Creating a Server
Create a new Minecraft server from scratch with any supported type.
Cliff supports seven server types out of the box. The creation wizard walks you through four steps: type, version, resources, and review.
Supported server types
| Type | Description | Needs loader |
|---|---|---|
| Vanilla | Unmodified Minecraft server from Mojang | No |
| Paper | High-performance fork of Spigot | No |
| Purpur | Performance-focused fork of Paper | No |
| Folia | Multithreaded fork of Paper | No |
| Fabric | Lightweight modding toolchain | Yes |
| Forge | Classic modding API | Yes |
| NeoForge | Modern fork of Forge | Yes |
The creation wizard
Step 1 — Type
Pick a server type and give your server a name. Default names are provided (e.g. "New Fabric Server") but you can customize them.
Step 2 — Version
Select the Minecraft version from the dropdown. Cliff fetches the full list of available versions from Mojang's version manifest. For modded types, you'll also select a loader version.
Step 3 — Resources
Configure the runtime resources:
- Minimum memory (MB) — The initial heap size (
-Xms) - Maximum memory (MB) — The maximum heap size (
-Xmx) - Server port — The port players connect to (default: 25565)
- Java path — Leave as
autoto let Cliff detect it, or specify a path - Extra JVM arguments — Any additional flags (e.g. Aikar's flags for G1GC tuning)
Step 4 — Review
Confirm all settings, then click Create. Cliff downloads the server JAR and any required loader files. Once complete, the server appears in your sidebar.
After creation
The server is created in a stopped state. To start it:
- Select the server in the sidebar
- Click Start in the server header
- Accept the EULA prompt on first start
- Watch the console for startup logs
Tip
If you're running a modded server, make sure to install your mods before the first start. See the Mods & Plugins guide.