How do I move my server to MC-Node?

Want to switch from another host to MC-Node? You can, without losing your world, plugins or player data. In this article we explain how to move your server step by step. If you get stuck, we will help you migrate for free via a ticket.

Step 1: Download your files from your old host

1. First stop your server at your old host, so no more data is written while you download.
2. Connect to your server via SFTP or your old host's file manager.
3. Download all files you want to keep. For a Minecraft server, think of the world, world_nether and world_the_end folders, the plugins or mods folder and files such as server.properties.
4. In doubt? Just download everything. You can always delete files later.

After downloading, check that the files are complete. A half-downloaded world folder often leads to corrupt chunks.

Step 2: Order your server at MC-Node

Order the package that fits your server on our website. Our servers run on fast NVMe storage and come with PletX DDoS protection as standard. After ordering, you will receive your login details for the panel at panel.mc-node.net by e-mail. To learn how to create and configure your server next, read How do I create a server?.

Step 3: Upload your files via SFTP

1. Log in at panel.mc-node.net and open your server.
2. Go to Settings and note the SFTP credentials under SFTP Details.
3. Connect with an SFTP client such as FileZilla. Need help? See How do I use SFTP?.
4. Stop your new server using the Stop button in the panel.
5. Upload the downloaded files and overwrite the existing files where needed. For uploading just a world, we have a separate article: How do you upload a world?.
6. Start your server via Start and check the console for error messages.

Step 4: Transfer your settings

After the first start, check the following points:

• Does the server version (for example Paper, Forge or Fabric) match what you used at your old host?
• Is the server running on the same Java version as before, if your game requires it?
• Are settings such as the whitelist, ops and gamerules still correct? These are usually stored in files such as server.properties, whitelist.json and ops.json, which you copied over in step 3.

Step 5: Inform your players and update your DNS

Your server has a new IP address at MC-Node. Share it with your players, or better: use your own domain name. Already using a (sub)domain such as play.yourdomain.com? Then update the DNS record at your domain provider to the new IP address and the new port. Keep in mind that DNS changes can take up to 24 hours to propagate everywhere. Leave your old server online for a while (or put up a notice), so players don't miss the move.

Free help with your migration

Can't figure it out yourself, or would you like us to handle the move for you? Open a ticket with our support department. We will help you transfer your server free of charge.