Take Control: How to Change Your Hosted Minecraft Server's Name

Wednesday, January 25, 2023

As a Minecraft server owner, having control over your server's name is crucial for branding, identity, and attracting players. Whether you're starting a new server or rebranding an existing one, being able to change your hosted Minecraft server's name allows you to create a unique and memorable experience for your community. In this article, we will explore the steps you need to take to change your hosted Minecraft server's name and help you take control of your server's identity.

1. Access Your Server's Configuration Files:

   To change your Minecraft server's name, you'll need to access the server's configuration files. These files contain important settings and properties that define how your server operates. Depending on your hosting provider, you can usually access these files through a control panel or via FTP (File Transfer Protocol).

2. Locate the Server Properties File:

   The server properties file is where you can modify various settings of your Minecraft server, including its name. Look for a file named "server.properties" or a similar name in your server's directory. This file contains key-value pairs that define server properties.

3. Open the Server Properties File:

   Using a text editor or the file manager provided by your hosting provider, open the server properties file. You may need to download the file locally, edit it, and then upload it back to the server directory. Ensure you make a backup of the original file before making any changes.

4. Locate the "Server Name" Property:

   Within the server properties file, locate the "server-name" or "motd" (Message of the Day) property. This property determines the name displayed for your Minecraft server in server lists and when players connect.

5. Edit the Server Name Property:

   To change your server's name, modify the value assigned to the "server-name" or "motd" property. Replace the existing name with your desired server name. Be mindful of any character limitations or formatting requirements imposed by the server properties file. You can include special characters, colors, or formatting codes to make your server name stand out.

6. Save and Apply Changes:

   Once you've edited the server properties file to reflect your new server name, save the file and exit the text editor or file manager. If you downloaded the file locally, upload it back to the server's directory, replacing the original file. Confirm that the changes have been successfully applied.

7. Restart Your Minecraft Server:

   To ensure the changes take effect, restart your Minecraft server. Depending on your hosting provider, you may be able to restart the server through the control panel or by issuing a command through the console. Allow the server to fully restart before checking if the new server name is displayed correctly.

8. Verify the Server Name Change:

   To confirm that the server name change has been successful, check server lists or have a friend connect to the server and verify that the new name is displayed correctly. It may take a few moments for the updated server name to propagate to server lists, so be patient during this process.

9. Promote Your New Server Name:

   With your new server name in place, take the opportunity to promote it within the Minecraft community. Update your server's website, server listing descriptions, or any other platforms where you advertise your server. Announce the name change to your existing player base and engage with the community to generate excitement around the rebranded server.

10. Maintain Consistency and Identity:

    Once you've changed your server's name, strive to maintain consistency in your branding and server identity. Use the new server name consistently in all communications, server announcements, and social media presence. Establish a clear vision for your server's identity and ensure that it aligns with the new name.

Changing your hosted Minecraft server's name gives you the power to take control of your server's identity and create a unique experience for your community. By accessing your server's configuration files, locating the server properties file, editing the server name property, saving and applying changes, restarting the server, and verifying the server name change, you can successfully change your server's name and promote your rebranded identity. So, seize the opportunity, unleash your creativity, and make your server's name reflect the unique and captivating world you've created for your Minecraft community.