Getting Started
System Requirements
| Item | Minimum |
|---|---|
| OS | Windows 10+, macOS 10.15+, Linux (glibc 2.31+) |
| Java | Java 8+ (for running Minecraft server) |
| RAM | 4GB+ recommended (Minecraft server needs additional memory) |
Windows Version Note
Sea Lantern uses the WebView2 runtime and requires Windows 10 (version 1909+) or Windows 11. Windows 7/8/8.1 users can check the FAQ - Legacy Windows for alternative solutions.
1. Download and Install
Go to the Download page to get the installer for your operating system. Double-click to install.
Ubuntu users can also install via PPA (see the Linux section on the download page).
Arch Linux users can install via AUR (see the Linux section on the download page).
2. Get a Server JAR
You can create a new server from a Minecraft server JAR, or import an existing server directory/startup script. If you don't have a core file yet, check the Server JAR Guide to download one.
Recommendation
For most players, we recommend Paper — great performance and a rich plugin ecosystem.
3. Configure Java
After launching Sea Lantern, the app will automatically detect Java runtimes installed on your system. If no suitable version is found, use the built-in Java downloader to install one with a single click.
INFO
Different Minecraft versions require different Java versions:
- 1.16.5 and below → Java 8 or Java 11
- 1.17 ~ 1.20.4 → Java 17
- 1.20.5+ → Java 21
4. Create a Server
- Click the "Create Server" button
- Choose an import source (JAR, existing server, or startup script)
- Finish startup-mode detection in the wizard; customize startup command if needed
- Select the Java runtime version (or install one-click if missing)
- Name your server and confirm parameters
- Accept the Minecraft EULA on first launch
5. Start the Server
Click the start button and wait for the console to display Done! — your server is now running. You can connect to it in Minecraft using localhost.
Next, check out the Tutorial for more detailed operations, or browse the Features Overview to see everything Sea Lantern offers.