Server/Requirements

Server installation and configuration
For a full tutorial on setting up a Minecraft server, please read the installation and configuration guide.

Server requirements

 * Note that these requirements only apply to the Survival version of Minecraft, and not to the Classic version.
 * Requirements may change depending on the server software, such as using Bukkit and/or mods.
 * Java 6 JRE or newer is required for Minecraft Servers!
 * Only the JRE version is required, however, Java JDK will still work.
 * The more memory that your server has, the better. It is recommended to have at least 3 GB. That way, plenty of RAM is left over for the operating system, and you have the possibility of allocating more to the Minecraft server.
 * Minecraft servers, as of 1.1.0, can use multiple cores, so now they will not sit idle.
 * You can use CanIHostAMinecraftServer to get a rough idea how many players you can host.

Here is a simple recommendation to help you get started and/or help decide which hosting option is best for you:

One thing I would like to say is always that befroe obtaining more computer memory, have a look at the machine into which it can be installed. If your machine is actually running Windows XP, for instance, the actual memory limit is 3.25GB. Installing more than this would easily constitute any waste. Make sure one's mother board can handle your upgrade volume, as well. Interesting blog post.

Running a Dedicated type Server
Please see Dedicated Server Requirements for more information.

Running a Server-grade Server
Please see Server-Grade Server Requirements for more information.