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Running a modpack with friends? Godlike.Host offers modded Minecraft server hosting with one-click modpacks (CurseForge, FTB, Technic) and free DDoS protection.
To make an MC Eternal server, download the matching MC Eternal server pack from its CurseForge project, extract it into a dedicated folder, run the included Forge launcher with a compatible Java runtime, accept the Minecraft EULA, and configure networking. MC Eternal is built for Minecraft: Java Edition 1.12.2 and Forge, so every player must use the same modpack release and Forge profile as the server.
Plan for at least 5.5 GB of allocated server memory; the project’s detailed guidance recommends 8 GB or more. The practical amount depends on player count, exploration, view distance, automation, and what else is running on the host.
What an MC Eternal server is
MC Eternal is a large Forge modpack for Minecraft 1.12.2. Its CurseForge project description advertises more than 1,000 quests and challenges, and the project page displayed 4,847,572 downloads when checked. The project listed release 1.6.3.1 on December 16, 2024.
A server is not created by installing only the client profile. You need the separate server pack, which is assembled for dedicated-server use. CurseForge’s server-pack guidance says a normal pack includes the mods and config directories; it may also include startup scripts and a server.properties file.
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This setup is compatible with Minecraft: Java Edition only. Bedrock Edition clients cannot join it.
Choose between self-hosting and managed hosting
Decide where the server will run before downloading anything. Self-hosting gives you direct control, while managed hosting trades some control for simpler deployment and an always-on machine.
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One free scan finds every outdated or missing driver and matches the right update for your exact hardware.Free scan · exact hardware match| Consideration | Self-hosted computer | Managed MC Eternal hosting |
|---|---|---|
| Upfront cost | Usually limited to hardware and your existing internet connection; exact cost depends on equipment you already own. | Requires a paid hosting plan. Current prices and promotions vary by provider and date. |
| Recurring cost | Electricity, internet service, storage replacement, and any hardware upgrades. | Monthly hosting charge, typically based on memory, region, storage, and service features. |
| Control | Full access to scripts, logs, configuration, mods, backups, and operating-system settings. | Control is provided through the host panel; file and mod access depends on the plan. |
| Setup effort | You install Java, extract the pack, configure memory, open the firewall, and possibly forward a router port. | The provider provisions the machine and usually supplies a panel for startup, files, backups, and console access. |
| Maintenance responsibility | You handle Java compatibility, updates, backups, security, uptime, and recovery. | The provider handles the physical host and panel, but you still manage pack versions, worlds, permissions, and many configuration issues. |
| Latency | Depends on your home upload connection and the distance between players and your home. | You select an available region; a region near most players generally gives better latency. |
| Joining friends | You must give players the correct reachable address and port and keep the server online. | A panel may provide a hostname or an invitation/import workflow. |
When self-hosting makes sense
- You want complete access to the world, scripts, logs, and backups.
- You can leave a computer running and have sufficient upload bandwidth.
- You are comfortable configuring a firewall and, when necessary, router port forwarding.
- You want to avoid a monthly hosting bill and accept responsibility for downtime.
When managed hosting makes sense
- You need an always-on server without keeping a home computer running.
- Your internet connection uses carrier-grade NAT or does not permit inbound connections.
- Your group prefers a control panel for changing versions, restarting the server, and managing files.
- You want the provider to handle the underlying machine while you manage the Minecraft world.
The MC Eternal project page promotes a preconfigured hosting option and states that at least 5.5 GB should be allocated, with 8 GB or more recommended in its detailed description. Confirm current pricing, locations, included backups, cancellation terms, and availability before purchasing.
Requirements before installation
Hardware and operating system
- A 64-bit computer or virtual server with enough physical memory to reserve for Minecraft while leaving memory for the operating system.
- Fast, reliable storage. A solid-state drive generally makes world loading and chunk generation less disruptive than a heavily used mechanical disk.
- A stable network connection. For home hosting, upload capacity matters because the server sends world and entity updates to every connected player.
