Some of you might be aware of the Blacklist generated by my honeypots as well as the KittyBlock plugin.

Today I am introducing KittyPaper into BETA. Instead of manipulating requests like KittyBlock had to do, KittyPaper allows to block and terminate requests before ever being handed over to the server logic.

KittyPaper is a Paper fork, so you can just replace your current installation without any compatibility issues.

The current differences between KittyPaper and Paper are:

• hide-online-players in server.properties is set to true by default to enhance player privacy.
• Players are always anonymized in the player sample sent by the server list ping response.
• Request blocking using the KittyBlock blocklist by default.
• A dashboard to view the requests blocked by your server: Demo
• Crowdsourced scanner detection: Servers can report requests that are likely to be scanners to help improve the blocklist for everyone.

These changes greatly reduce the exposure your server server has towards scanners and protect the privacy of your players.

The main target for this fork is everyone who runs their own little SMP style server. Other server types do also benefit of course.

Being in Beta there may still linger some issues so make sure to report them here or on GitHub.

You can download KittyPaper here: https://kittypaper.com/download

Important: KittyPaper will not prevent scanning or griefing outright, however it will reduce your visibility greatly. Please remember to take sensible precautions such as using a whitelist and taking regular backups.

I’ve run 2 servers in the past. Combined, they made over $20k USD. Not crazy money, but pretty solid for something you enjoy.

I learned everything on my own marketing, community, setup, so here are some real tips.

(This is for survival servers, not big networks)

• Don’t try to be ultra original
This might hurt, but it’s true. Player count doesn’t depend on how unique your server is.
Build something solid that works, then improve over time.

• Plugins: quality > price
You don’t need premium plugins.
Some free ones are just as good or better.
Focus on optimization and stability.

• Consider crossplay (Geyser)
It opens your server to more players (Java + Bedrock).
Yes, there are limitations (GUIs, textures, etc.), but it’s usually worth it.

• Don’t have multiple owners
Avoid partners just because of money.
Conflicts kill servers.
It’s better to stay solo and hire staff.

• Avoid Pay2Win → go for Pay2Fast
Running a server is expensive.
The key is speeding up progress, not breaking the game.
Think crates, ranks, cosmetics, seasonal rewards.

• Marketing is EVERYTHING
You can have the best server ever… if no one sees it, it’s dead.

Post short-form content (TikTok, Reels, Shorts).
9:16 format. Post consistently.

Good example: DonutSMP.
Not the most complex server, but insane marketing.

• Don’t do it just for money
If you don’t actually enjoy Minecraft, it won’t work.
Passion first, money comes later.

If you have questions, feel free to DM me (just be respectful 👍)

I recently started hosting a 1.21.11 server and it's been a fun but challenging experience. I want to make sure I don't make any major mistakes that could ruin the world or the community.

For the veteran server owners out there, what is one tough lesson or mistake you made early on that you wish you knew to avoid?

I genuinely don't understand how some people can demand a premium experience from Minecraft hosting when they're not even paying for it! For people who are new to Minecraft hosting, let's put this into perspective.

A Minecraft server typically requires at least 2GB of allocated RAM just for it to be stable. Since free Minecraft hosting easily gets popular, multiply this by 100 to cover each customer using the service, and that alone requires a dedicated server to keep each server running 24/7.

For a premium experience, you would need an AMD Ryzen CPU and 1 gigabit of shared bandwidth. All of that sums up to over €1000, and without profit, that's just impossible to scale.

Put simply, a free Minecraft server isn't simply "just give me 2GB of RAM". The costs of premium Minecraft hosting in general is over €200 to start, and without profit that is simply not affordable in the long-term.

Let me know in the comments what you guys think.

Recently got back into Minecraft and started looking back into the plugin/modding world. Was surprised to see this announced today, curious what this means for the future of server/client side customization.

Personally, have little experience with the client side mods, but I imagine this means we can drop libraries like Bukkit (which mostly only handle remappings) and focus more on performance driven frameworks or go fully custom off of the Mojang provided version.

What are your thoughts?

Early this morning, a player attempted to use the log4j exploit on my server. Is there any risk that it has not been patched for the online players? The server itself is using log4j 2.24, so is safe. Since this was patched a long time ago, why would this would-be hacker still attempting to use it?

I'm developing a Minecraft server and I'm trying to make it as good as I can. So whats some stuff you think Minecraft servers should stop doing? Ignoring the obvious, like predatory gambling and P2W mechanics, of course. Any replies are appreciated :3

Personally I think Minecraft servers need to stop overloading the tablist with information by using player slots, imo it makes it visually unappealing and can be horrendous to look at especially during casual play.

I understand this can be subjective but please be nice in the replies

(I will be making another post for what you think we need to see more of on Minecraft servers)

Hey,

I’ve been wondering for a while… what’s the most annoying or just plain tedious thing you have to deal with when running a Minecraft server (especially if you have more than one), or even when you’re just playing on one?

Like port forwarding, dealing with mods and CurseForge, lag, backups, players, updates… that kind of stuff.

What makes you the most frustrated or just makes you go “ugh not this again”?

