1. Join Discord and accept the rules

Join the NodeArc Discord and complete the rules step. The server creation controls become available after onboarding. Discord is used to guide the beta order and connect it to the correct customer account.

2. Open the free server flow

Use the Create Free Server button in Start Here or run the public order command. The bot asks you to choose server software and a compatible Minecraft version before opening the account and server form.

3. Choose the right software

  • Paper: the safest default for most small plugin servers.
  • Purpur: Paper-compatible with more gameplay configuration.
  • Fabric: for Fabric mods and lightweight modded setups.
  • Folia: for software specifically compatible with region-based multithreading.

For most first-time users, Paper is the recommended choice. Read the software comparison before selecting Folia or Fabric.

4. Enter account and server details

Provide the requested panel username and email. Use an email you control because it identifies your panel account. If you later use Discord OAuth on the panel, the OAuth email must match the email entered during creation for automatic account linking.

5. Pick your custom address

Choose only the first part of your address. For example, entering myworld creates myworld.nodearc.net. Use letters, numbers and hyphens, and avoid names that impersonate NodeArc, staff or other brands.

Your first address is selected during creation. Later changes require Arc Credits or a paid change when payments become available.

6. Open the panel and start the server

After provisioning finishes, open the Pelican panel. Use the Console page to start the server and watch its startup logs. The first boot can take longer while the software downloads files and generates a world.

7. Join from Minecraft Java Edition

Open Multiplayer, choose Add Server and enter your custom name.nodearc.net address. If the server is sleeping, a real join attempt starts it and may briefly place you on the NodeArc waiting screen until the backend is ready.

Minecraft server-list pings do not wake sleeping servers. This prevents scanners and bots from consuming free capacity; a real player join is required.

If something does not work

Check the public status section first. For account, startup or connection problems, open a Discord support ticket and include your server address plus the relevant console error. Never post your password, API keys or recovery codes.

Create your first world

The Free Beta includes 1.5 GB RAM, 5 GB disk and a custom address, with no credit card required.

Join NodeArc Discord