- Permission to install software, create firewall rules, and, if needed, change router port-forwarding settings.
Java and Minecraft edition
Install a Java runtime that can launch the selected Minecraft 1.12.2 Forge server. The MC Eternal project information does not pin one universal Java major version, so do not assume that the Java bundled with a modern Minecraft launcher is automatically suitable. Check the Forge launcher’s requirements and the server log if startup fails.
Verify which Java executable your command prompt will use:
java -versionIf the command is not found, install a supported 64-bit runtime and reopen the command prompt or terminal. If the server reports an unsupported class version, a missing runtime, or a Forge-specific Java error, install the major version indicated by that error or by the Forge distribution you selected. Use the same tested runtime each time you start the server.
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Memory planning
| Guidance | Meaning |
|---|---|
| 5.5 GB | The minimum amount recommended in the MC Eternal project description. Treat it as a starting point, not a guarantee for every group or workload. |
| 8 GB or more | The project’s detailed recommendation. This leaves more room for a large mod set, exploration, automation, and multiple players. |
| More than the host can spare | Not useful. Leave memory for the operating system, Java overhead, file caching, and other services; allocating all physical RAM can cause swapping or crashes. |
Start with the project’s recommendation, then observe the server console and tick performance during normal play. Raise the allocation only when the host has unused physical memory and logs show memory pressure. Lower it if the operating system begins swapping or other services become unstable.
Download the correct MC Eternal server pack
- Open the MC Eternal project on CurseForge and go to its files or server-pack downloads.
- Choose the release your players will install. The server and every client must use the identical MC Eternal version; do not mix a client release with a different server release.
- Download the server pack rather than the ordinary client profile. A client profile alone usually lacks the dedicated-server launch files and server-side layout.
- Create a new, dedicated folder for the server. Use a short path such as
C:MinecraftMCEternalon Windows or~/servers/mc-eternalon Linux. Do not place the world inside a temporary downloads directory. - Extract the archive directly into that folder. Confirm that the extracted directory contains the server pack’s
mods,config, scripts, and any Forge launcher files supplied by the pack.
Do not merge files from two MC Eternal releases. If you change versions, make a complete world backup first and follow the newer pack’s migration notes.
Configure the startup script and Java memory
Windows
Server packs commonly include a Windows batch file. Open it in a text editor and locate the Java startup line. Add or adjust the initial and maximum heap values, keeping the values within the memory available on the machine. For an 8 GB allocation, a typical line is:
java -Xms8G -Xmx8G -jar forge-1.12.2-server.jar noguiThe exact launcher filename can differ. Use the Forge jar that actually exists in your extracted folder, or retain the command supplied by the pack and edit only its -Xms and -Xmx values. Save the file, then launch the batch file from the server folder so relative paths resolve correctly.
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- The classic UNO card game builds fun on game night with a Minecraft theme.
- UNO Minecraft features a deck and storage tin decorated with graphics from the popular video game.
- Players match colors and numbers to the card on top of the discard pile as in the classic game.
- The Creeper card unique to this deck forces other players to draw 3 cards.
- Makes a great gift for kid, teen, adult and family game nights with 2 to 10 players ages 7 years and older, especially Minecraft and video game fans.
Linux or macOS
If the pack supplies a shell script, make it executable and edit the same memory flags:
chmod +x start.sh
./start.shIf there is no script, run the supplied Forge launcher from the extracted directory:
java -Xms8G -Xmx8G -jar forge-1.12.2-server.jar noguiDo not run the command from a different directory unless you deliberately provide absolute paths. Forge expects to find the pack’s libraries, mods, and configuration relative to the server installation.
What the memory flags mean
-Xms8Gsets Java’s initial heap size to 8 GB.-Xmx8Gsets the maximum heap size to 8 GB.noguistarts the server without the graphical desktop window, reducing overhead on a dedicated machine.
The values are examples based on the project’s 8 GB recommendation. If your host has less available memory, do not assign 8 GB blindly; use a lower value only when it remains adequate for your player group and leave room for the operating system.