Curious to hear real answers.

Thanks.

Hey everyone, top moderator REPO here. As with anything, Admincraft is changing over time. When we made the "new" rules a year ago, we had different issues to deal with than we do today.

We've written up a new set of rules to try to keep Admincraft a safe, enjoyable, and effective community free of nuisance topics.

Before we implement these, I'd love for the community to get together and tear it to pieces, point out weaknesses, suggest additions or removals, etc.

Ultimately, we want to have rules that YOU FOLKS want, so if something here doesn't serve you, tell us why!

1. Posts must be relevant to Minecraft server administration, development, or ownership.

   1.1. Posts must not be primarily about issues with the Minecraft client, a client-side mod, a client-side modpack, client-side errors, or client-side settings.

   1.2. Posts must be primarily related to Minecraft-specific server administration topics. General computer use, general home server, and business administration related topics belong in other subreddits.

2. Posts must be made with a minimum degree of effort, and must include as much diagnostic information as possible without being asked. Five extra minutes of your time will get you answers 10x faster.

   2.1. Posts must have a descriptive title that represents the topic, question, or issue. Titles like "error with my server" or "plugin help" are not allowed. Write a full sentence.

   2.2. Posts must be written and formatted legibly, in English, and be understandable.

   2.2.1. Please avoid using LLMs for post formatting, except for accessibility reasons (disabilities, etc). 🆕
   
   2.2.2. Please use a translation app (not an LLM) if you are not comfortable with English. 🆕
   

   2.3. Posts must include a list of everything you have already tried while attempting to solve your own problem.

   2.4. Posts about performance must include server specs or hosting package.

   2.5. Posts about performance must include a Spark report that will not expire that was taken during the perceived performance issues.

   2.6. Posts about performance or errors must include a plugin list, mod list, and/or datapack list for both client and server.

   2.7. Posts about performance or errors must include a description of the steps needed to reproduce the issue on the server where the issue is occurring.

   2.8. Posts about errors must include a relevant log (not a crash report) uploaded to https://mclo.gs (not in the post body).

   2.9. Posts about hardware or hosting package must include a summary of your requirements, including budget, approximate location, player count, mods/plugins, form factor, etc.

   2.10. Posts requesting recommendations for plugins, mods, or datapacks must name BOTH a specific function you desire or problem you are trying to solve AND options you have found and considered, as well as why they do not satisfy your requirements. 🆕

   2.11. Posts may not ask generic, highly-subjective questions like "how do I make my server fun?" or "what features should I add?" or "what's the best type of server?" 🆕

3. No discussion of piracy. Mojang watches Admincraft, so we must uphold US intellectual property law to continue serving the community.

   3.1. No mention of Offline Mode (aka "cracked") servers, unless that server is EITHER behind an Online Mode proxy, OR BOTH has no access to the internet AND all local players have a legally acquired Minecraft account.

   3.2. No mention of software (including plugins) that in any way enable, facilitate, or secure the use of an Offline Mode server as defined by Rule 3.1.

   3.3. No mention of the use or acquisition of software that defeats or circumvents the software license provided by the owner or creator of that software.

   3.4. No mention of griefing Offline Mode servers. You are not Batman. You're just a bully.

   3.5. No mention of your Offline Mode server being griefed. You signed up for this by running an Offline Mode server.

4. Server advertising is not allowed.

   4.1. Using your server as an example of a feature, to demonstrate polish or functionality, or as comparison while helping a user with a question is allowed.

5. Projects and products may be posted once per 28 days, as long as they abide by the following criteria:

   5.1. The project or product is completely free to use with no restrictions.

   5.2. The project or product has no monetization that requires the user to pay money for full or superior functionality or access. Patreon, for example, is fine as long as it is entirely optional. Ads are also fine.

   5.3. The project or product is source-available.

   5.4. The project or product has not been created with the use of significant AI code generation. Autocomplete, templates, and basic project scaffolding are allowed.

6. Commercial transactions and advertisements are not allowed.

   6.1. Recruiting developers, admins, builders, moderators, etc is not allowed, regardless if the position is paid or unpaid.

   6.2. Posting or commenting an advertisement, portfolio, website, or Discord server offering your services as a developer, admin, builder, moderator, etc is not allowed, regardless of whether your services are paid or unpaid.

   6.3. Hosting companies you own or are employed by may not be shared.

   6.4. No "astroturfing". This is the act of pretending to be an uninvolved, authentic user of the product or service so as to attempt to build rapport with other users.

   6.5. No host recommendations. The host you use may be mentioned if and only if it is relevant to the specific issue you are having.

7. No spreading of misinformation.

   7.1. We are all here to learn and grow together, so when corrected, don't argue, ask questions.

8. Follow Reddiquette and treat others with respect and kindness.

   8.1. No personal attacks. Attack the idea, not the person.

   8.2. Engage in discussions charitably. Do not attempt to corner other users or make them appear to be foolish.

   8.3. Use language that is respectful and friendly. Avoid hatespeech, excessive profanity, and insults.

   8.4. There is always someone with more experience than you. Engage in discussions with humility, and ask for sources or credentials if you doubt your conversation partner.

