Running an Eaglercraft server might sound complicated at first, but once you understand how it works, it's actually pretty straightforward.
The main difference from a normal Minecraft server is that players are connecting from a browser instead of the official game. Browsers don't support the same kind of direct network connection Minecraft uses, so a small bridge is needed in between. That's exactly what EaglerXServer does: it translates browser connections into something your Minecraft server can understand.
So instead of players launching Minecraft, they just open a link, type a username, and join instantly. Behind the scenes, it's still a real Minecraft server with plugins, worlds, and everything you'd expect; just with a different entry point.
STEP 1 — DOWNLOAD
First, download EaglerXServer.
This is the easiest way to get started because it already includes everything you need — the proxy, the WebSocket bridge, and the backend setup all in one file.
You'll also need Java 17 or newer installed. If you're not sure, just install the latest version and you're good. Once that's done, put the jar file in a new folder where you want your server to live.
STEP 2 — RUN IT
Now just run this command in your terminal:
The first time you start it, it will automatically create all the files it needs. You don't have to configure anything yet. Just let it run once.
You'll see a bunch of text in the console, which is normal. It's just the server setting itself up.
STEP 3 — CONFIGURE
After the first run, you'll notice new config files appear. This is where you can tweak things like ports, player limits, and server behavior.
The most important thing is the WebSocket port, which is what browser players connect to. If that's not set up correctly, nobody will be able to join.
If you're planning to host publicly, this is also where you might set up a domain name and prepare for HTTPS.
STEP 4 — OPEN PORTS
This is where most people get stuck.
You need to open your ports so other players can connect. Usually this means:
• Port 25565 (Minecraft)
• Your WebSocket port (from config)
If you're hosting from home, you'll need to port forward on your router. If you're using a VPS, you'll need to allow the ports in your firewall.
If players can't connect, this is almost always the reason.
ADVANCED — NETWORKS
If you want to go beyond a single server, you can plug Eaglercraft into a BungeeCord or Velocity network.
This lets you run multiple servers (like survival, minigames, etc.) and connect them together. Eaglercraft players join through the proxy, and everything else works like a normal Minecraft network.
You don't need this to start, but it's how larger servers are built.
OLDER CLIENTS
Want to support older versions like 1.5.2?
Use EaglerXRewind. It basically translates old client data so they can connect to modern servers.
Think of it like a compatibility layer similar to ViaVersion.
Once your server is running, you can expand it with additional tools. BackendRPC lets your backend servers talk directly to the proxy.
EaglerWeb allows you to host files straight from your server. EaglerMOTD customizes how your server appears in server lists, and
EaglerXPlan gives you analytics about your players.
If you're running something larger, EaglerXSupervisor helps manage multiple proxies and keep everything in sync.
If something isn't working, it's usually one of a few things.
• Players can't connect → ports aren't open
• Server shows but won't join → proxy/backend mismatch
• Lag → not enough RAM or weak CPU
• Browser errors → missing HTTPS
Most problems come down to networking. Once that's correct, everything else usually falls into place.