Assuming that you wish to create a modded Minecraft server via CurseForge bed, the fastest method is to install CurseForge launcher, pick or create a modpack, download its server files and run them on your computer or on a rented host. It will require you to have Java, the appropriate size of RAM, and some basic understanding of how to set up.jar files. Friends are able to connect once it is installed, provided they are also using the same version of the modpack you are using. The following is a step-by-step account on how to get started.
In this blog, learn how to make a modded Minecraft server with CurseForge bed. Step-by-step guide to installing modpacks, setting up server files, configuring settings, and inviting friends.
1. Get to know What a Modded Server is
A modded Minecraft server allows you to use custom mods to allow players to have new blocks, mobs, biomes, or automation systems otherwise unavailable in vanilla Minecraft. Mods alter the mechanics of the game, and operating them on a server would mean that everyone would have the same experience. CurseForge is a well-known mod management platform since it allows downloading curated modpacks and maintaining them as up-to-date.
You should be aware of the difference between:
- Vanilla servers No modifications, only the base game.
- Modded servers- load mods using Forge or Fabric.
- Plugin servers These are commonly based on Bukkit/Spigot/Paper as lightweight add-ons.
2. Ready your Computer or Hosting Environment
A modded server uses more resources compared to vanilla. Here’s what you should check:
- OS: Windows, macOS or Linux are all compatible.
- Java: Install Java 17 or 21 (whichever the requirements of the modpack are).
- RAM: A minimum of 4GB allocated to the server to small packs; 6-8GB to heavier ones.
- Storage: 5GB or more (depending on the number of mods that you intend to install).
- Internet: The Internet must be able to support at least 5 Mbps upload speed (minimum, not maximum).
And in case your PC is not powerful enough, you can rent a game server with such hosts as Apex Hosting, BisectHosting, or ScalaCube, which can run CurseForge packs.
3. Install CurseForge Launcher
With CurseForge, it is easy to manage mods:
- Get CurseForge Launcher at curseforge.com.
- Install it and log in using a CurseForge or an Overwolf account.
- On the home page, select Minecraft.
- Browse through the modpacks or make your own custom pack.
This launcher also maintains a list of updates and versions of the mods, which is essential to compatibility with multiplayers.
4. Select/Design Your Modpack
Decide whether you’ll:
- Install a pre-existing modpack (e.g. RLCraft, SkyFactory, All the Mods).
- Make your own by choosing individual mods.
Pre-made packs are simpler to use especially when one is a beginner as they contain compatible mods and tested configs.
When you find a pack you like:
- Click Install in CurseForge.
- Wait till it has downloaded all the required files.
5. Download Server Files of the Modpack
The most popular packs are dedicated server files:
- On CurseForge, go to the page of the modpack.
- Find a Download server files (which is usually found on the Files tab).
- Get the .zip or.rar package and unpack it to a special folder (e.g. D:\MCServer).
Inside you’ll usually find:
- forge-<version>jar (or fabric-server-launch)jar.
- mods folder
- Configuration files
- A start.bat or start.sh script
6. Installing and Configuring the Server
- Install Java (unless it is already done).
- Open the server folder.
- Launch the start script that is given or run:
bash  Copy code java -Xmx4G -Xms4G -jar forge-<version>.jar nogui
Adjust -Xmx and -Xms to match the RAM you want to allocate.
- The first time the server will create files and require that you accept the EULA. open eula.txt and set false to true.
- Restart the server.
7. Setting up Server Properties
The following should be set in open server.properties:
- server-port= (default is 25565)
- motd= (message of the day)
- max-players= ( depends on your RAM and bandwidth)
- online-mode= (true unless you are testing off-line)
Save changes and restart.
8. Enable Connections via Firewall / Router
Assuming that you are hosting with your own computer:
- Add an inbound firewall rule of the server port (25565).
- Port forwarding is an option in the administration panel of your router:
- TCP/UDP forward on port 25565 to the local IP of your computer.
- Share your public IP address with your friends, or a service such as No-IP to use a static hostname.
9. Join Your Modded Server
To join:
- Start the same modpack in the CurseForge client.
- Click Multiplayer 2. Add server.
- Enter the host’s IP and port.
- Hit Join Server.
When it is all set up properly, you will be loaded into your new modded world.
10. Maintenance and Tips
- Backups: It is a good idea to copy your world folder and configs on a regular basis.
- Mod Updates: Stay up to date with the server on mods and Forge versions.
- Performance Tweaks: Tweak performance with FerriteCore, Sodium or Phosphor.
- Admin Tools: Add server utilities like FTB Essentials or JourneyMap Server to have a better control.
11. Alternative: Rent a CurseForge Server that is Managed
In case you do not want to play with port forwarding or performance limits:
- Buy a host which supports CurseForge modpacks.
- Install your modpack or select one of their one-click installer list.
- Their panel is used to update, back up and scale.
This is the best choice when you intend to operate a large community or when you want to have 24/7 uptime.
12. Diagnosing Basic Problems.
| Problem | Solution |
|---|---|
| Server crashes on launch | Check Java version, increase RAM, or ensure mods match the Minecraft version. |
| Players can’t connect | Verify IP/port, firewall rules, and that everyone uses the same modpack. |
| Lag or TPS drops | Allocate more RAM, remove heavy mods, or optimize server settings. |
| Mods missing | Confirm that all players installed the exact modpack build. |
Final Thoughts
One of the most appropriate methods to experience a customized experience with friends is creating a modded Minecraft server on CurseForge bed. It might not seem easy initially but once you have it figured out the process is not very difficult: install CurseForge, download or create a modpack, configure the server files, your settings and open up your world to others. Your customized server can be operating in just months or even years with frequent backups and intelligent optimization, and there is no limit to the new things you can discover.