Hey all, I wanted to share something I made for my community SMP to inspire other server owners who might want to make something similar!

I extracted the stats files from the world folder and processed them to create a “wrapped” website for my players, comparing them to each other.

Would love to know what you all think of the site, and whether you've got any suggestions for extra stats that would be cool to surface

We added Create trains thinking people would use them for utility and transport…

Instead, it somehow turned into full-on server culture.

Players started building stations near their bases, decorating routes, making “public transit” lines between towns, and now people literally take trains just to go visit each other’s builds.

It unintentionally became one of the strongest community-building mechanics on the server because it created reasons for players to interact naturally instead of just teleporting everywhere.

Honestly one of my favorite examples of mods creating gameplay we never planned for.

Anyone else have a mod that unexpectedly became a social feature on their server? We're running a Forge 1.20.1 server... and we love having community-centered mods/features. Thoughts?

I'm the owner of a Minecraft server, and a friend of mine (Lodjo28) has been working on something I've never really seen done before on a vanilla Minecraft network.

For our project, we needed players to move between backend servers without the usual disconnect, reconnect, world reload or loading screen.

So he built a fully server-side "seamless transfer" system.

The video below is a proof of concept.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6i3NGjgjXhM

Bottom left is the game.
Top left is the proxy.
Top right and bottom right are the two backend servers.

You'll see the player leave one backend server and join another, while the client continues rendering the world without any disconnect, loading screen or world reload.

Some information in the consoles has been intentionally redacted, such as internal addresses and infrastructure details. It doesn't affect the demonstration, but I prefer not to expose parts of our production environment. Very sorry about this.

We're intentionally keeping the implementation private. It represents a significant amount of engineering for our project and is tightly integrated into our own infrastructure. The goal of this post isn't to explain how it works, only to show that it can be done.

Curious to hear what people think.

The creator of skyblock.net, the original Skyblock server, unfortunately lost the trademark case against Microsoft and other companies part of the Minecraft Marketplace after years of battling them. And honestly, this just feels disgusting and saddening..

A person creates an iconic Minecraft gamemode at just 15 years old, spends years and years building it, then gets crushed by these massive corporations who have more money and lawyers. These companies are able to make all this revenue because they are leeching off of someone's unique idea and labelling it as their own, claiming how Skyblock is generic when it's really not; it was something that Noobcrew made at just 15 and spent years working on it. How would you feel if someone stole your lifelong's work, claiming it is generic, then using your idea to make money. You would feel so wronged.

He's now accumulated $350,000 in legal debt and has to remove the original files because of how this ended. It's a shame how large companies steal smaller companies' ideas and use it for their profit. Disgusting.

It's not just about the legal outcome though, it's about the message that is sent. Big corporations can sweep smaller corporations' lifelong work and use it for their benefit. The argument that Skyblock is generic is just a way for them to avoid having to face the reality; that they did not come up with the idea and they are leeching off of someone else's work.

Minecraft was built on community creativity and modification culture (i.e. mods and plugins that help to change aspects of the game). Seeing a popular gamemode's original owner be buried by these large corporations is depressing.

You do not have to agree with the legal argument he made to see how unfair this is on a human level. If you have compassion in your heart, you would see the negative effects of this decision. It's caused both financial and emotional damage. His lifelong work is claimed as generic when he spent over a decade of his life to work on it. Shameful of Microsoft and the other companies for doing this.

Twelve companies versus 1 independent creator was never going to be a fair fight unfortunately.

If you want to read more about this and share your thoughts, check out the thread with more details here: https://skyblock.net/threads/skyblock-vs-microsoft-final-legal-outcome.147906/

I made a minecraft honeypot server for griefers. The honeypot would spawn a new instance of a minecraft server for every connection, and destroy the instance when the player disconnects. It would also record everything the player does to a replaymod file, so the griefing session can be replayed.

Here is a link to the project: https://github.com/sduoduo233/minehoneypot Checkout the demo recording in the readme

I run a long standing semi-vanilla SMP server, and today was our 9th anniversary. When I joined the staff team in 2020, we would average 40-50 players online. Now, six years later, that number has slowly fallen and we average 0-5. We have done our best to take suggestions from the community, and have continually tried to keep up with the game in terms of quality of life improvements, cosmetics, etc.

It seems that Minecraft's new system of updates has entirely screwed over our sever. In the past, throughout the update cycle players would dwindle. Then, when we updated and reset (about once a year), the community would refresh itself. Now, with updates coming out every three months, we feel constantly behind as plugins take weeks to update and there is no obvious time to reset and refresh the community. Updates and resets no longer bring a feeling of excitement.

TLDR: What are modern Minecraft players looking for in an SMP? What needs to be done by administrators so that we can survive the current state of the game without being pulled under?

I have noticed this on many multiplayer servers that you rarely see the admin or the owner online.

When I started my own server I started playing as a regular player with an alt account, so that I can know what is going on in the server without players trying to ping you or be mindful of the server owner being around them.

I have a suspicion that a lot of server owners do the same.