Start the server, accept the EULA, and initialize files
- Run the included startup script or the Forge command once. The first run may take several minutes while Forge creates libraries, configuration files, and the world directory.
- Wait for startup to stop with an EULA notice. This first run is expected to exit before the server is usable.
- Open the generated
eula.txtfile and read the Minecraft EULA. Changeeula=falsetoeula=trueonly if you agree to it. - Save the file and start the server again.
- Wait for a console message indicating that the server has finished loading before attempting to connect. The first world generation can take longer than subsequent starts.
- Stop the server from its console with
stop; avoid closing the terminal or killing the process while chunks are being written.
After a successful initialization, the folder should contain the world directory, server.properties, logs, and the pack’s configuration and mod files.
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- Now Minecraft lovers can play a special version of UNO!
- Same as Basic UNO but features Minecraft characters and includes special Creeper rule card. Draw this card and the other players have to draw three more cards from the pile!
- The goal is to get rid of all the cards in your hand.
- First player or team to 500 wins.
- When you're down to one card, don't forget to yell "UNO"!
Set basic server properties and permissions
Stop the server before editing server.properties. Changes made while the server is running may be overwritten or ignored. Useful settings include:
| Setting | Purpose | Practical guidance |
|---|---|---|
server-port |
TCP port used by the Minecraft server. | The common default is 25565. Keep it unless another service already uses it. |
motd |
Message shown in the multiplayer list. | Use a short description that identifies the world and pack release. |
max-players |
Maximum simultaneous players allowed by the server setting. | Set it to a level your hardware and connection can support rather than choosing an arbitrary large number. |
white-list |
Restricts access to approved player names. | Enable it for a private group and add players from the console. |
view-distance |
Controls how many chunks the server sends around players. | Lower it if chunk generation or network traffic causes lag; raise it only after testing. |
online-mode |
Controls account authentication. | Understand the security consequences before changing the default; do not disable authentication casually. |
Use the console to manage access. The exact command syntax follows standard Java Edition server commands:
whitelist on
whitelist add PlayerName
op PlayerName
save-all
stopGive operator status only to people who need administrative commands. Keep the whitelist enabled for a private server and remove names you no longer trust.
Allow friends to connect over the internet
Players on the same home network
For a local session, friends can connect using the host computer’s private IPv4 address and the configured port. The host firewall must allow Java or the server port on the private network profile.
Players outside your home
- Assign the host computer a stable private address through your router’s DHCP reservation or a static network configuration.
- Create an inbound firewall rule allowing the server’s TCP port, normally
25565, on the network profile you actually use. - Forward that same port from the router’s internet-facing interface to the host computer’s private address and port.
- Restart the server and test from outside the home network, for example through a mobile connection. Testing only from inside the same network can produce misleading results because some routers do not support hairpin connections.
- Give friends your public address and port. If you use a non-default port, provide it in the form
address:port.
Some internet providers use carrier-grade NAT, which prevents unsolicited inbound connections even when router settings appear correct. In that case, use a host that provides a public endpoint, request a public address from your provider, or use another permitted networking solution. Do not publish your home address in public communities; share connection details only with people you trust.
Common networking symptoms
- “Connection refused”: the server is stopped, listening on another port, or blocked by the host firewall.
- “Connection timed out”: the router forward, public address, firewall rule, or carrier-grade NAT is usually the problem.
- Friends can connect locally but not remotely: the server itself is working; focus on the router’s WAN-to-LAN forward and external testing.
- The address changes: your public IP may be dynamic. Supply the current address or use a legitimate dynamic-DNS arrangement you control.
Install the matching client on every player’s computer
- Have each player install the same MC Eternal release selected for the server.
- Have each player use the Minecraft: Java Edition profile and Forge version required by that release.
- Do not add, remove, or replace mods casually. A missing mod, a different mod version, or a changed configuration can prevent the handshake.
- Launch the profile once locally so its files are created, then connect using the server address and port.
The most common joining failure is a version mismatch. Record the exact pack release in your server’s message of the day and tell players to update their client before troubleshooting Java or networking.
