Your First Server

This guide creates a working Minecraft (Paper) server. The same steps apply to any game: pick a template, choose resources, create, install, start.

Prerequisites

• An account on a Catalyst panel (your host or administrator provides this).
• A node with free memory, disk, and at least one free allocation. If creation fails, ask your administrator — see server issues.

1. Create the server

1. Open Servers and select Create Server.
2. Give the server a name you will recognize, for example Survival SMP.
3. Choose the Minecraft nest and the Paper template.
4. Pick the node to run it on (usually there is only one).
5. Accept the suggested memory, disk, and CPU limits unless you know you need more.
6. Assign an allocation (IP + port) for players to join through.
7. Select Create. Catalyst installs the game files automatically — this can take a few minutes. Watch progress in the Console tab.

Caution

Creating a server allocates real resources on the node. Delete test servers you no longer need so they stop consuming memory and disk.

2. Accept the Minecraft EULA

Minecraft servers stop on first boot until you accept the EULA:

1. Open the Files tab and open eula.txt.
2. Change eula=false to eula=true and save.
3. Return to Console and start the server again.

3. Start and join

1. Press Start in the console header and wait for the Done! message.
2. Copy the server address from the server header (allocation IP + port).
3. In Minecraft, use Multiplayer → Add Server and paste the address.

Next steps

• Use the console — commands, power controls, and logs.
• Upload files and use SFTP — worlds, plugins, and configs.
• Make a backup before experimenting.
• Add a friend as a subuser instead of sharing your login.