Unlimited Adventures: Raspberry Pi as a Bedrock Server Host for Minecraft

31st Aug 2022

Minecraft, the beloved sandbox game, has captured the hearts of millions of players worldwide with its endless possibilities and adventures. While joining existing servers is exciting, hosting your own Minecraft Bedrock server opens up a world of unlimited creativity and customization. If you're looking to set up a dedicated server for Minecraft Bedrock Edition, using a Raspberry Pi as a hosting solution is a cost-effective and versatile option. In this article, we will explore how you can transform your Raspberry Pi into a Bedrock server host, allowing you to embark on unlimited adventures in the Minecraft universe.

Why Choose a Raspberry Pi for Bedrock Server Hosting?The Raspberry Pi, a small and affordable single-board computer, offers a range of benefits for hosting a Bedrock server:

1. Cost-Effective Solution: Raspberry Pi boards are affordable compared to dedicated server hardware, making them a budget-friendly option for hosting your own Minecraft server.

2. Energy-Efficient: Raspberry Pi consumes minimal power, allowing you to run your server 24/7 without incurring high electricity costs.

3. Compact Size: The compact size of the Raspberry Pi makes it easy to set up and maintain, requiring minimal space and reducing clutter.

4. Versatility: Raspberry Pi boards are versatile and can be used for various projects beyond Minecraft server hosting.

Requirements:

Before setting up your Raspberry Pi as a Bedrock server host, ensure you have the following:

1. Raspberry Pi: Select a Raspberry Pi model that suits your needs. The Raspberry Pi 4 offers better performance, but older models can also work.

2. Power Supply: Use an appropriate power supply for your Raspberry Pi to ensure stable operation.

3. MicroSD Card: Obtain a microSD card with sufficient storage capacity (at least 16GB) to install the necessary software and store Minecraft server files.

4. Ethernet Connection: Connect your Raspberry Pi to your router using an Ethernet cable for reliable network connectivity.

5. Minecraft Bedrock Edition: Purchase and install Minecraft Bedrock Edition on the devices you and your friends will be using to connect to the server.

Setting Up Your Raspberry Pi as a Bedrock Server Host:

Follow these steps to set up your Raspberry Pi as a Bedrock server host:

1. Install Raspberry Pi OS: Download the latest version of Raspberry Pi OS and install it on your microSD card. The official Raspberry Pi Imager tool simplifies this process.

2. Update the System: After installing Raspberry Pi OS, update the system by opening a terminal and running the following commands:

   • sudo apt update
   • sudo apt upgrade

3. Configure Network Settings: Connect your Raspberry Pi to your router using an Ethernet cable. Ensure your Raspberry Pi has a static IP address or set up port forwarding on your router for external connections.

4. Install Java: Bedrock servers require Java to run. Install Java on your Raspberry Pi by running the following command:

   sudo apt install default-jdk

5. Download and Install Bedrock Server Software: Visit the official Minecraft website to download the Bedrock Dedicated Server software for Linux. Extract the downloaded file and follow the instructions to install the server software on your Raspberry Pi.

6. Customize Server Settings: Configure the server settings by editing the server.properties file in the server installation directory. Customize settings such as server name, game mode, difficulty level, and more to suit your preferences.

7. Start the Server: Open a terminal, navigate to the server installation directory, and run the following command to start the Bedrock server:

   ./bedrock_server

8. Connect to Your Server: Launch Minecraft Bedrock Edition on your device, go to the Play menu, and select "Servers." Add a new server using your Raspberry Pi's IP address, and you'll be able to join your self-hosted Bedrock server.

Tips for a Smooth Bedrock Server Experience:

To ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience with your Raspberry Pi as a Bedrock server host, consider the following tips:

1. Keep Your Raspberry Pi Cool: Raspberry Pi boards can generate heat during operation. Use a heatsink, fan, or a case with proper ventilation to prevent overheating and ensure stable performance.

2. Allocate Sufficient Memory: Adjust the server.properties file to allocate an appropriate amount of memory for your server. This helps optimize performance, especially if you have multiple players or resource-intensive mods installed.

3. Regularly Backup Your Server: Create backups of your Minecraft server files to avoid data loss. Regularly back up your world files, server settings, and any customizations you have made.

4. Stay Updated: Check for updates to the Bedrock Dedicated Server software and install them when available. Updates may include bug fixes, security patches, and performance improvements.

5. Join the Minecraft Community: Engage with the Minecraft community to share experiences, seek advice, and discover new ideas for your Bedrock server. Platforms like Reddit, Discord, and Minecraft forums are great places to connect with other server hosts and players.

Unlock Unlimited Adventures with Your Raspberry Pi:

Hosting your own Bedrock server on a Raspberry Pi empowers you to create a customized Minecraft experience and embark on unlimited adventures with friends and fellow players. By following the steps outlined above and optimizing your server's performance, you can enjoy a stable and enjoyable multiplayer experience. Explore new realms, collaborate on ambitious builds, and unleash your creativity with the endless possibilities of Minecraft Bedrock Edition on your self-hosted Raspberry Pi server.