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Troubleshoot startup and joining failures
The server closes immediately
- Read the final lines of the console and the newest file in
logs; the first reported error is usually more useful than the final crash summary. - Confirm that you ran the supplied Forge launcher, not a vanilla Minecraft server jar.
- Run
java -versionand compare the installed runtime with the Forge version’s requirements. - Check that the working directory contains the pack’s libraries,
mods, andconfigdirectories. - Confirm that the startup script points to the actual launcher filename and that the memory allocation is possible on the host.
Out-of-memory errors or severe lag
- Check whether the host is swapping or has exhausted physical memory.
- Close unrelated applications and leave operating-system memory available.
- Start with the project’s 5.5 GB minimum or 8 GB recommendation as appropriate for the machine, then adjust after observing real workloads.
- Reduce view distance and avoid exploring new terrain with many players simultaneously if chunk generation is the bottleneck.
- Do not repeatedly increase
-Xmxwithout checking physical RAM; a larger heap cannot compensate for insufficient CPU, storage, or network capacity.
“Missing mods” or handshake errors
- Compare the client and server MC Eternal release numbers character for character.
- Reinstall the client profile from the same release instead of copying individual mods from an unrelated pack.
- Verify that the server’s
modsandconfigdirectories came from the intended server pack. - Remove accidental client-only additions from the server only when the pack documentation identifies them as client-only; do not delete files merely because their names look unfamiliar.
The world will not load after an update
- Stop the server and make a complete copy of the world directory and configuration.
- Restore the previous pack release and confirm that the backup starts.
- Read the new release notes for migration requirements.
- Test the updated release on a separate copy before replacing the live world.
Backups, updates, and routine administration
Back up the right files
Stop the server before making a full backup, or use a backup method that explicitly supports live Minecraft worlds. Include the world directory, server.properties, whitelist and operator files, the config directory, and any custom scripts. Keep at least one copy on a different disk or machine from the server.
Apply updates safely
- Announce maintenance and stop the server cleanly with
stop. - Copy the complete server directory or, at minimum, the world and all customized configuration.
- Download the intended MC Eternal server-pack release and verify that clients will use the same release.
- Extract the update into a new test directory rather than overwriting the live installation immediately.
- Start the test copy, inspect logs, and connect with a test client.
- Schedule the live migration only after the test world loads and backups are verified.
Never replace the pack while the server process is running. A partial overwrite can leave incompatible mods, libraries, or configuration files.
Using a managed MC Eternal service
CurseForge Servers provides a paid workflow for modpacks that have matching server packs. The general process is to select the modpack, choose a plan and region, enter server details, and then manage the provisioned instance through the hosting panel.
After provisioning, the owner can share a direct link or import code. Friends can use that information to add the server profile and connection details to their CurseForge apps, which reduces manual entry and helps keep the client profile aligned with the hosted pack. You still need to confirm the exact release, memory allocation, region, backup policy, and current price before committing.
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A practical first-session checklist
- The server pack and all clients use the same MC Eternal release.
- The server is running Minecraft 1.12.2 Forge under a compatible Java runtime.
- The host has at least 5.5 GB available for the server, with 8 GB or more preferred when the machine can spare it.
- The EULA was read and accepted by setting
eula=true. - The startup script points to the correct Forge launcher and uses suitable
-Xmsand-Xmxvalues. - The firewall allows the configured server port.
- Router forwarding is configured when outside players must connect.
- The whitelist and operator list contain only intended users.
- A tested world backup exists before anyone begins substantial building or exploration.
- Players know whether they should connect through a local address, public address, hostname, or managed-host panel address.
The Bottom Line
The reliable formula is simple: use the matching MC Eternal server pack, run its 1.12.2 Forge launcher with compatible Java, allocate at least 5.5 GB (preferably 8 GB or more when available), accept the EULA, secure the server, and make clients match the server exactly. Self-hosting maximizes control; managed hosting reduces infrastructure work but adds a recurring cost.
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