
    Keep Java, server software, and all mods/plugins updated to their latest stable versions.
  4. Resource Bottlenecks
    Crashes during heavy gameplay often signal memory leaks or CPU overload. Dedicate some time to general server troubleshooting by monitoring RAM, CPU, and network usage during crashes and consider upgrading hardware or hosting plans if needed.

Easily Navigate Minecraft Server Issues With Pine Hosting

Managing a Minecraft server can be complex, but Pine Hosting simplifies the process by handling many common issues for you. From backups to performance tuning and expert support, Pine Hosting keeps your server running smoothly.

  • One-click installers for mods and plugins with proper version compatibility.
  • Automated backups, restore points, and scheduled maintenance.
  • Advanced performance tuning options including garbage collection and simulation limits.
  • 24/7 expert Minecraft support to quickly resolve server problems.
  • Intuitive dashboards to manage IPs, ports, permissions, and server logs easily.

No need to keep searching what are the common issues when setting up a Minecraft server and how can you fix them. With Pine Hosting, you avoid many common setup issues and get expert help exactly when you need it.