Getting Started with Minecraft Hosting

Minecraft Server Setup Guide

Ready to create your first Minecraft server? This guide walks you through every step, from account creation to inviting your first players.

  1. Create Your Free Account
    Head to skyzer.cloud and sign up for free. No credit card required. You'll get instant access to the Pterodactyl panel to manage your server.
  2. Create a New Server
    Click "Create Server" and choose your settings: Minecraft version (latest recommended), server type (vanilla, Paper, Spigot), server name, and RAM allocation. Start with 2GB RAM for up to 20 players.
  3. Understand the Pterodactyl Panel
    Your server dashboard shows real-time stats, console access, file manager, and configuration. Familiarize yourself with each section before launching.
  4. Basic Configuration
    Access server.properties file and set: motd (server message), gamemode (survival/creative), difficulty (peaceful to hard), pvp (true/false), and difficulty-lock (prevent changing in-game).
  5. Install Essential Plugins (Optional)
    For Paper servers, consider plugins like: EssentialsX (basic commands), WorldGuard (protection), LuckPerms (permissions).
  6. Start Your Server
    Click the "Start" button in the panel. Server takes 30-60 seconds to boot. Wait for the "Server started" message in the console.
  7. Find Your Server IP & Port
    In the panel, note your IP address and port (usually 25565). This is what you give to friends to join.
  8. Invite Players
    Share your server IP:Port with friends. They add it to their Minecraft server list and connect. That's it!

Next steps: Read our Server Optimization guide to improve performance as your player count grows!