How to Set Up a Minecraft Server Network With Velocity

When a Minecraft server grows into multiple game modes (survival, minigames, creative) under one address, you need a proxy. The proxy sits in front of your servers and lets players move between them seamlessly. Here is how it works.

What a proxy does

A proxy like Velocity (the modern standard) or the older BungeeCord is the front door. Players connect to the proxy address, and it routes them to whichever backend server they should be on. It lets you run separate servers that feel like one network.

Velocity vs BungeeCord

Velocity is the recommended modern choice: it is faster, more secure, and actively developed. BungeeCord still works and has broad plugin support, but for a new network, start with Velocity.

1. Set up the proxy

Download Velocity, run it once to generate its config, then edit velocity.toml: set the bind address, the servers list (each backend server name and address), and the default server players land on.

2. Configure the backend servers

Each backend server must be told to accept connections from the proxy rather than directly from players. This is done through the proxy-forwarding settings and matching a secret between the proxy and each server.

3. Secure it properly

This is critical: backend servers should run in offline mode behind the proxy, which means they must be firewalled so players cannot connect to them directly. If a backend is exposed, anyone can join as any username. Only the proxy should be reachable from the internet.

4. Add network plugins

Proxy plugins handle things like cross-server chat, player counts, and sending players between servers with a command. Install these on the proxy to make the network feel unified.

The short version

The proxy is your single entry point; backend servers sit behind it, firewalled and forwarding-enabled. Use Velocity, match the forwarding secret, and lock down direct access. Then players roam your whole network from one address.

Build a network worth joining

Every server in your network needs content. Find plugins, minigames, and complete setups on ModForge to fill out your network, all protected purchases.