Server crashing

If your server keeps crashing or randomly restarting, here's how to identify the cause and fix it.

Step 1: Check the crash log

The console usually shows why the server crashed. Look for:

1. 1. Go to the Console tab
2. 2. Scroll up to find the last messages before the crash
3. 3. Look for lines with ERROR, FATAL, or Exception

Also check the /logs folder for crash reports or latest.log.

Common crash causes

Out of memory (OOM)

The most common cause. Signs of an OOM crash:

• - Console shows "OutOfMemoryError" or "Java heap space"
• - RAM usage was at 95-100% before crash
• - Server becomes slow before crashing

Fixes:

• - Upgrade to a higher RAM plan
• - Remove memory-hungry mods
• - Reduce view distance
• - Limit world size

Buggy mod or plugin

Mods with bugs can crash your server:

• - Check if crashes started after adding a new mod
• - Look for mod names in the error message
• - Try disabling recently added mods one by one
• - Update mods to latest versions

Corrupted world data

World corruption can cause crashes when loading certain areas:

• - Crashes happen when players enter specific locations
• - Console mentions "chunk" or "region" errors

Fixes:

• - Restore from a backup before the corruption
• - Use region fixer tools (Minecraft) to repair chunks
• - Delete the corrupted chunk files manually

Entity overload

Too many entities (mobs, items, vehicles) can crash servers:

• - Install entity limiting plugins (ClearLag for Minecraft)
• - Reduce mob spawn limits in config
• - Remove excessive item drops periodically

Incompatible versions

Mods built for different game versions cause crashes:

• - Verify all mods support your exact game version
• - Don't mix Forge and Fabric mods
• - Check mod dependencies are all installed

Preventing future crashes

• Keep backups: Automatic backups save you when corruption happens
• Update regularly: Keep mods and server software up to date
• Monitor resources: Watch RAM usage and upgrade before hitting limits
• Test mods first: Add mods one at a time and test before adding more
• Scheduled restarts: Daily restarts prevent memory buildup