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Introduction

Getting started Networking Backups Automations

On Linux? Read the Linux notes Updated Oct 30, 2026

Overview

Coalstack is a desktop app for running and managing your own Minecraft server, Java Edition or Bedrock Edition. It runs on Windows and Linux (see the Linux notes), and handles everything from downloading the server software to keeping backups, all from one window on your own computer. You don't need a hosting provider, a VPS, or any command-line experience.

The server process runs on your machine. Coalstack picks the Java version your server needs and downloads it from Adoptium (Eclipse Temurin) the first time. Each version is stored once in the app's data folder and shared by every server that needs it. If that download fails, Coalstack falls back to whatever Java is already on your PATH. Your server files stay on your computer unless you turn on an optional remote or cloud feature.

Coalstack talks to coalstack.net for account and license checks, update checks, and optional features you choose to turn on, such as remote access.

Getting Started

Download the installer from the Download page and run it. Coalstack installs like any other Windows app.

The first time you open the app, Coalstack takes you straight into the New Server flow. After that, it remembers your last-used server and opens directly to it; if that folder is missing, you land on the My Servers page instead. From there you have two ways to add a server:

Add a server I already have: point Coalstack at a folder that already contains a Minecraft server (a server.jar file, an accepted EULA, and the usual server directory layout). Coalstack will detect its platform and version automatically and pick up right where you left off.
Create a new server: the Setup Wizard starts with an edition toggle, Java or Bedrock. For Java it walks you through picking a platform (Vanilla, Paper, Fabric, Quilt, Forge, or NeoForge), a Minecraft version, a starting template, a name, and where the server files go. You agree to the Minecraft EULA with a checkbox, and then Coalstack downloads the correct server jar, creates the folder, writes the EULA file, and writes an initial server.properties file. For Bedrock, see Bedrock Edition. The server is ready to start immediately afterward.

You can add as many servers as you want. Each one is an independent folder on disk with its own world, configuration, mods, and settings. Switch between them from the server switcher in the title bar (click the server name and status pill next to the Start/Stop button), or from the My Servers page.