Server

A server provides a game environment for players to play multiplayer with others over the Internet or a local area network (LAN). Players are connected to a server using the Minecraft client software, and the server is hosted using the server software, as server.jar‌[JE only] or Bedrock Dedicated Server.‌[BE only]

Multiple archetypes of Minecraft multiplayer servers exist, distinguished by the unique gameplay features, rules, and societal structures that they implement. Each server is unique from the others, and often, the line between archetypes is blurred or indistinguishable. Many special types of servers rely on the use of map editors or the Creative game mode to build custom maps, and some use modded server software to provide additional features outside the vanilla experience. Some of these servers are heavily competitive, involving player versus player (PvP) and unique gameplay aspects of minigames; however, some simply followed the base vanilla survival experience.

Common archetypes found in Minecraft servers may include: