PixelServers
Self-hosted control panel
The Minecraft process and world files stay on your PC. PixelServers has no monthly server-hosting fee; you supply hardware, power, and internet.
Runs on your computer
Source: How PixelServers worksA local Minecraft server panel
Your Pixels. Your Server. Your Possibilities.
Build and manage a Java server from a clear control panel. Your computer runs the world, and your files stay with you. No monthly server rental.
Free control panel Windows, macOS & Linux helper Worlds stay local
PixelServers / ServersSERVER OVERVIEW
RunningMeadow SMP
Meadow SMPPaper · 1.21.8 · local host
25565 OnlinePLAYERS2 / 20
MEMORY2.4 / 4 GB
UPTIME1h 24m
RECENT CONSOLE OUTPUT SAMPLE
[Server thread/INFO]: Preparing spawn area: 100%[Server thread/INFO]: Done (2.43s)! Type "help" for help[Server thread/INFO]: There are 2 of a max 20 players onlineConsolePlayersPluginsFilesSettings
The panel runs in your browser. The server and its files stay on your computer.
01Local first
Your PC runs the world.
02Pick your software
Paper, Fabric, Forge, Vanilla, and more.
03Public when ready
Choose a network setup that fits.
The hosting model
A control panel. Your own computer.
PixelServers does not rent you a server machine. It gives you a practical way to install and manage Minecraft software on the PC you already own.
These products use different hosting models. With PixelServers and SquidServers, your computer runs the game; hosted providers run it on their infrastructure. Compare the hardware, network, and support each model puts in your hands.
SquidServers
Self-hosted desktop app
The Minecraft server runs on the user's own computer; the app is free to use.
Minehut
Hosted free tier and paid upgrades
Minehut runs the server; its published free plan lists up to five servers, 1 GB RAM, and 10 player slots.
Shockbyte
Paid managed hosting
Shockbyte provisions and runs the server on its hosting hardware under a paid plan.
Apex Hosting
Paid managed hosting
Apex runs the server on provider hardware through a paid plan.
Provider information is taken from each provider's public product or support pages, checked November 6, 2026. Plans and features can change; use the linked source for current details. This compares operating models and published features, not performance or service quality.
Made for the work of running a server
Keep the busywork out of the way.
Create a world, keep it maintained, and make changes from one place—with your files and hardware still in your hands.
A control panel that makes sense
Start, stop, configure, and monitor servers without digging through folders or terminal commands.
Mods and plugins, one click away
Find compatible Modrinth content for your exact loader and Minecraft version.
Your worlds stay yours
Backups and server files stay on the computer where your world actually runs.
Play locally or go public
Start on your home network, then add port forwarding, DNS, or a relay when you are ready.
Use the hardware you already own
Choose the memory limit and keep control of your CPU, storage, and performance.
Local by design
The helper API stays on 127.0.0.1. A public website never needs direct access to your computer.
Choose how you play
From vanilla survival to a modded world.
Select server software and a compatible Minecraft release. Public access is a separate setup; Minekube Connect supports specific server and proxy platforms.
Plugin servers
Paper, Purpur, Folia, Spigot, and related software for communities built around server plugins.
Modded servers
Fabric, Quilt, Forge, NeoForge, and selected hybrid platforms for worlds that need mods.
Bedrock players
Add Geyser and Floodgate on supported Java server types, or use Minekube's managed Bedrock route where its connector supports your setup.
Getting started
Three steps to your first local server.
Install the helper
The Windows setup prepares the local helper your browser uses to manage servers.
Choose your server
Select software and a Minecraft version. PixelServers installs it on your PC.
Start and invite
Join on your network first. Set up a supported public connection when you are ready.
Before you download
A few practical answers.
Understand what runs on your machine and what you need to keep it online.
01Is PixelServers really free?
Yes. PixelServers provides the control panel and helper without a monthly hosting fee. Your own computer runs the Minecraft server, so you still provide the computer, electricity, storage, and internet connection.
02Does PixelServers support Paper, Purpur, and Folia?
Yes. Paper, Purpur, and Folia are supported as plugin-focused server software. The panel filters plugin content for these loaders instead of showing mod results.
03Can Bedrock players join a Java server?
Yes, on supported Paper-family servers. PixelServers can install the Geyser and Floodgate bridges for Java-Bedrock crossplay. This is crossplay for a Java server, not a native Bedrock Dedicated Server.
04Does my computer have to stay on?
Yes. Because your computer runs the world, it must be powered on, connected to the internet, and running the PixelServers helper while friends play.
05Is PixelServers the same as Pixelmon or another PixelServers website?
No. PixelServers at pixelservers.net is a self-hosted Minecraft server control panel. It is not Pixelmon, a Minecraft server network, or an unrelated company using a similar name.
YOUR SERVER, YOUR MACHINE
Download PixelServers Start with the PC you already have.
Download the helper, choose your server software, and keep your world close.