Install Linux
Quick explanation: Linux isn’t just 1 operating system, it’s a type of OS ("I'd just like to interject..."). You can find a lot of different flavors to suit your needs (distributions, “distros”). There’s even a few like MineOS, made specifically to host servers. I use my server for way more than just Minecraft so I haven't used that.
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For this guide I’ll be using a lightweight variant of Ubuntu called Lubuntu.** I’m using a desktop version for ease of use, and the ability to use the server as a normal PC when needed (or run other apps – I’m using mine as a Plex server and Samba file share). Lubuntu comes packed with a lightweight environment/tweaks (desktop) so relatively low overhead and small install size. We need all the horsepower we can get, especially for modded Java servers.
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** I've since moved to Xubuntu because Lubuntu is using a heavier desktop environment. My RAM usage went way up. The distro choice is entirely up to you, and this guide will be applicable as long as it's Debian-based. **
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Hook up the server like you would any other desktop PC. Keyboard, mouse, monitor, internet, etc. Once you're at the desktop you can install remote software like VNC/SSH, RustDesk or NoMachine.
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Lets start.
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Head over to:
Choose “lubuntu Alternate 64-bit”. I've updated to 20.04 LTS (long term support) because it’ll be supported for years to come, and I don’t want to be updating (read: breaking) anything I set up on the server.
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Burn the ISO to a flash drive or a DVD using programs like Rufus or ImgBurn. Prepare it to be booted from and set your computer up to read USB/DVD before your boot hard drive. This will be in your BIOS/UEFI. Also now is the time to install and format your SSD. Here's an example from YouTube.
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**I’ll be using a virtual machine along with my real server to show everything so apologies if anything looks weird/different from your setup.**
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Boot into the Lubuntu installer.
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Start the installer in whatever language you need, and just follow the installer. If you've ever installed Windows it's sorta similar but just as easy. Read whatever pops up. There are a few guides on YouTube that can walk you through it.
Name the computer whatever you want.
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***NOT "minecraft" (later we’ll set the server programs to use its own user “minecraft” with its own permissions)***
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Now give your name for a user (or just any name like "Steve" or "Alex"), NOT "minecraft"
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Set a strong password.
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For partitioning, use “guided – use entire disk”. Install to your SSD.
Yes, yes, etc. now it’ll start installing the OS.
You can leave the package manager proxy blank, hit continue.
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Install the GRUB boot loader, set clock to your local time (UTC), remove USB and REBOOT!!
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Now we are at the Lubuntu desktop!!!
